If you’re looking for a peaceful place that shows the real countryside of Hue, the Thanh Toan Tile-roofed Bridge Hue is one spot you should not miss. As someone born and raised here, I’ve visited this small village bridge many times, yet it always feels special. The quiet canal, the old tiled roof, and the warm smiles of the locals create a charm you can feel the moment you arrive. This bridge may look simple at first, but it carries centuries of history and stories.
Let me guide you through why this hidden gem is worth a visit and how to enjoy it in the best way.
Finding the Thanh Toan Tile-roofed Bridge (Cau Ngoi)
Where Exactly is the Historic Bridge Located?
First, let’s talk about the location. The Thanh Toan Bridge sits in the peaceful countryside of Thuy Thanh Commune, part of Huong Thuy Town in Thua Thien – Hue Province. It is only about 8 kilometers to the southeast of Hue City.
While the huge Hue Citadel represents royal history, this bridge reflects the calm and simple lifestyle of rural farmers. The contrast between the two makes your trip even more interesting.
Getting There: Directions and Transportation Options
By Motorbike
Many visitors choose a motorbike because it’s flexible and budget-friendly. From Hue City center, go along To Huu Street, then turn right onto Vo Nguyen Giap Street. Continue until you reach the intersection of Vo Nguyen Giap and Hoang Quoc Viet Streets, then turn left. Follow the road and it will take you straight to Thuy Thanh Commune.
If you don’t have a bike, rentals in Hue cost about 100,000–150,000 VND/day. Just remember to bring your license, wear a helmet, and check the fuel before you go.
By Car
If you travel with family or in a group, a car is the most comfortable option. The 8 km distance takes only about 15 minutes, and you won’t have to worry about the weather. Taxis cost around 150,000–200,000 VND/way, while private cars usually range from 500,000–800,000 VND/day, depending on the size.
For easy traveling, you can book a private car with Hura Cars—a convenient and reliable option. Contact us through WhatsApp: +84 93-4899-900.
By Bicycle
A bicycle is perfect if you want a peaceful countryside experience. It takes about 30–40 minutes from downtown Hue, passing through quiet village roads and shady green paths. Bike rentals cost 50,000–80,000 VND/day, and many travelers—especially foreigners—love this slow and scenic journey.
Here’s a useful local tip: if you need directions, ask villagers for “Cau Ngoi” instead of Thanh Toan Bridge. That’s the name locals use most often, and they will guide you right away.
A Look Inside the “House Above Bridge” Architecture
Uniqueness of the “Thuong gia, ha kieu” Style
The architecture here is the main reason people love this bridge. The Thanh Toan tile-roofed Bridge is built in the “House above bridge” style, known in Vietnamese as “Thuong gia, ha kieu”. This design is extremely rare. It looks somewhat like Hoi An’s Japanese Covered Bridge, so visitors sometimes compare them.
But the two are quite different—Hoi An’s version sits in a busy town, while Thanh Toan Bridge is completely quiet and rural. It is an excellent example of old Vietnamese tile-roofed bridges.
Materials and Structure of the Ancient Design
The bridge is made from simple and strong materials: wood, bricks, and ceramic. The pillars, floor, and handrails are built from plain round wood. There are no fancy carvings like those in imperial buildings, but the simplicity gives it a peaceful charm. The roof is covered with glazed brown tiles, which you often see in old Vietnamese homes.
On top of the roof, you’ll find the classic symbol of two dragons flanking the sun. The current bridge is 16.85m long and 4.63m wide, slightly changed from the original size after several repairs over the years.
The Seven Compartments and Their Function
The bridge has seven compartments, similar to small rooms. The six outer ones are places where visitors can sit, rest, and enjoy the view of the village. The most important compartment is the one in the center.
The central compartment contains an altar for Mrs. Dao, and it is kept locked out of respect. This makes the bridge not only a walkway but also a National Relic and a spiritual place.
The Inspiring History of Mrs. Tran Thi Dao and the Bridge’s Origin
Why the Bridge was built
The story behind this bridge is full of kindness. In the 16th century, twelve ancestors settled in the area and created Thanh Toan Village.
Later, in the 18th century, a canal divided the village, making everyday farming difficult. Seeing this, Mrs. Tran Thi Dao, a generous woman from the Tran family, decided to help. She donated money to build the bridge and also supported other charity work. The bridge was completed in 1776 thanks to her help.
Royal Honors and Commemoration
Her kindness was soon recognized. In the same year the bridge was finished, King Le Hien Tong reduced taxes for the villagers of Thanh Toan to honor her good deeds. Many years later, in 1925, King Khai Dinh honored the bridge again and allowed it to become a place where Mrs. Dao is worshipped. Her story is a great reminder of the power of generosity.
Lifespan and Restoration Efforts
Since being built in 1776, the Thanh Toan Bridge has gone through many events. Located in Central Vietnam, it has faced storms, floods, and war damage. Because of that, it has been repaired several times—in 1847, 1906, 1956, and most importantly in 1971. These restorations help keep this rare Vietnamese tile-roofed bridge safe for future generations.
Experiencing the Rural Life: Festivals and Activities Around the Bridge
Major Festivals and Cultural Events
This is where you’ll feel the lively energy of the village. If you visit at the right time, you can join special cultural events:
- After Tet (Spring): The Bai Choi Festival takes place on the third day of the first lunar month.
- Mid-Autumn Festival (Autumn): A big festival is held to honor Mrs. Tran Thi Dao.
During the Hue Festival, which happens every two years, the village hosts a procession to open “The festive day on the countryside market.” These events bring the whole area to life.
Folk Games and Performance Arts
The canal under the Thanh Toan Bridge becomes a spot for many traditional games. I always take friends here because the activities are fun and very local.
On the canal: boat racing, water-puppet dancing, fish-catching On the temple yard: tug-of-war, human chess, blind man’s buff
The Bai Choi Festival mixes folk music, simple plays, and entertaining games. It is a UNESCO-recognized heritage, so you really should try it at least once.
Sample activity: Visiting during Mid-Autumn Festival, you’ll see people gathering around the bridge, playing games, lighting incense, and enjoying local food. The atmosphere is unforgettable.
Exploring the Surrounding Village and Market
The bridge sits in a peaceful village filled with charm. There is a giant banyan tree over a hundred years old, along with a river wharf and a temple—classic images of Vietnamese countryside life.
Right next to the bridge is the lively Traditional market, which gives you a close look at local daily life.
Huracars’ Local Tip: Try the small food stalls in the market. They may look simple, but they serve delicious rustic dishes made with fresh local ingredients. I always recommend the local rice pancake!
You can also try:
- Rowing a boat along the slow canals Riding a bicycle through green rice fields
- Joining a local family to make Banh Chung, Banh Tet, or a conical hat
It’s a great way to understand the village’s culture. If you want to explore history in Hue and the city’s best sights, spend at least half a day here.
Thanh Toan Bridge in Context of Hue’s Ancient Architecture
Other Significant Landmarks in the Area
The Bridge stands out even more because of the traditional buildings nearby:
- The village hall
- Several pagodas and shrines
- Old family worship houses
The bridge shares architecture with Hoi An’s Cau Pagoda, but its quiet countryside setting makes it special in its own way.
The Bridge’s Role in Preserving Nguyen Dynasty Culture
The bridge is a strong reminder of Nguyen Dynasty architecture. The use of wood and glazed tiles shows the typical construction style of that time. With the central compartment containing the altar for Mrs. Dao, the bridge still plays an important cultural and spiritual role for the community.
We hope this local guide helps you see why the Thanh Toan Bridge in Hue is worth a visit. When you’re there, take a moment to sit on the wooden platform, look out at the green rice fields, and appreciate the legacy of Mrs. Tran Thi Dao. It’s a peaceful experience many visitors love, and I think you will, too.