Hoi An, one of Vietnam's most remarkable travel destinations, captivates visitors with its timeless beauty, unhurried pace of life, and rich cultural tapestry. If you're planning a trip to Hoi An soon, this guide offers a comprehensive A-Z overview, from where to eat and play to unmissable experiences.
I. An introduction to Hoi An
Aerial view of Hoi An Ancient Town (Image source: collected)
Hoi An, the ancient town nestled along the Hoai River in Quang Nam province, has long been a dream destination for both domestic and international travelers. Recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1999, Hoi An Ancient Town is not only a repository of ancient architectural values but also envelops you in a rare atmosphere of tranquility. A journey to Hoi An is a step back in time, unveiling the simple yet enchanting beauty of an ancient city that once thrived as Southeast Asia's busiest trading port.
II. The ancient beauty of Hoi An ancient town
2.1. Ancient and unique architecture
The first striking impression when visiting Hoi An is its rows of centuries-old houses. The architecture here is a harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and Western influences. The yin-yang tiled roofs, narrow stone-paved alleys, and weathered wooden doors all come together to create a space deeply imbued with the marks of time.
The distinctive yellow-tiled ancient houses of Hoi An Ancient Town (Image source: collected)
2.2. The radiant colors of lanterns at night
If you have the chance to visit Hoi An in the evening, take some time to wander beneath the dazzling rows of colorful lanterns. These traditional lanterns, handcrafted from bamboo frames and silk fabric, are not merely decorations but also a long-standing cultural symbol of the ancient town. The warm light from the lanterns, filtering through every nook and cranny, makes the space ethereal, evoking a sense of nostalgia and peace.
Lanterns burst forth in a riot of color, bringing Hoi An Ancient Town to brilliant life by night (Image source: collected)
On the full moon night each month, Hoi An hosts a lantern festival and releases floating flower lanterns on the Hoai River. Locals and tourists alike release shimmering flower lanterns onto the river, each carrying a wish for peace and happiness.
III. Unmissable Hoi An travel experiences
3.1. Explore Hoi An market
Hoi An Market is where you can truly immerse yourself in the local rhythm of life. Here, you'll discover a myriad of local products, from handicrafts and textiles to specialty dishes like Cao Lau, Banh Bao - Banh Vac, and Mi Quang. Don't forget to try Hoi An Mot Water, a refreshing herbal drink unique to the ancient town.
Hoi An Market, with its distinctive ancient architecture, is a bustling hub in the heart of the old town (Image source: collected)
3.2. Release flower lanterns on the Hoai river
One of the most romantic experiences in Hoi An is releasing flower lanterns on the Hoai River. Each lantern carries a prayer for peace and happiness, creating a shimmering tableau on the tranquil waters.
Tourists release floating lanterns on the Hoai River amidst Hoi An's shimmering night lights. (Image source: collected)
3.3. Join a lantern-making class
If you appreciate traditional culture, you can participate in lantern-making workshops right in the ancient town. Crafting a lantern with your own hands and taking it home as a souvenir will be an unforgettable experience on your trip.
International guests eagerly join a handmade lantern class in Hoi An (Image source: collected)
3.4. Discover Cu Lao Cham
About 20 minutes by canoe from Hoi An lies Cu Lao Cham – a stunning, pristine turquoise island. It's renowned for its crystal-clear blue sea, vibrant coral reefs, and delicious fresh seafood. A trip to Hoi An will be even more fulfilling if you combine it with a visit to Cu Lao Cham.
An overview of Cu Lao Cham, with its stunning turquoise beaches, quaint island fishing village (Image source: collected)
IV. Hoi An cuisine – Unforgettable flavors
Hoi An's cuisine is a harmonious blend of the rustic essence of Central Vietnam and the delicate refinement in every seasoning and presentation. Though not overly elaborate, each dish here holds a piece of memory, a slice of life from the ancient town's inhabitants.
- Cao Lau Hoi An: the iconic dish of Hoi An, featuring special golden noodles made from water from Ba Le well. Served with flavorful char siu pork, crispy pork cracklings, and fresh herbs, Cao Lau is not only delicious but also a culinary heritage intertwined with local history.
- Hoi An Chicken Rice: rich yet elegantly balanced. The rice is cooked with chicken broth to enhance its richness and aroma, served with shredded chicken, Vietnamese mint, sour onions, and expertly mixed fish sauce with garlic and chili, creating a harmonious and captivating ensemble.
- Cam Nam Corn Sweet Soup: a rustic dessert made from young corn grown in the alluvial soil by the Thu Bon River. The sweet soup has a delicate sweetness, a hint of richness from coconut milk, refreshing yet authentically simple.
- Hoi An Mot Water: a distinctive drink of the ancient town, with a pleasant aroma of lemongrass, lotus leaves, licorice, and a few jasmine petals. Though simple, a glass of Mot Water leaves a lasting impression on many visitors due to its gentle flavor and unforgettable charm.
Cao Lau – Hoi An's specialty dish, deeply tied to its history (Image source: collected)
V. Tips for first-time visitors to Hoi An
- Ideal Time to Visit: From February to April, the weather is cool and dry, perfect for walking and sightseeing. If you want to experience the festive atmosphere, you can visit on a full moon night to witness the ancient town shimmering with lantern lights.
- Getting Around: From Da Nang, you can reach Hoi An by taxi, motorbike, or bus, with a travel time of about 45-60 minutes. Renting a motorbike offers flexibility if you wish to explore nearby attractions.
- Notes: Wear comfortable shoes for walking; the ancient town restricts motorbikes during certain hours, so cycling or walking are good options. Bring water, a hat, and sunscreen if visiting during the sunny season, and some cash as many small vendors don't accept electronic payments.
VI. Conclusion
Traveling to Hoi An is not merely a trip; it's a journey back to ancient values, where one finds peace in every step. Whether it's your first visit or you've returned many times, Hoi An always has a way of captivating the hearts of travelers with its simple yet alluring beauty.
If you seek a place to find tranquility, to feel the slow rhythm of life amidst the hurried pace of the world, then Hoi An is where you should set foot at least once in your lifetime.
