After a comprehensive two-year restoration, Hoi An's iconic Chua Cau (Japanese Bridge), a symbol of the ancient town in Quang Nam province, is set to reopen to visitors in early August, showcasing its revitalized structure.
The Japanese Bridge spans a small creek in Hoi An and was funded by Japanese merchants 400 years ago. This national cultural and historical monument has become the most renowned landmark of the ancient town. The image above shows Japanese Bridge before the restoration.
Due to the severe deterioration of Japanese Bridge, Hoi An authorities closed the site in December 2022 for a major renovation with a total budget of over 20 billion VND. After two years, the main sections of Japanese Bridge have been restored.
The project is now urgently completing auxiliary structures. Although not officially inaugurated, visitors currently cannot explore the inside of Japanese Bridge.
Inside the bridge, the restoration of the foundation, pillars, and other structures has been largely completed. The main components such as the foundation, pillars, and abutments have all been reinforced.
Japanese Bridge’s appearance has emerged after nearly two years of being covered for the major renovation. According to the Hoi An City People’s Committee, the structure will be inaugurated on August 2, coinciding with the 20th Hoi An-Japan Cultural Exchange event.
A close-up of the roof of Japanese Bridge after restoration shows intricate detailing.
The roof features yin-yang tiles with sophisticated decorative details on the ridge and eaves. Notably, blue glazed ceramics are inlaid on the roof.
The entrance to Japanese Bridge on Tran Phu Street is shown in the image. The stele and temple inside have been repainted.
The central pathway leads to the temple, with a sign above the entrance inscribed with the characters “Lai Vien Kieu.” Below the sign are two round door eyes, a distinctive architectural feature of Hoi An.
Despite being called a temple, Japanese Bridge does not worship Buddha but rather the deity Bac De Tran Vu, who is believed to control storms and floods, protect the land, and bring joy and happiness.
The motifs and decorations on the beams and roof trusses of Japanese Bridge remain intact.
Many visitors to Hoi An take the opportunity to stand outside and take photos with this globally recognized architectural marvel.Once Japanese Bridge’s restoration is complete and it reopens, visitors to Hoi An will have convenient access to explore the site, offering more experiences and contributing to the local tourism development.
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