Chùa Cầu — Attraction in Hội An

The Japanese Bridge, located in Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most fascinating cultural attractions in Vietnam. Built in the 17th century, this monument has witnessed many changes in the town. If you come to Hoi An, it is a must-visit.

The Japanese Bridge is called Chua Cau Bridge in Vietnamese. It was built by Japanese merchants to connect with the Chinese neighborhood. It was built for communication and connections and has a very important meaning.

The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An is considered a beautiful representation of the town’s long history. For centuries, this bridge has connected the past, present, and future.

In 1719, Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu visited Hoi An and inscribed the name “Lai Vien Kieu” in three characters at the entrance of the bridge.

This means “Lai Vien Kieu” in Vietnamese and “Bridge to Welcome Guests from Far Away” in English.

Also, because this tower was mainly built by the Japanese, it was named the "Japanese Bridge" or "Japanese Covered Bridge." Although it is commonly called the "Japanese Bridge," it is a unique combination of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese cultures in terms of building materials, design, patterns, and decorations.

On February 17, 1990, this bridge was designated as a national historic and cultural heritage. There are a dog and a monkey at the entrance and exit of the bridge, respectively. These two statues symbolize the guardian deities of the bridge, as they symbolize protection and safety in Japanese culture. It is also said that these two statues mean that the construction began in the Year of the Monkey and was completed in the Year of the Dog.

Various cafes and restaurants have been built on both sides of the street centered around the Japanese Bridge, utilizing old and quaint houses. The old cultural heritage of Hoi An (UNESCO World Heritage) and the appearance of the ancient city still remain along the street. There are many unique cafes and restaurants here. There are also many shops selling traditional specialties, handmade products, and souvenirs on the street. And there are various galleries of various genres gathered here. This street was also a place where trade between Vietnam and Japan was active in the 17th century. It is a place with many things to see, so I recommend you visit.

Unlike the daytime, the nighttime scenery is also...

The Chùa Cầu, or Japanese Covered Bridge, is undoubtedly one of Hoi An's most iconic landmarks and a masterpiece of cultural heritage. Visiting this historic bridge was a profound experience that allowed us to connect with the town’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Built in the late 16th century by the Japanese community residing in Hoi An, the bridge was constructed to link the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the town, symbolizing unity and cultural harmony. Its architectural beauty is both simple and elegant, showcasing a fusion of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences. The arched wooden structure, with its intricate carvings and tiled roof, stands as a testament to the craftsmanship and artistic traditions of the past.

A unique feature of Chùa Cầu is the small temple located at its center, dedicated to the deity Tran Vo Bac De, who is believed to protect the bridge and town from floods and other misfortunes. This spiritual element adds a layer of significance to the bridge, making it not just a functional structure but also a sacred space.

Chùa Cầu holds immense importance for Hoi An, both historically and culturally. It represents the town’s era of prosperity as a bustling international trading port and the harmonious coexistence of diverse communities. Over the centuries, it has become a symbol of resilience and unity, surviving the tests of time and remaining a central figure in the town’s identity.

Strolling across the bridge, we couldn’t help but admire its timeless beauty and the stories it embodies. It was a humbling reminder of the interconnectedness of cultures and the importance of preserving historical treasures. Visiting Chùa Cầu is a must for anyone exploring Hoi An, as it captures the essence of this UNESCO World Heritage...

Japanese Covered Bridge / Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An

The Japanese Covered Bridge, known locally as Chùa Cầu, is a historic landmark in Hoi An, Vietnam, with a rich history spanning over four centuries. Constructed in 1593 by Japanese merchants, the bridge was built to connect the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the town, symbolizing the harmonious relationship between these communities. In 1653, a small temple was added atop the bridge, dedicated to the weather deity Tran Vo Bac De, reflecting the cultural integration of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese influences over time.

Between December 2022 and July 2024, the bridge underwent significant restoration due to structural deterioration, including cracks in its foundations and pillars. The restoration project, funded by the Hoi An People's Committee with an investment exceeding VND 20 billion, aimed to preserve the bridge's architectural integrity. However, the initial repainting with brighter colors drew criticism from residents and tourists for not aligning with the bridge's historical aesthetic. In response, authorities ordered a second repainting to restore its traditional appearance.

Visitors can access the Japanese Covered Bridge via Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street in Hoi An's Ancient Town. While crossing the bridge is free, entry to the temple requires a ticket. The entrance fee is 150,000 VND for international visitors and 80,000 VND for Vietnamese visitors, which includes access to five monuments within the Ancient Town. It's advisable to retain your ticket throughout your visit, as it grants entry to multiple historical sites.

The Japanese Covered Bridge stands as a testament to Hoi An's multicultural heritage and remains a must-visit destination for those exploring the...