Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An, Da Nang City! Discover its rich history, unique architecture, ticket prices, and sustainable tours for a UNESCO adventure. Book with Legend Travel Group today!
The Japanese Covered Bridge, also known as Chùa Cầu or Lai Vien Kieu, is an iconic symbol of Hoi An Ancient Town, now Minh An Ward in Da Nang City, following the merger of Quang Nam Province. Built in the 1590s by Japanese merchants, this UNESCO World Heritage Site spans a small canal of the Thu Bon River, connecting Tran Phu and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai streets. Celebrated for its elegant fusion of Japanese, Vietnamese, and Chinese architectural styles, the 18-meter bridge features a pagoda dedicated to Tran Vo Bac De, the Northern Deity, and draws thousands of Da Nang’s 8 million annual visitors. Featured on Vietnam’s 20,000 VND note, it embodies Hoi An’s multicultural trading legacy. With sustainable tourism initiatives preserving its heritage, the bridge offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to experience this cultural landmark, bookable via links throughout this guide. Step into Hoi An’s history—reserve your tour now
Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Hoi An tours feature low-impact transport like bicycles and electric shuttles, guided by local experts who share the bridge’s historical and architectural significance. We support Minh An’s artisans and align with Da Nang City’s “Green Heritage” initiative to preserve UNESCO sites. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless visit. Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge responsibly with our curated tours—book via the links on this page!
Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, integrating Hoi An as Minh An Ward and the Japanese Covered Bridge as part of this UNESCO-protected area. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but Hoi An’s cultural heritage remains vibrant. Da Nang City enhances sustainable tourism with cycling paths, electric buses, and a VND500 billion flood mitigation project (2023), ensuring access to the bridge, though November floods may affect surrounding streets.
Constructed around 1593 by Japanese merchants to link their enclave with the Chinese quarter across a Hoai River canal, the Japanese Covered Bridge reflects Hoi An’s role as a bustling 16th–19th-century trading port. In 1653, a T-shaped pagoda was added, dedicated to Tran Vo Bac De, believed to protect against floods and storms, not Buddha, as is common in pagodas. Local legend ties the bridge to the Namazu myth—a giant catfish causing earthquakes—with the bridge symbolizing a “sword” to subdue it, fostering harmony across Japan, Vietnam, and India. Named Lai Vien Kieu (“bridge for faraway guests”) by Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu in 1719, it embodies Hoi An’s welcoming ethos. Recognized as a National Historical-Cultural Monument in 1990, the bridge underwent seven major renovations (1763, 1815, 1875, 1917, 1962, 1986, 1996), with the latest from 2022 to 2024 (reopened August 3, 2024), reinforcing its structure while preserving its heritage, though some debate modernized tiles. Its image on the 20,000 VND note underscores its status as Hoi An’s cultural emblem.
The Japanese Covered Bridge, 18 meters long and 3 meters wide, is a stunning blend of architectural styles:
Japanese Influence: The curved wooden frame, vermilion paint, and dog and monkey statues at the ends reflect Japanese aesthetics. These statues, sacred in Japanese culture, mark the construction period (Year of the Monkey to Year of the Dog, lunar zodiac) and honor emperors born in those years.
Vietnamese Features: The yin-yang tiled roof, a hallmark of Vietnamese architecture, crowns the bridge and pagoda, with dragon motifs carved in classic Vietnamese style.
Chinese Elements: Intricate trusses, Chinese inscriptions, and porcelain bowls capping roof tiles highlight Chinese influence, evolving through renovations. The bridge’s arched silhouette over the Hoai River, vibrant paint, and intricate carvings create a photogenic landmark. The pagoda, centrally positioned, houses a wooden altar to Tran Vo Bac De, with two narrow corridors of seven wooden spans for rest, blending function and beauty. The 2024 restoration retained its charm, though modern tiles sparked discussion for deviating from the original Japanese design.
Visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge requires an Hoi An Old Town entry ticket, supporting UNESCO preservation:
Foreign Tourists (Adults and Children Over 15): $6 (120,000 VND), covering 5 of 22 attractions (e.g., bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall).
Vietnamese Tourists (Adults and Children Over 15): $3.20 (80,000 VND).
Children (Under 16): Free.
Seniors (Over 60) and Veterans: Discounted per Vietnamese law.
Hoi An Residents: Free with ID.
Where to Buy: Ticket booths at Old Town entrances (e.g., Tran Phu, Nguyen Thi Minh Khai) or included in Legend Travel Group tours. Online booking via Viator or GetYourGuide offers convenience.
Validity: Ticket valid for your entire stay; retain for re-entry.
Access Hours: Bridge open 24/7 within Old Town’s pedestrian zone; pagoda interior 8:00 AM–6:00 PM daily, including holidays and Tet.
Best Times: Early morning (8:00–10:00 AM) for cooler weather (24–28°C or 75.2–82.4°F) and fewer crowds; evening (5:00–6:00 PM) for sunset and lantern-lit ambiance, especially during Full Moon Lantern Festival (14th lunar day monthly).
Notes: Prices stable but may adjust slightly in peak seasons (March–August). Carry exact VND; booths may not accept cards. Pagoda may close during heavy rain; pedestrian zone restricted 8:30 AM–11:00 AM, 3:00 PM–9:30 PM, requiring ticket checks.
Where is the Pagoda Bridge?Located at the intersection of Tran Phu and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai streets in Minh An Ward, the bridge is 4 km from An Bang Beach and 28 km from Da Nang International Airport (DAD). Sustainable transport options include:
Walking (Recommended): Free; 5–10 minutes from Old Town center (e.g., Hoi An Market, 200 m). Zero-emission; explore lantern-lit streets. Follow Tran Phu Street; use Maps.me for navigation.
Bicycle: $1–$2/day (25,000–50,000 VND); 2–5 minutes. Eco-friendly; park outside pedestrian zones ($0.25–$0.60 or 6,250–15,000 VND). Rent from Hoi An Bike Rental (+84 961 172 423). Included in our Hoi An Heritage Cycling Tour ($55–$75).
Cyclo: $2–$5/trip (50,000–125,000 VND); 5–10 minutes. Supports local drivers; book at Tran Phu Street.
Public Bus (LK02): $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND) to Hoi An Bus Station; 10-minute walk to bridge. Every 15–20 minutes (6:00 AM–6:00 PM); use DanaBus app. Low-emission.
Taxi/Grab: $12–$15 (300,000–375,000 VND); Xanh SM electric taxis $13–$16 (325,000–400,000 VND). Book via Grab or Mai Linh (+84 236 352 5252). Xanh SM cuts CO2 by 30%.
Guided Tours: Group tours $10–$45 (250,000–1,125,000 VND); private tours $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND). Includes eco-transfers; book via Legend Travel Group.
Sustainable Tip: Use buses or electric taxis; combine with Old Town walking for minimal impact.
Notes: Old Town is pedestrianized (8:30 AM–11:00 AM, 3:00 PM–9:30 PM); park outside zones. November floods may affect access; check weather via Vietnam News.
How was the Pagoda Bridge built?Overview: Admire the bridge’s 18-meter structure, featuring a yin-yang tiled roof, dragon carvings, and dog/monkey statues, showcasing Japanese, Vietnamese, and Chinese influences. The pagoda’s Tran Vo Bac De altar adds spiritual significance.
Cost: Included in Old Town ticket ($6 or 120,000 VND).
Time Needed: 15–30 minutes.
Sustainable Tips: Use digital QR guides (2023) to reduce paper waste; avoid touching carvings.
Highlights: “A cultural fusion masterpiece!” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Photograph from Hoai River banks at sunset; included in our Hoi An Heritage Walking Tour ($55–$75).
Overview: Enter the T-shaped pagoda to view the Tran Vo Bac De statue and pray for prosperity. Chinese inscriptions and wooden corridors highlight its multicultural heritage.
Cost: Included in Old Town ticket ($6 or 120,000 VND).
Time Needed: 10–15 minutes.
Sustainable Tips: Maintain silence; support local artisans by buying nearby crafts.
Highlights: “Serene and spiritual!” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).
Tip: Dress modestly (covered shoulders, knees); visit early to avoid crowds.
Overview: See the bridge aglow during the monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival, with river boats and street performances creating a magical atmosphere.
Cost: Included in Old Town ticket ($6 or 120,000 VND); boat rides $6–$8/boat (150,000–200,000 VND, up to 4 people).
Time Needed: 1–2 hours (6:00 PM–10:00 PM).
Sustainable Tips: Use eco-friendly boats; avoid plastic waste.
Highlights: “Lanterns made it unforgettable!” (Tripadvisor, 4.8/5 stars).
Tip: Book boats via Klook; check lunar calendar. Included in our Hoi An Night Glow Tour ($55–$75).
Overview: Stroll Tran Phu and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai streets, visiting Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, Tan Ky House, or Hoi An Market (within 200 m, included in Old Town ticket). Savor cao lầu ($1–$2.50 or 25,000–62,500 VND) at Thanh Cao Lầu or bánh mì ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) at Bánh Mì Phượng.
Cost: Free; dining $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND); tailoring $20–$100 (500,000–2,500,000 VND).
Time Needed: 1–2 hours.
Sustainable Tips: Support local vendors; choose cafes with biodegradable packaging.
Highlights: “Old Town’s charm enhances the bridge!” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).
Tip: Try lemongrass kumquat tea ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) at riverside stalls.
Special things about the Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An Ancient TownThe Japanese Covered Bridge is a cornerstone of Hoi An’s sustainable tourism efforts:
Conservation: The 2022–2024 restoration (reopened August 3, 2024) reinforced the bridge’s structure, with Japan contributing expertise, though modern tiles sparked aesthetic debate. UNESCO and local funds support ongoing preservation.
Eco-Friendly Practices: 70% of nearby vendors use biodegradable packaging, per Vietnam’s 2022 anti-plastic campaign. Cycling paths and electric shuttles reduce emissions.
Community Support: Ticket revenue funds 100+ local artisans and preservation via the Hoi An Center for Cultural Heritage Management.
2026–2028 Trends: Plans include solar-powered lighting, vegan dining options, and expanded QR-coded guides to minimize paper waste, catering to growing Asian tourism (Chinese, Korean markets).
Challenges: Modern restoration elements (e.g., tiles) remain controversial; November floods require vigilance. Book early morning tours to avoid crowds.
Legend Travel Group’s tours align with these efforts, using eco-transfers and supporting local economies, ensuring a low-impact visit.
Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Klook (+84 938 987 654), especially for Full Moon Lantern Festival or peak seasons (March–August). Check lunar calendar for festival dates.
Dress Code: Casual attire; modest clothing (covered shoulders, knees) for pagoda; comfortable shoes for cobbled streets.
Pack Smart: Reusable water bottle, small VND for vendors, sunscreen ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND), camera (no flash in pagoda).
Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$120/day in Hoi An (budget: $20–$50; mid-range: $50–$80; luxury: $80–$120). Old Town ticket $6; dining $1–$5; tours $10–$120.
Stay Safe: Secure valuables during festivals; avoid slippery paths in November floods; check weather via Vietnam News.
Sustainability: Support eco-vendors; use bikes ($1–$2/day) or walk; avoid plastic waste with reusable bags.
Cultural Respect: Maintain silence in the pagoda; don’t touch statues; tip guides ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND).
Navigation: Allow 30–60 minutes at the bridge; combine with Hoi An Market (300 m) or An Bang Beach (4 km) for a half-day itinerary. Offline maps (e.g., Maps.me) essential.
Our sustainable tours offer immersive experiences at the Japanese Covered Bridge, tailored for eco-conscious travelers:
Hoi An Heritage Walking Tour ($55–$75/person): Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, Tan Ky House, Full Moon Lantern Festival. Includes Old Town ticket ($6), eco-transfers, and cao lầu tasting.
Hoi An Night Glow Tour ($55–$75/person): Bridge at sunset, lantern festival, Thu Bon River boat ride, night market. Includes eco-transfers and snacks.
Hoi An Heritage Cycling Tour ($60–$80/person): Bridge, Tra Que Village, An Bang Beach, banh mi tasting. Includes bike rentals, eco-transfers, and lunch.
Hoi An & My Son Cultural Tour ($75–$95/person): Bridge, My Son Sanctuary, Thanh Ha Pottery Village. Includes tickets ($6–$7.50), eco-transfers, and meals.
Central Vietnam Explorer ($350–$550/person, 3–4 days): Bridge, Hoi An, Da Nang, homestays ($15–$50/night), Cu Lao Cham. Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees ($6), and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page
The Japanese Covered Bridge in Da Nang City’s Minh An Ward is a 16th-century architectural marvel, blending Japanese, Vietnamese, and Chinese styles with profound cultural significance. With a $6 Old Town ticket, 24/7 access, and a 2024 restoration, it offers a captivating journey through Hoi An’s trading history, from the Namazu myth to Tran Vo Bac De worship. Its presence on the 20,000 VND note highlights its iconic status. Supported by sustainable practices like eco-tours and biodegradable packaging, the bridge remains Hoi An’s cultural heart. By joining Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours, you support Minh An’s artisans, preserve UNESCO heritage, and create unforgettable memories. Don’t miss this Hoi An treasure—browse our featured tours and book your cultural adventure today!
Ready to discover the Japanese Covered Bridge’s timeless allure? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and explore Hoi An’s heritage sustainably!
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