26/08/2023
BEST THINGS TO DO IN HOIAN ANCIENT TOWN
The charming ‘yellow town’ is packed with history and full of opportunities to create magical memories. Here are the top suggestions for what to do when visiting…
TAKE A BOAT TOUR
Given its estuary location, traditional boats are another distinctive feature of Hội An. The river that’s welcomed generations of trade is still a source of livelihood for many locals. A boat trip is a cooling, soothing way to experience the city from its waterways. The most popular choice is a sunset cruise on one of the sampans that line the riverside. Early birds should try a sunrise tour of the fish market on a traditional wooden boat. Help the fishermen returning offload their catch, ready to sell. For something different, hop into one of the quirky circular bamboo boats unique to Vietnam.
STROLL AROUND THE OLD TOWN
With its historical buildings and mix of European and Asian architectural styles, there’s plenty to admire on an unhurried walk through the ancient town. The original street grid plan remains as it was, and 844 of the 1107 buildings making up the townscape are on the UNESCO World Heritage list. So walking the streets of Hội An is like moving through a living museum. Give yourself enough time to stop for a ‘cà phê sữa đá’ (delicious Vietnamese iced coffee), enter a gallery, or shop for souvenirs.
MARVEL AT THE BEAUTY OF THE LANTERN FESTIVAL
Why is the lantern the most iconic symbol of Hội An? Ever since Chinese and Japanese traders introduced them hundreds of years ago, lanterns have always been hung – and made – here. For the most memorable trip (and most stunning photos), the best time to visit Hội An is during the lantern festival, held on the 14th day of every lunar month, when the moon is full. At night, the town reduces its electricity usage, so the candle-lit lanterns steal the show. Find a spot by the river, where lanterns are cast adrift to bring good luck. Or hop onto a boat and drop a lantern as you make a wish of your own.
TOP TIP: Buy an Old Town Ticket at the entrance to the old town to get entry into five of Hội An’s heritage buildings.
"Explore the heritage buildings of Hội An old town to get a feel for what life was like when it was a busy trading port."
"Take your time to stroll around the many shops and cafés in the charming ‘yellow town’. Better yet – take a cyclo, sit back and relax."
BUY FABRIC AND CUSTOM-MADE CLOTHES
Fabric, particularly silk, is woven into Hội An’s history. During Silk Road times, it was currency. Over time, many families took to selling fabrics or making garments. Now, Hội An is a hotspot for travelers wanting quality items tailor-made. For a sensory experience like no other, visit the Hội An Cloth Market. Here, at over 50 stalls stacked high with fabrics of all kinds and colours, sellers entice passers-by to buy. The experience can be overwhelming. So keep a cool head, and get ready to hone your bargaining skills. Looking for a gentler, more genteel experience? Visit one of the town’s many tailors. The cost of fabric is included, so you don’t have to source it yourself. And if it’s silk you’re after, head to the Hội An Silk Village.
TOP TIP: Place your order early in your trip, so the tailors have enough time to make up your outfit.
VISIT THE JAPANESE COVERED BRIDGE
Back in the 15th century, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Portuguese merchants began to settle around the port. As communities grew in different areas, so did their interactions. Around 1593, the Japanese built a bridge to link their neighborhood to the Chinese one. Some say the bridge was also meant to subdue Namazu, the mythical Japanese catfish creature believed to cause earthquakes. All these years later, the Japanese Covered Bridge still stands strong. The landmark even features on the 20,000 VND banknote – that’s how significant it is.
TOP TIP: An Old Town Ticket gives you access to the interior temple. Money from ticket sales goes towards preserving the bridge.
EXPLORE THE MUSEUMS
Unsurprisingly, the old quarter is full of museums that offer detailed insight into the story of this stunning town. Among these are five top attractions: the Museum of History and Culture gives a comprehensive overview, with artifacts spanning about 2,000 years; the Museum of Folklore looks at traditional crafts and includes a performance; the Museum of Sa Huỳnh Culture gives insight into the Sa Huỳnh period; the Museum of Trade Ceramics showcases pottery and ceramics; while Tan Ky Old House is a stunning example of Asian architecture and Oriental philosophy. Built in 1741, it’s been home to seven generations of one Vietnamese family and is a great example of an 18th-century merchant’s home.
TOP TIP: At Tan Ky House, look out for the stunning One Hundred Birds lacquered board. Written in 100 letters, each stroke of writing is actually an image of a bird in flight.
Refer: Vietnamtravel
HOW TO GET THERE
Simply by booking our private car service, our driver will pick up you to Hoian town. The car will stop at the front gate then you could enjoy walking around this ancient town.
The price for car is:
750,000 vnd/ 4 seater sedan/ round trip from Danang
850,000 vnd/ SUV/ round trip from Danang
Including: Insurance, private car and driver, parking fee, toll fee.
Excluding: F&B cost, entrance fee.
Booking is easy by emailing us via: [email protected]/ text/
WhatsApp us via +84 934959727
