Discover the Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An, Da Nang City! Explore its location, rich history, ticket prices, and sustainable tours for a UNESCO adventure. Book with Legend Travel Group today!
Start your Hoi An Travel with serene beautyThe Japanese Covered Bridge, also known as Chùa Cầu or Lai Vien Kieu, is an iconic landmark of Hoi An Ancient Town, now Minh An Ward in Da Nang City, following the merger of Quang Nam Province. Spanning a small canal of the Thu Bon River at the intersection of Tran Phu and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai streets, this UNESCO World Heritage Site was built in the 1590s by Japanese merchants. Renowned 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 attracts thousands of Da Nang’s 8 million annual visitors. Featured on Vietnam’s 20,000 VND note, it symbolizes Hoi An’s vibrant trading history. With sustainable tourism initiatives preserving its legacy, the bridge offers a captivating cultural experience for first-time travelers. Legend Travel Group, a leading sustainable tour operator, curates eco-friendly tours to explore this historic gem, bookable via links throughout this guide. Contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or Email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com to plan your visit. Discover Hoi An’s heritage—reserve your tour now!
Legend Travel Group is a premier local tour operator in Vietnam and Southeast Asia, founded in 1994 to deliver transformative travel experiences. Welcoming 15,000 travelers annually, we prioritize sustainability and cultural immersion, using low-impact transport like bicycles and electric shuttles, guided by local experts who share the bridge’s rich history. Our commitment to Da Nang City’s “Green Heritage” initiative supports Minh An’s artisans and preserves UNESCO sites. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Book your eco-tour via WhatsApp: +84825862222 or Email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com for an unforgettable adventure
Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, integrating Hoi An as Minh An Ward and the Japanese Covered Bridge into this UNESCO-protected area. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but Hoi An’s cultural significance remains robust. Da Nang City enhances sustainable tourism with cycling infrastructure, electric buses, and a VND500 billion flood mitigation project (2023), ensuring bridge access, though November floods may affect nearby streets.
Capture the timeless beauty of Hoi An’s cultural treasure (Source: Source: Internet)The Japanese Covered Bridge is centrally located in Hoi An’s Old Town, Minh An Ward, Da Nang City, at the intersection of Tran Phu and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai streets. Spanning 18 meters across a Hoai River canal, a tributary of the Thu Bon River, it connects the historic Japanese and Chinese quarters. The bridge’s tiled roof shelters it from rain and sun, making it a picturesque landmark, just 200 meters from Hoi An Market, 4 km from An Bang Beach, and 28 km southeast of Da Nang’s city center. Its accessibility by foot, bicycle, or cyclo makes it a must-visit for exploring Hoi An’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognized in 1999 for its 16th–19th-century trading port legacy.
Built around 1593 by Japanese merchants to facilitate trade between their enclave and the Chinese quarter, the bridge reflects Hoi An’s role as a thriving international port. In 1653, a T-shaped pagoda was added, dedicated to Tran Vo Bac De, a deity protecting against floods, not Buddha, as is typical 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 in 1719 by Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu, it embodies Hoi An’s welcoming spirit. Recognized as a National Historical-Cultural Monument in 1990, the bridge underwent seven renovations (1763, 1815, 1875, 1917, 1962, 1986, 1996), with the latest from 2022 to 2024 (reopened August 3, 2024), supported by Japanese expertise, though modern tiles sparked aesthetic debate. Its image on the 20,000 VND note underscores its cultural prominence.
The Japanese Covered Bridge showcases a harmonious blend of styles:
Japanese Influence: The curved wooden frame, vermilion paint, and dog and monkey statues at the ends reflect Japanese aesthetics, marking the construction period (Year of the Monkey to Year of the Dog) and honoring emperors.
Vietnamese Elements: The yin-yang tiled roof and dragon carvings are quintessential Vietnamese architectural motifs.
Chinese Accents: Intricate trusses, Chinese inscriptions, and porcelain bowls on roof tiles highlight Chinese influence. The bridge’s arched design, 18 meters long and 3 meters wide, creates a photogenic silhouette over the Hoai River. The central pagoda, with a Tran Vo Bac De altar and two narrow corridors of seven wooden spans, balances function and beauty. The 2024 restoration preserved its charm, though some critique modern tiles for deviating from the original Japanese design.
Dive into the historic charm of Hoi An Travel (Source: Source: Internet)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, Quan Cong Temple).
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.
Notes: Prices stable but may adjust slightly in peak seasons (March–August). Carry exact VND; booths may not accept cards.
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: Pagoda may close during heavy rain; pedestrian zone restricted 8:30 AM–11:00 AM, 3:00 PM–9:30 PM, requiring ticket checks. Combat overtourism by visiting early.
Photograph the storied allure of Hoi An’s heritage (Source: Source: Internet)The bridge’s central location in Minh An Ward makes it easily accessible:
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 to reduce emissions.
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.
Overview: Explore 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 stunning cultural fusion!” (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 enchanting!” (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 bánh mì ($1–$2 or 25,000–50,000 VND) at Bánh Mì Phượng or cao lầu ($1–$2.50 or 25,000–62,500 VND) at Thanh Cao Lầu.
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.
The Japanese Covered Bridge is a cornerstone of Hoi An’s sustainable tourism efforts:
Conservation: The 2022–2024 restoration (reopened August 3, 2024), with Japanese collaboration, reinforced the structure, though modern tiles sparked aesthetic debate. UNESCO and local funds support maintenance.
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 Asian tourism growth (Chinese, Korean markets).
Challenges: Modern restoration tiles remain controversial; November floods require vigilance; overtourism strains the site. Book early morning tours to reduce impact.
Legend Travel Group’s tours align with these efforts, using eco-transfers and supporting local economies for a low-impact visit.
Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group, Klook, or GetYourGuide, especially for festivals or peak seasons (March–August). Check lunar calendar for Full Moon Lantern 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, Quan Cong Temple, 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 cultural treasure, blending Japanese, Vietnamese, and Chinese architecture with profound historical significance. Located at Tran Phu and Nguyen Thi Minh Khai streets, it’s easily accessible with a $6 Old Town ticket, offering a glimpse into Hoi An’s trading legacy, from the Namazu myth to its 20,000 VND note fame. With sustainable practices like eco-tours and biodegradable packaging, the bridge remains Hoi An’s enduring symbol. Legend Travel Group’s Hoi An Tours guide you through this UNESCO heritage site, ensuring a sustainable Hoi An Travel experience that supports Minh An’s artisans and preserves cultural legacy. Don’t miss this Hoi An must-visit—browse our featured tours and book your cultural adventure today!
Ready to explore the Japanese Covered Bridge’s timeless legacy? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Hoi An’s history sustainably!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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