Hoi An, Vietnam: Preserving Unique Streetscapes with Cooperation from Japan

Vietnam

Cau Lai Vien, the “Japanese Bridge,” is a symbol of the world-heritage-listed Hoi An old city. Since its restoration, the surrounding area has been packed with tourists. (© Tomoda Hiromichi)

Interior of the “Japanese Bridge,” showing its timber structure. (© Tomoda Hiromichi)

Repaired pillars and beams are reassembled during work on the “Japanese Bridge.” (© JICA)

Restoration on the bridge’s roof sections included intricate decorative paintwork. (© JICA)

Hoi An in 1997, with the entrance to the Japanese Bridge visible in the background. (© Tomoda Hiromichi)

Central Hoi An in 1995, when there were far fewer tourists. (© Tomoda Hiromichi)

Tourists enjoy shopping and dining in Hoi An’s historical precinct. (© Tomoda Hiromichi)

Birdseye view of Hoi An’s world heritage listed precinct. (© Pixta)

Hoi An lit by colorful lanterns at night. (© Tomoda Hiromichi)

Japan’s Prime Minister Abe Shinzō (second from right in bottom row) and Vietnam’s Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc (third from right) at the November 2017 unveiling of a replica Japanese trade ship presented as a gift from Nagasaki Prefecture. (© Jiji)