The Hoi An Bridge Pagoda is one of the most unique and distinctive architectural structures in the ancient town of Hoi An, Quang Nam province. Built in the 17th century by Japanese merchants, the bridge pagoda is a symbol of the cultural intersection between Vietnam, Japan, and China. The bridge pagoda also testifies to the rich and diverse history of Hoi An, a bustling and wealthy port in the past.
The bridge pagoda is about 18 meters long, spanning a small branch of the Thu Bon River, connecting the two sides of Nguyen Thi Minh Khai and Tran Phu streets. The bridge pagoda has a yin-yang tile roof, curved in the shape of a “C”. The pagoda part is in the middle of the bridge, facing the riverbank, with a large sign carved with the three Han characters “Lai Vien Kieu”, meaning “Bridge to welcome guests from afar”. This is the name that Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu gave to the bridge when he visited Hoi An in 1719. The two ends of the bridge have wooden animal statues, one end is a dog statue, the other end is a monkey statue, symbolizing the two gods who control the monster Namazu in Japanese legend.
The bridge pagoda is a national historical and cultural relic, preserved and restored many times. The bridge pagoda is also an attractive tourist destination, attracting thousands of domestic and foreign visitors to visit, admire and capture beautiful moments. The bridge pagoda is not only a beautiful architectural work, but also a symbol of the soul of Hoi An town, dyed with time and quietness.
