The Japanese Covered Bridge, or Chùa Cầu, links Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai Street with Trần Phú Street in Hoi An’s Old Town. Built by the Japanese community in the 17th century, it has a tiled roof, carved wooden details and a small shrine within the bridge. Its design brings together Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese influences. Look for the dog and monkey figures at either end, then return after dark to see coloured lights reflected on the water.
A link between Hoi An’s historic quarters
The Japanese Covered Bridge stands in Hoi An’s Old Town, connecting Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai Street and Trần Phú Street. Japanese residents built it to link their quarter with the Chinese neighbourhood across the water. The bridge is also known as Chùa Cầu, or the Bridge Pagoda.
Accounts place its construction in the 16th or 17th century, so the exact date is not consistent. The broad history is clear: it was built by the Japanese community and became part of the town’s network of streets and waterways.
Roof, carvings and shrine
The covered wooden structure has a tiled roof and decorative details shaped by several architectural traditions, including Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese influences. The dog and monkey figures at either end are among the details to look for as you approach.
A small shrine sits within the bridge. It is dedicated to the Taoist deity Tran Vo Bac De, associated with protection of the land and good fortune. The shrine gives the crossing a religious as well as architectural significance.
A changing landmark
The bridge has undergone restoration over the years. One account records a restoration in 1986, after its archway was flattened to allow cars to use it. Its original character has since been preserved, and it remains one of the defining historic structures in Hoi An’s Old Town.
The bridge is a popular place to photograph, so the approach can be busy. Early morning is a practical choice if you want more room to look at the details. The surrounding streets also hold historic houses and assembly halls, making the bridge a useful point from which to continue a walk through the Old Town.
Seeing it after dark
In daylight, the roofline and woodwork are easier to examine. After dark, coloured lights illuminate the bridge and reflect on the water, changing the feel of the scene. Seeing it at both times gives you a closer look at its architecture as well as its place in the evening streetscape.
Preguntas frecuentes
Where is the Japanese Covered Bridge?
It is in Hoi An’s Old Town, linking Nguyễn Thị Minh Khai Street and Trần Phú Street.
When was the Japanese Covered Bridge built?
It was built by the Japanese community in the 17th century. Some accounts give an earlier date, so the precise year is not consistent.
What is inside the Japanese Covered Bridge?
A small shrine dedicated to the Taoist deity Tran Vo Bac De is inside the bridge.
