[Vietnam] What is Lai Vien Kieu (Japanese Covered Bridge)? Admission Ticket & Its Connection to Japan

In the port town of Hoi An, located in central Vietnam, there is a stone bridge called Lai Vien Kieu (Japanese Covered Bridge) that has historical ties to Japan. The bridge still strongly reflects the legacy of trade between China and Japan, and the nostalgic scenery of Hoi An, where the bridge stands, is even registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site.
It is known as the most famous bridge in Vietnam and is a popular spot for commemorative photos. This article looks back on the history of Lai Vien Kieu, deeply connected to Japan, and also summarizes how to access it and nearby attractions.

What is Lai Vien Kieu?

Lai Vien Kieu is a wooden bridge crossing the old town of Hoi An, an ancient city in Vietnam. It is also known by another name: “Japanese Bridge.” Its history dates back over 400 years to the Azuchi-Momoyama period of Japan, when it was built by Japanese residents living in Hoi An at the time. During the era of the red-seal ship trade, many Japanese settled in Hoi An, which flourished as a trading city that also attracted many Chinese. Lai Vien Kieu was constructed as a bridge connecting the Japanese and Chinese quarters in Hoi An and is considered a symbol of Vietnam–Japan friendship.
The architecture incorporates elements of traditional Chinese design. Bricks are used for the supporting legs of the bridge, while the pillars and walls are painted a deep red reminiscent of Chinese temples and palaces. At the center of the bridge are temple decorations and statues, with Vietnamese-style roof tiles and blue porcelain plates adorning the structure. The elaborate interior decorations are a major attraction.
The exterior alone is striking, but be sure to step inside and observe it closely. At night, the bridge is illuminated, creating a mystical atmosphere different from its strict appearance during the day. The fantastical image of Lai Vien Kieu reflected on the Thu Bon River is a sight to behold.

Access Information

Hoi An, where Lai Vien Kieu is located in the old town, lies in central Vietnam, about 30 km south of the city of Da Nang. Hoi An does not have its own airport; the nearest airport is Da Nang International Airport. Since there is no train from the airport, you’ll need to use a taxi or car. It takes about 40 minutes by car from the airport to Hoi An. While there is a bus from central Da Nang to Hoi An, no direct buses connect the airport to Hoi An. Since Lai Vien Kieu is about 2 km from Hoi An center, taking a taxi from the airport is recommended. Transportation costs range from around 3,000 to 4,000 yen.
Being a coastal town, the area is dotted with beaches and resort hotels. When visiting Lai Vien Kieu, staying at a nearby resort hotel is one way to enjoy Hoi An to the fullest.

Admission Fee and Time Required

When visiting tourist facilities in Hoi An, it may be necessary to purchase an admission ticket in advance at a ticket counter. When passing through Lai Vien Kieu, you may be asked to present a ticket at the entrance, so buying it beforehand is a safe choice. The price is about 120,000 VND per set, though depending on the place and time, admission may sometimes be free.
The bridge is relatively short at around 20 meters, so if you’re just passing through, about 10 minutes is enough for sightseeing. There is no time limit for viewing the bridge, so if you want to take your time exploring the temple inside, that’s no problem. At the center of Lai Vien Kieu is a small temple called Cau Temple, where the deity Bắc Đế Trấn Vũ (a guardian deity, not Buddha) is worshipped. Since the city has historically suffered from floods and natural disasters, the temple is believed to protect the peaceful lives of the locals.
Lanterns are arranged around the altar, including some with the word “Hoi An” written in Japanese. There are also displays of historical photos of Lai Vien Kieu, making it a place where you can feel the deep connection between Japan and Vietnam.

Cau Temple

In the center of Lai Vien Bridge is a small temple called “Cau Temple.” It worships the deity Bac De Tran Vu rather than Buddha. It is believed that this deity was enshrined to protect the peaceful lives of the local people, as the town had once suffered from natural disasters such as floods.

Lanterns are decorated around the altar, and among them are lanterns with “Hoi An” written in Japanese. Inside, there are displays such as old photographs of Lai Vien Bridge, making the decorations a highlight that conveys a sense of cultural exchange with Japan

Recommended Photo Spots & Timing

To best capture the beauty of Lai Vien Kieu, it is recommended to photograph it from the riverside on the southern side rather than from inside the bridge. This allows you to include the entire bridge and the flowing river below, making it ideal for commemorative photos. There is no entrance fee for shooting from outside, but taking photos inside the bridge may require an admission fee.
The best time for photography is early in the morning, as the area gets crowded with tourists during the day, which might make it hard to get clear shots. If you prefer to take your time, aim to visit by around 8 AM. At night, the bridge is lit up in a colorful and beautiful display. If time allows, be sure to capture this scene in photos.

Other Tourist Spots Worth Visiting Together

Treat Hoi An

Located about a 3-minute walk from Lai Vien Kieu on Tran Phu Street in Hoi An, this Vietnamese restaurant offers a Japanese-translated menu, complete with dish descriptions, so even visitors unfamiliar with Vietnamese can choose their meals with ease.
A specialty of Hoi An, the "fried wonton" is served with a sweet and sour sauce that suits the Japanese palate. The restaurant also offers a variety of tropical smoothies and other dishes. The interior features yellow walls and wooden elements, creating a relaxing tropical atmosphere. It's a great spot for both sightseeing breaks and casual dining.

Art Spa

Located about a 5-minute walk from Lai Vien Kieu, this spa facility is near Hoi An’s old town. Hoi An is surprisingly known for its many spa options, offering authentic massages and spa treatments at reasonable prices.
Among them, Art Spa is especially convenient to access from Lai Vien Kieu. It’s situated just off a bustling tourist area, offering a peaceful and quiet retreat. The interior is stylishly Asian and clean, providing a luxurious and soothing experience. After walking around all day, stop by the spa to refresh and recharge.

◎ Joining a Tour is Also a Good Option

If you want to fully enjoy Lai Vien Kieu and the surrounding Hoi An old town efficiently, joining a tour is a great choice. Some tours even include airport transfers to Hoi An, making them ideal for first-time visitors.
Tour options are plentiful, ranging from walking tours of Hoi An to local dinner tours recommended by guides, and lantern-making experiences. It’s especially recommended for those who say, “I want to visit Lai Vien Kieu but I’m worried about finding good spots or restaurants.”