Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An: The Ultimate Visitor's Guide

Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An is Vietnam’s most photographed landmark, blending history, culture, and architecture. Reopened in August 2024, it remains a must-see spot included in the 120,000 VND Ancient Town ticket. In this guide, Herbal Spa shares the latest updates, entrance details, and tips to enjoy your visit to this iconic site in 2025.

I. What Is the Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An Vietnam?

The Japanese Bridge Hoi An, or Chùa Cầu, is an 18-meter covered bridge with a built-in Buddhist temple, showcasing a blend of Japanese design and Vietnamese craftsmanship. Built to protect the town from floods, it’s a must-see landmark, especially during the best time to visit Hoi An, from February to April, when the weather is most pleasant.

What Is the Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An Vietnam?

1. History of the Japanese Bridge Hoi An

Built in the early 1600s during Hoi An's golden trading era, the Japanese covered bridge hoi an vietnam connected the Japanese merchant quarter with the Chinese district across a small canal. Originally named Lai Viễn Kiều (Bridge from Far Away), it served as both infrastructure and symbol of international commerce between Japan and Vietnam.

History of the Japanese Bridge Hoi An

Essential Information:

• Address: Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An
• Operating Hours: Temple interior: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM daily | Exterior viewing: 24/7
• Status 2025: Fully operational after August 2024 renovation (no longer japanese covered bridge hoi an closed)
• Entry: Free exterior viewing | Temple access requires Ancient Town ticket

The bridge served as more than mere infrastructure, it represented the diplomatic and economic ties between Japan and Vietnam during a golden age of international commerce.

2. The Unique "Pagoda on a Bridge" Architecture

This extraordinary structure combines bridge and temple architecture featuring ornate wooden construction with traditional Vietnamese yin-yang roof tiles, a small Buddhist temple integrated within the bridge structure, and symbolic carvings representing protection and prosperity. The weather-resistant design was built to withstand monsoon seasons while honoring Tran Vo Bac De, the northern weather god.

The Unique "Pagoda on a Bridge" Architecture

II. How to Get to Japanese Bridge Hoi An

1. From Da Nang (Most Common Starting Point)

Distance: 30 kilometers (45-minute drive) Transportation Options:

• Private car/taxi: 400,000-600,000 VND ($16-25 USD)
• Grab ride: 350,000-500,000 VND ($14-20 USD)
• Tour bus: Usually included in Da Nang-Hoi An day tours
• Motorbike rental: 150,000-200,000 VND per day

Get to Japanese Bridge Hoi An from Da Nang

Taking a taxi allows you to conveniently explore famous attractions such as An Bang Beach, local specialty restaurants, night markets, and the ancient town. Especially if you’re looking to enjoy the fresh sea breeze and stroll along the soft white sands of An Bang Beach, a taxi offers a quick and flexible way to reach the coast from the town center in just 10–15 minutes.

2. Within Hoi An Ancient Town Navigation

The japanese covered bridge hoi an sits at the western end of the Ancient Town, perfectly positioned for exploring other attractions:

Walking distances to other sites:

• Japanese Covered Bridge to Hoi An Central Market: 200 meters (3-minute walk)
• To Quan Cong Temple: 150 meters (2-minute walk)
• To Thu Bon River waterfront: 100 meters (1-minute walk)
• To Tan Ky Old House: 300 meters (5-minute walk)

Within Hoi An Ancient Town Navigation

3. From Japanese Covered Bridge to Other Attractions

The bridge serves as an ideal starting point for your hoi an ancient town japanese covered bridge exploration:

• Cross the bridge to reach Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street 
• Head east toward Tran Phu Street for more historic houses
• Walk south to reach the riverside and boat tour departure points
• Continue north to explore local markets and street food areas

III. What Makes Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An Special? 3 Interesting Facts

1. Cultural Significance Features

Symbol of International Friendship The bridge represents one of history's earliest examples of international architectural collaboration. Japanese merchants, Vietnamese craftsmen, and Chinese traders all contributed to its design and cultural significance, making it a living symbol of multiculturalism.

What Makes Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An Special?

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2. Spiritual and Religious Importance

Active Place of Worship Unlike many tourist attractions, the japanese bridge in vietnam remains an active religious site. Local residents regularly light incense and pray to Tran Vo Bac De for protection from floods and natural disasters, maintaining centuries-old traditions.

 

3. Photography and Instagram Opportunities

Most Photographed Landmark in Vietnam The japanese covered bridge hoi an photos consistently rank among Southeast Asia's most shared travel images. The combination of ancient architecture, lantern lighting, and riverside setting creates perfect photography conditions throughout the day.

Best Photography Spots:

• Golden hour (6-7 AM): Soft morning light with fewer crowds
• Blue hour (7-8 PM): Magical lantern illumination
• Riverside angle: Capture reflections in the water below
• Interior temple shots: Traditional Vietnamese religious artifacts

IV. Top Tips for Visiting Japanese Bridge Hoi An 2025

Ticketing Strategy: Purchase your 120,000 VND Ancient Town ticket early morning to avoid crowds and maximize your 24-hour validity period. The ticket includes access to 5 historical sites, making the bridge visit excellent value.

Optimal Timing:

• Early morning (6-8 AM): Fewest crowds, best natural lighting
• Evening (6-8 PM): Beautiful lantern illumination, romantic atmosphere
• Avoid 10 AM-4 PM: Peak tour group hours

Current Information (2025): The bridge completed major renovations in August 2024, reopening with restored original beauty and enhanced structural integrity, though some visitors have noted brighter color schemes following the renovation.

Top Tips for Visiting Japanese Bridge Hoi An 2025

Japanese Covered Bridge entrance fee Details:

• Viewing from outside: Free
• Crossing and temple access: Requires 1 coupon from Ancient Town ticket
• Ticket offices: Open 9 AM - 5 PM daily
• Bridge viewing: Available 24/7 from exterior

V. 3 Things to Do in Japanese Bridge Hoi An

1. Bamboo Boat Ride at Night

Experience the japanese covered bridge hoi an from a unique perspective with evening bamboo boat tours along Thu Bon River. These traditional circular boats provide stunning views of the illuminated bridge while local guides share historical stories and legends.

Details:

• Duration: 30-45 minutes
• Cost: 150,000-200,000 VND per person
• Best time: 7-9 PM when lanterns create magical reflections
• Departure point: Thu Bon River waterfront, 100 meters from the bridge

2. Herbal Spa Hoi An

After exploring the Japanese Covered Bridge and wandering through the peaceful lanes of Hoi An Ancient Town, take time to unwind at Herbal Spa Hoi An. Just a short walk from the old quarter, this local favorite is known for its calm ambiance and attentive, professional service rooted in traditional Vietnamese healing practices.

Herbal Spa Hoi An

Among its most popular treatments are the Aroma – Anti Stress Massage, ideal for soothing the body with warm herbal oils, and the Four-Hand Massage, where two therapists work in perfect harmony to deliver deep relaxation. Whether you're seeking recovery after a long day of sightseeing or simply a moment of peace, Herbal Spa offers a truly rejuvenating experience.

Where is the japanese covered bridge in Hoi An

• Recommended spas near the bridge:
• Thuan Tinh Island Spa: Traditional herbal treatments
• Hoi An Silk Spa: Authentic Vietnamese massage
• La Spa Hoi An: Organic herbal therapy

3. Traditional Lantern Making Workshop

Learn the art behind Hoi An's famous silk lanterns at workshops near the where is the japanese covered bridge in hoi an. These hands-on experiences connect you with local artisans while creating personalized souvenirs.

VI. FAQ About Japanese Covered Bridge Hoi An Vietnam

1. Do You Need a Ticket for the Japanese Bridge Hoi An?

To view the bridge from outside, it is free. However, to walk across it and visit the temple inside, you must present a coupon from the Hoi An Ancient Town entrance ticket, which costs 120,000 VND (approximately $5 USD). This ticket provides access to 5 historical sites and remains valid for 24 hours.

2. Why Is It Called the Japanese Bridge?

It was built in the early 1600s by the Japanese merchant community living in Hoi An to connect with the Chinese quarter on the other side of a small canal. The Japanese community funded and supervised its construction, incorporating their architectural techniques with Vietnamese craftsmanship, earning it the name "Japanese Covered Bridge" or "Japanese Bridge Hoi An."

3. Can You Cross the Japanese Bridge at Night?

Yes, you can walk around and view the japanese covered bridge hoi an at night to see it beautifully illuminated by traditional lanterns. The exterior viewing is available 24/7 and provides the most magical photo opportunities. However, entry into the inner temple section follows specific hours and may require ticket validation during staffed periods.

Discover more:

► Coconut Village Hoi An: 2025 Guide to Basket Boat Tours & Prices

► Where to Exchange Money in Hoi An? 7 Best Rates in Old Town

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