Japanese Covered Bridge

Japanese Covered Bridge

One of the Hoi An Ancient Town's most emblematic structures, the Japanese Covered Bridge dates back to the early 17th century, when it was first constructed by the Japanese community as a link to the Chinese quarters of Hoi An. Much of the original ornamental wood carvings remain preserved, and so do the sculptures of two dogs and two monkeys on either end of the bridge. Although the exact reasons for this particular animal selection isn't clearly identifiable, some explanations include the sacred status of the two in Japanese culture and birth years of Japanese emperors predominantly falling on either that of dog or monkey. Inside the bridge there is a tiny temple of the northern god Tran Vo Bac De, who is believed to hold powers of controlling weather. The Japanese Covered Bridge is included on the list of attractions one can visit on an Ancient Town Entry Ticket.