Japanese Covered Bridge (Lai Viễn Kiều)
Chùa Cầu 来远桥 · Hội An Ancient Town, Vietnam
A covered bridge built by 16th-century Japanese merchants; the little temple on it is said to pin down the giant catfish that causes earthquakes.
Know before you go
- Don't climb or lean on the bridge's railings
- don't touch the deities or offerings
- don't hold long photo shoots in the middle of the bridge
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Stories & people
Stories & people
Legend
The bridge temple that pins down the giant catfish
Japanese folklore says a giant catfish (Namazu) lives underground and causes earthquakes whenever it thrashes. In 1653 Hội An's Japanese residents added a small temple to the covered bridge, said to be meant to pacify this catfish. The temple is guarded by a pair of monkey statues and a pair of dog statues — in Japanese folk tales, the monkey god and the dog god are the very deities who can subdue the giant catfish.
Culture
Culture & customs
Background
From the 15th to the 19th century Hội An was an important trading port in Southeast Asia, and in the 17th century many Chinese and Japanese merchants settled here. This roofed wooden bridge was built by the Japanese community in the late 16th century, linking the Japanese and Chinese quarters. In 1653 a small temple was added to its north side, so the Vietnamese call it the 'Bridge Pagoda' (Chùa Cầu). A pair of monkey statues and a pair of dog statues guard its two ends.
Local customs
- It is the symbol of the old town and also a small temple where locals worship
- keep quiet inside
Etiquette
Etiquette & taboos
Rules that apply here
Vietnam: don't take photos near military bases
- Put your camera away when you see a military area
- Taking photos near military bases
Travel near military bases is also restricted.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Vietnam travel advice
Vietnam: helmets are compulsory on motorbikes
- Riders and passengers must both wear helmets
- Riding or being a passenger without a helmet
- Drink-driving
Riding without a helmet is illegal; drink-driving can bring a fine or even prison, and after an accident you may be barred from leaving the country.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Vietnam travel advice
Vietnam: e-cigarettes are banned
- Leave your e-cigarette at home before you travel
- Bringing in or buying e-cigarettes
E-cigarettes and related products are banned.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Vietnam travel advice
Don’t DON'T
- Don't climb or lean on the bridge's railings
- don't touch the deities or offerings
- don't hold long photo shoots in the middle of the bridge
Locals appreciate DO
Hội An residents appreciate visitors who cross quietly in the early morning or evening when it's less crowded, and don't block the bridge for photos.
Plan your visit
Practical info
| Best time | Early morning or evening |
|---|---|
| Time needed | 30 minutes |
Travel tips
- Entry is with the Hội An old-town ticket, sold at booths around the town
- it's beautiful at night when the lanterns are lit, but also busiest
- combine on foot with the Fujian Assembly Hall and Tấn Ký House
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