Japanese Bridge Hoi An 2025: All You Need To Know

It’s impossible to visit Hoi An without hearing about the iconic Japanese Bridge – more than just a landmark, it’s a living story carved from centuries of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese heritage. Nestled in a quiet corner of the Old Town, this covered bridge stands as a timeless witness to the town’s multicultural soul.

In this guide, journey with La Siesta to uncover what makes the Japanese Bridge so special – from its deep-rooted legends to practical tips for experiencing it in 2025.

How to Get to the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An

The Japanese Bridge, known locally as Chua Cau, is tucked in the heart of Hoi An Old Town. Just a 5-minute ride from La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa, it’s easily accessible on foot, by complimentary bicycle, scooter, or taxi.

• Address: Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
• Entrance Ticket: Free to view from the outside. To cross the bridge and access nearby attractions, a Hoi An Old Town ticket is required (~120,000 VND – ~$5).
• Opening Hours: 7:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m.
• Best Times to Visit: Early morning for golden light and quiet, or at dusk when lanterns flicker to life.

Read more: Best time to visit Hoi An in 2025?

History of the Hoi An Japanese Bridge in Reverse

• • Reopened in August 2024, the Japanese Bridge took center stage at the 20th Hoi An-Japan Cultural Exchange Festival. While its restored form sparked discussion – “too new” or true to history? – it remains a beloved icon.

• Latest Restoration (2022-2024)

• • A meticulous VND 20+ billion project with termite-resistant materials and structural upgrades.
  • Used a rare open dissection method, letting visitors witness preservation in action.
• Restoration Timeline: 1763, 1817, 1865, 1915, 1962, 1986, 1996.
• Cultural Symbolism: Also called Lai Viễn Kiều, or “Bridge Welcoming Guests From Afar,” the bridge symbolizes Hoi An’s role as a multicultural port city.
• 1653 Temple Addition: A small inner shrine honors Tran Vo Bac De, a Taoist guardian believed to protect the town from floods and misfortune.
• Built in 1593: Japanese merchants built the bridge to connect the Japanese and Chinese quarters across the stream, a peaceful gesture of unity and commerce.

What Makes the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An Special?

The Guardians: Dog and Monkey Statues at the Bridge

Bookending the bridge are stone figures of a dog and a monkey, believed to mark the years of construction and completion, or perhaps the birth years of influential emperors.

The Curved Roof and Wooden Beams

The bridge’s tiled roof, dark lacquered beams, and intricate carvings reflect Japanese aesthetics blended with Vietnamese craftsmanship.

Featured on the Vietnamese Đồng Banknote

Japanese Bridge Hoi An appears on the 20,000 VND note, a testament to its national significance.

*Here’s a fun fact: Not many people – even locals – actually realize it! It’s pretty amazing to think that this peaceful little bridge in the Old Town is quietly printed into something we use every day.

What to Experience at the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An

1. Architecture

Admire the harmonious fusion of cultures in the bridge’s architecture – a Japanese wooden frame, Chinese motifs, and Vietnamese design principles all balanced under a gracefully curved roof.

2. Inner Temple

Step quietly into the small inner sanctuary dedicated to Tran Vo Bac De, the Taoist guardian of the North, where locals still offer prayers for peace and protection from floods.

3. Praying

Bring a moment of mindfulness as you light incense and offer a silent wish – a tradition that connects you to centuries of spiritual practice within these ancient walls.

4. River Views

Stand midway across the bridge and take in the calm flow of the Hoai River below, where the reflection of lanterns dances softly on the water at sunset.

5. Check-in Photos

Capture the essence of Hoi An with a photo beneath the bridge’s signature red lanterns – a glowing symbol of culture, history, and timeless beauty.

6. Lantern Tour

Board a small sampan in the evening and watch the Japanese Bridge shimmer beneath lantern light, offering a magical perspective few travelers ever forget.

7. Folklore

Hear the tale of Namazu, the mythical catfish believed to cause earthquakes – and how the bridge, built to pin its tail, symbolizes Hoi An’s spiritual resilience.

8. Hoi An Old Town Streets

After visiting the bridge, stroll into narrow streets lined with silk lanterns, handcrafted goods, and the lingering aroma of “cao lau” – a feast for all senses.

How to Experience the Japanese Bridge Like a Local

• Avoid peak hours (10 a.m. – 3 p.m.) for a peaceful walk.
• Bring your camera for hidden carvings and lantern-lit angles.
• Join a nighttime lantern boat tour for a dreamlike view.
• Explore nearby temples, museums, and the market for deeper cultural immersion.

Stay Near the Japanese Bridge at La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa

Just a short drive from Chua Cau – Japanese Bridge, La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa offers more than a place to stay – it extends the soul of Hoi An itself.

La Siesta provides a serene environment that helps guests escape city stress with all-inclusive services. It serves travelers seeking reconnection with family, nature, and themselves. It offers a luxury green retreat that mirrors the calm of Hoi An’s most treasured landmarks.

After your bridge-side journey through centuries, return to lush gardens, rejuvenating pools, and heartfelt hospitality.

Let La Siesta be your sanctuary of serenity. Book your Hoi An retreat today.