Discover Hoi An Japanese Bridge: Living Heart of Ancient town

The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An stands as an iconic symbol of Hoi An Ancient Town, serving as both a tourist attraction and a masterpiece of architecture. Hoi An Japanese Bridge significance is further recognized by its appearance on Viet Nam’s 20,000 VND banknote.

About Japanese Bridge in Hoi An

Located in Hoi An Ancient Town – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – the  Hoi An Japanese Bridge is one of Vietnam’s most captivating cultural attractions. Japanese Covered Bridge is built in the 17th century, this monument has witnessed countless changes in the town. When visiting Hoi An, you’ll find this landmark well worth your time.

The Japanese Covered Bridge (Cau Nhat Ban) in Hoi An is a famous historical landmark that connects Tran Phu Street with Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street. Here are some key details about this bridge

History of Japanese Bridge in Hoi An: The first bridge on this site was constructed in the 1590s. It was built by the Japanese community of Hoi An in order to link them with the Chinese quarters across the stream.

Construction of Japanese Covered Bridge

The bridge spans 18 meters, linking Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street (the Japanese quarter) on the west with Tran Phu Street (the Chinese quarter) on the east . It crosses the Hoai River – apart of Thu Bon River, evoking a serene and nostalgic atmosphere.

Constructed primarily of red lacquered wood with a stone base, the bridge—though commonly called “Japanese Covered Bridge”—is an ingenious blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architect. This fusion is evident in its materials, design, patterns, and decorations.

The bridge’s roof features yin and yang patterns, reflecting Vietnamese cultural motifs.

Visitors can relax on small corridors and benches lining both sides of the bridge, enjoying the fresh air. A thin wooden wall separates the bridge from the adjacent temple.

Japanese Bridge in Hoi An was built very solidly to withstand earthquakes. The ornamentation has remained largely faithful to the original Japanese design over the centuries.

The Japanese Covered Bridge is very solidly constructed; the original builders were concerned about the threat of earthquakes. Over the centuries the ornamentation has remained relatively faithful to the original Japanese de-sign. Its understatement contrasts greatly with the Vietnamese and Chinese penchant for wild decoration. The French flattened out the roadway to make it suitable for their motor vehicles, but the original arched shape was restored during major renovation work in 1986.

Names of the bridge

1. Chua Cau – Chùa Cầu

The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An has two prominent parts: the bridge and the temple. The temple was built on the north side of the bridge to worship Vo Quan Bac De to pray for peace and happiness.

The bridge is “Cầu” and the temple is “chùa” in Vietnamese. Vietnamese people often call Chùa Cầu by this name like the special structure of this bridge. If you cross the Japanese bridge, you need an entrance ticket to go inside the temple. It is a small space of about 15 square meters.

(Chua Cau: request admission Hoi An Old Town ticket).

2. Lai Viễn Kiều

The writing over its door is the name given to the bridge in 1719 to replace the name meaning Japanese Covered Bridge. However, the new name, Lai Vien Kieu (Bridge for Passersby from Afar), never quite caught on.

3. Japanese Covered Bridge

Today, the name “Japanese Covered Bridge” or “Japanese Bridge” is commonly used in English documents and tourist guides for better international understanding. This English name, reflecting Vietnam’s second most used language, aids recognition among Hoi An’s growing international visitors.

The bridge represents centuries of shared history and cultural exchange between Japan and Vietnam. It serves as a focal point for cultural events and diplomatic gatherings, celebrating its historical significance and promoting understanding between the two nations.

In recognition of this enduring bond, both Japan and Vietnam frequently organize and participate in various cultural events, ceremonies, and diplomatic gatherings in Hoi An. These activities, often centered around or featuring the Japanese Bridge, serve multiple purposes: they celebrate the historical significance of the structure, promote cultural understanding between the two nations, and reinforce the contemporary ties that continue to strengthen the Japan-Vietnam relationship. Through these collaborative efforts, the Japanese Bridge remains not just a historical artifact, but a living symbol of international friendship and cooperation.

A legend about building Hoi An Japanese Bridge

There’s a fascinating legend about the bridge being built on the weakest point of a monster called Cu, effectively killing it. The temple was built to pray for the monster’s soul.

According to legend, there once lived an enormous monster called Cu, who had its head in India, its tail in Japan and its body in Vietnam. Whenever the monster moved, terrible disasters such as floods and earthquakes befell Vietnam. This bridge was built on the monster’s weakest point and killed it, but the people of Hoi An took pity on the slain monster and built this temple to pray for its soul.

Symbolic guardians of Hoi An Japanese Bridge

The bridge entrances are guarded by pairs of monkeys and dogs, which are said to be significant in Japanese culture and possibly related to the years of the bridge’s construction.

The entrances of the bridge are guarded by a pair of monkeys on one side and a pair of dogs on the other. According to one story, these animals were popularly revered because many of Japan’s emperors were born in years of the dog and monkey. Another tale says that construction of the bridge started in the year of the monkey and was finished in the year of the dog.

The stelae, listing all the Vietnamese and Chinese contributors to a subsequent restoration of the bridge, are written in Nho Characters (Ancient Vietnamese characters) – the nom script had not yet become popular in these parts.

Historical record

Stelae listing Vietnamese and Chinese contributors to a restoration are written in chu nho (Chinese characters).

This bridge is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of the cultural exchange and history of Hoi An, blending Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences.

Restoration

• Over its 400-year history, the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An has undergone seven major renovations: in 1763, 1815, 1875, 1917, 1962, 1986, and 1996. These renovations involved minor adjustments to the roof, floor, and pillars.
• The Minh Huong Commune (Chinese Community), a local village, oversaw the first three renovations. During the French colonial period in 1917, the bridge was modified to accommodate motorized vehicles, changing its original pedestrian-only design.
• In 1962, the Quang Nam provincial government carried out further repairs. The bridge was then restored to its original pedestrian-only design in 1986. The renovations in 1986 and 1996 were considered the most extensive.
• Since the last renovation, the bridge has deteriorated due to frequent flooding in Hoi An City. Many supporting poles and beams have weakened, highlighting the urgent need for maintenance to prevent collapse.
• In recent years, the Quang Nam provincial government approved a preservation project costing nearly one million dollars. Work on this project began in early 2020, with the goal of ensuring the bridge’s long-term survival. As of 2024, the Hoi An Japanese Bridge has reopened for visitors. However, there are mixed opinions about its restoration, with some critics suggesting that the bridge now appears too new and lacks the flexibility and character of its original structure.

How to Get to Hoi An Japanese Covered Bridge

• Address: Hoi An Japanese Bridge connect Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street and Tran Phu Street:  https://maps.app.goo.gl/r4KAEAoKEtzAeEbA7
• Opening hours: 24 hours daily
• Tickets: request admission Hoi An Old Town ticket

The Japanese Covered Bridge is located at the western end of Hoi An Ancient Town. To reach the bridge, start at the Central Market and walk down Tran Phu Street. Along the way, you’ll find various cafes and restaurants where you can enjoy a refreshing drink or a delicious meal before sightseeing. At the end of the street, you’ll see the bridge’s entrance.

The Japanese Covered Bridge is easily accessible on foot or by bicycle within Hoi An’s Ancient Town. We also offer chauffeur services from Hue city or Hoi An. Book now and pay the driver directly. Transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An ancient town Transfer 1 way from Hue to Hoi An via Hai Van pass

Interesting Facts About the Japanese Covered Bridge

Before visiting the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An, consider these fascinating details to enhance your understanding of this cultural relic.

The Vietnamese Dong Bill Features the Japanese Bridge

The Japanese Bridge has become a symbol and soul of Hoi An Ancient Town. Its image graces the back of Vietnam’s 20,000 VND banknote, highlighting its significance to the Vietnamese people.

The Temple Doesn’t Worship Buddha

Unlike many temples in Vietnam, the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An doesn’t worship Buddha or Happy Budha. Instead, local people venerates Tran Vo Bac De, the northern deity of happiness, wealth, and health in Hoi An. As a result, Hoi An Japanese Bridge is both a popular tourist attraction and a religious site where locals pray and find peace.

Please read the article about Tran Vo Bac De to understand more about who he is.

Tips for Visitors to Japanese Bridge in Hoi An

• If you come Hoi An Ancient town between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m, it is quiet here, without motorbike and the crowed.
• Enjoy folk games and street performances in Old Town from 19:00 to 21:00 daily.
• Take a nighttime on a bamboo boat along Hoai River to experience the Ancient Town’s beautiful lights and romantic atmosphere.
• After visiting Hoi An Japanese Bridge, explore nearby attractions such as Hoi An tailor market, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, Quan Cong Temple, or Tan Ky Old House. These historical sites are also must-see landmarks in Hoi An City.