All about the Japanese Bridge in Hoi An

Without question, the most famous Japanese bridge in all of Vietnam - if not all of Southeast Asia - is found in the historic riverside town of Hoi An. Constructed sometime in the early 1600s, the Hoi An Japanese Bridge is a symbol of the town and a beautiful reminder of a time long ago.

History of Japanese Bridge

The presence of a Japanese bridge in a Chinese-influenced Vietnamese town is no accident. Thanks to its close proximity to the South China Sea, Hoi An was an important trading port for Chinese, Dutch, Indian, and Japanese merchants up until the 17th century. The Japanese traders were the dominant force at the time; many of the old houses in Hoi An reflect their influence. Today, the Hoi An Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, drawing thousands of tourists who come to step back in time for a brief visit.

The Hoi An Japanese Bridge remains a symbol of the significant impact that the Japanese had in the region at that time. The bridge was originally constructed to connect the Japanese community with the Chinese quarter - separated by a small stream of water - as a symbolic gesture of peace. Although his work has been appreciated for centuries, the builder of the bridge still remains anonymous.

Roughly 40 years after the Hoi An Japanese Bridge was constructed, the Tokugawa Shogunate demanded that its overseas citizens – mostly traders sailing around the region – to go home, officially closing Japan to the rest of the world.

Shrines in the Japanese Bridge

The small shrine inside of the Hoi An Japanese Bridge pays tribute to the northern deity Tran Vo Bac De who reputedly controls the weather - an important thing considering the seafaring traditions and notoriously poor weather around Hoi An.

The reasoning for the conspicuous statues of a dog and a monkey on opposing sides of the bridge is disputed. Some local guides claim that construction of the Japanese bridge began in the year of the dog and was completed in the year of the monkey. Others say the two animals were chosen to guard the bridge because many Japanese emperors were born either in the year of the dog or monkey - lending them sacred significance.

Renovation of the Japanese Bridge

The Japanese bridge has been renovated a total of seven times over the centuries. The wooden sign at the entrance of the bridge was hung in the early 1700s, changing the name from "Japanese Covered Bridge" to "Bridge for Travelers from Afar". Previously, the bridge had changed names several times, from Lai Vien Kieu "Pagoda in Japan"; to Chua Cau "Covered Bridge"; to Cau Nhat Ban "Japanese Bridge".

During their colonial hegemony, the French removed thresholds and leveled the road across the bridge to support motorized vehicles during their colonization. The changes were later undone and the bridge pedestrianized again during major restoration in 1986.

As of 2016, an eighth renovation is urgently needed. The river water has eroded the bridge support's structural integrity, and the whole structure's location in the most flood-prone area of Hoi An Old Town makes it particularly vulnerable in typhoon season.“The foundations can still support the bridge and visitors under good weather,” the reports conclude. “However, many parts have cracks and decayed and may not be reliable under more extreme weather conditions.” The authorities plan to dismantle the Japanese Bridge for restoration and repair purposes before the structure completely breaks down in the next flood.

Visiting the Hoi An Japanese Bridge

The Hoi An Japanese Bridge crosses a small canal on the west end of the Old Town, connecting Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street to Tran Phu Street - the main thoroughfare along the river. Art galleries and cafes line both sides of the peaceful street beyond.Although anyone can photograph the bridge, crossing the Hoi An Japanese Bridge requires a coupon included in the entry fee for Hoi An's top 22 Old Town attractions.

See more: A day to experience the glorious Hoi An

Source: Internet

Traditional dishes in Qatar you must try

In Qatar, breakfast is usually a light meal that includes yoghurt, cheese, olives and coffee, while lunch is the main meal, with mezze followed by main courses such as lamb or chicken stews. As for dinner, it is usually a light snack, except during Ramadan or special occasions. Overall, the country’s local cuisine is varied, complete with international influences.

Saloona

Saloona is basically spicy meat and/or vegetable broth. It usually contains tomatoes, aubergine, carrots and potatoes. People eat it by itself or with rice.

Machboos

One of the most popular dishes in any Qatari home is machboos, or Kabsa, which is basically rice cooked with delicious spices and any kind of meat – chicken, lamb, shrimp, camel or fish. It looks similar to biryani.

Madhruba

A Ramadan favourite, madhruba, also known as ‘beaten porridge’, is a combination of rice, milk, butter and cardamom that is cooked together until it becomes mushy. Chicken and other types of meat are stewed along with mashed beans.

Luqaimat

Usually made during Ramadan for a dessert-filled evening, this dish is a mixture of butter, milk, flour, sugar, saffron and cardamom. These ingredients are used to create little dumplings, which are then deep-fried and dipped in sugar syrup or honey to increase the sweet factor. Soft on the inside and crunchy on the outside, this dish is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.

Thareed

Another Ramadan special and similar to a pot of stew, thareed, often called the Arab lasagna, includes vegetables such as carrots, beans, onions and potatoes cooked with chicken or lamb and mixed with tomato sauce and spices. Bread is placed on the bottom of the dish, soaking up the stew juices and making the bread soft and flavourful.

Balaleet

Pasta made sweet – this Indian-influenced dish includes fried vermicelli topped with a saffron omelette, making it soft, crunchy, sweet and savoury all at once. People eat it not only for breakfast but also dessert.

Kousa Mahshi

Kousa mahshi is stuffed zucchini, and it is a favourite all over the Middle East. The zucchini in this international-inspired dish features a stuffing of lamb flavoured with mint and garlic; it is then baked in the oven before being served hot.

Read more: The must-visit museums in Doha, Qatar

Source Internet

What to wear in Bali, Indonesia

When venturing into Bali, you’ll find tropical heat, sun-kissed beaches, shady jungles and high volcanic peaks. Depending on the flavors you choose for your stay in Bali, be ready to pack accordingly and dress like an “onion.” In other words, wear layers.

Dry and wet season

Located a few degrees south of the equator, Bali has tropical weather; the island is humid all year, but drier on the southern coast. There are only two seasons: dry and rainy. The rainy season usually starts in October and ends in mid-March. During the rainy season, the temperature is still warm, although inland areas, including Ubud and the mountains around Kintamani, Munduk and Bedugul can get pretty chilly. The winds are rough on the coast and there are downpours every day, but usually only for a couple of hours in the afternoon. If you plan to visit Bali during the rainy season, make sure to pack layers and always—always—have a rain poncho with you.

When the rainy season ends in mid-March, the sky turns blue and the air is fresh and clean because of the rain from the previous months. The much-welcomed sun is hot, but in the evening, especially on the highlands, the temperature is pleasing—almost a bit chilly when driving a scooter. Pack light cotton and loose clothing; your skin will thank you.

Southern coast

The southern coast, including Kuta, Seminyak, Canggu and the Bukit Peninsula with Uluwatu, is the most popular destination on the island with beaches, surfing and clubs. If you are planning to visit these areas, your packing will be easy: boardshorts and tank tops or tees for the boys and a wavy dress or jean shorts with a top for the girls. Don’t forget to wear a swimsuit as well! If you plan to surf, wear a top to avoid a sunburn; it will save your holiday from unwanted “redness.” Also, bring a hat.

Northern highlands

The northern highlands, including Ubud, Kintamani and Munduk, are paradise for mountain and jungle lovers. The weather up here is still tropical and the sun will make you sweat all day. However, it might get a little bit colder, especially during the night or while driving a scooter. An additional scarf and a jumper will help. If you are planning to hike some volcanic peaks, bring sneakers or hiking boots, a wet-weather jacket and warm clothes. You’ll thank us later.

Temples and ceremonies

When visiting temples and other religious sites, use common sense and follow local etiquette. Wear a shirt that covers your arms and shoulders; men and women should also wear a kain, or sarong—a scarf that is wrapped around your waist, like a skirt.

If you are planning to attend a local ceremony, women usually wear the traditional kebaya, a beautiful, embroidered sheer cotton blouse that is worn over an ankle-length kain and tied with the help of a sash around your waist. Pull your hair back and you are ready to go.

Men should also wear a kain—usually one that is black or brown—tied with a sash. A plain shirt will do as a top. They should also wear the traditional headdress called a udeng.

Driving a scooter

When driving around, you’ll see that locals drive scooters with long pants and a jacket. Then you’ll ask yourself, “Why?” because it’s so hot. The clothing helps protect drivers from scratches and a sunburn. Follow their lead and always wear a helmet too. If you’re planning to have a long ride on a busy road, wear sneakers, a long sleeve T-shirt and a scarf or cloth over your mouth. It will protect you from dust. Drive safely!

See more: Top Michelin starred restaurants in Bali, Indonesia

Source: Internet