Hoi An is arguably Vietnam’s most atmospheric and charming destination. Once a bustling trading port from the 15th to 19th centuries, it has been remarkably preserved as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The town is famous for its distinct yellow-walled shophouses, colorful silk lanterns, and pedestrian-friendly streets.
Unlike modern Vietnamese cities, the Ancient Town prohibits motorbikes during large parts of the day, making it a peaceful haven for walking and cycling. Whether you’re here to get a custom suit made, explore Chinese assembly halls, or paddle a basket boat, Hoi An feels like stepping back in time.
Ancient Town Overview
Status: UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999 | Entry Ticket: 120,000 VND (includes 5 sightseeing coupons)
History & Architecture
Hoi An’s architecture is a unique fusion of indigenous and foreign influences (primarily Chinese, Japanese, and European). This reflects its history as a major Southeast Asian trading port where merchants from across Asia and Europe officially traded.
The Ticket System:
- Entry to the Ancient Town area is technically free.
- However, to enter specific heritage buildings (temples, old houses, museums), you need a ticket.
- One ticket (120,000 VND) gives you 5 coupons for 5 different sites of your choice.
- Tickets are valid for your entire stay (keep the stub!).
Must-Visit Attractions
Use your sightseeing coupons for these top highlights:
1. Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau)
Built: 1590s | Significance: Symbol of Hoi An
This iconic bridge was built by the Japanese community to link them with the Chinese quarters across the stream. It features a small temple inside dedicated to the god of weather. Note: Currently undergoing restoration but still viewable.
2. Old Houses (Tan Ky, Phung Hung)
Tan Ky House: 200+ years old, owned by same family for 7 generations. Shows perfect blend of Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese architecture.
Phung Hung House: Dark wood, two stories, and beautiful balconies. Look for the trap doors used to move furniture during floods.
3. Assembly Halls
Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall: The grandest and most famous. Deep pink gate, dragon statues, and dedicated to Thien Hau (Goddess of the Sea).
Cantonese Assembly Hall: Located near the Japanese bridge, featuring a beautiful dragon fountain and statues depicting Chinese operas.
4. Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum
Entry: Free | Artist: Réhahn
Not part of the ticket scheme but a must-see. French photographer Réhahn displays stunning portraits of Vietnam’s 54 ethnic groups along with their traditional costumes. A culturally enriching experience.
The Tailoring Capital
Hoi An is world-famous for its skilled tailors who can create custom clothing in 24-48 hours.
How it Works
- Choose a Shop: There are hundreds. Research or ask for recommendations.
- Select Design: Bring photos, browse their catalogs, or bring an existing item to copy.
- Choose Fabric: Feel the materials. Ask about shrinkage and quality.
- Measure: The tailor will take detailed measurements.
- Fitting: Return the next day for a first fitting. Don’t be shy about asking for adjustments.
- Collection: Final pick-up usually within 48 hours.
Recommended Tailors (Range: Mid to High End)
- Bebe Tailor: Reliable, professional, huge fabric selection. (Higher price)
- Yaly Couture: Most famous, very high quality, showroom experience. (High price)
- A Dong Silk: Excellent reputation for suits and personal service. (Mid-High price)
- Kimmy Custom Tailor: Good balance of quality and price.
Tip: Don’t just go for the cheapest. You get what you pay for. A good custom suit starts around $150-$200 USD.
Food & Dining
Hoi An has its own unique cuisine that you won’t find exactly the same elsewhere in Vietnam.
Signature Dishes
Cao Lau: The definitive Hoi An noodle dish. Thick, chewy noodles (made with ash from Cham Island trees and water from the Ba Le well), pork slices, croutons, fresh herbs, and a small amount of savory broth.
Try at: Cao Lau Thanh (26 Thai Phien) or Morning Glory.
Banh Mi: Hoi An banh mi is legendary.
Try at: Banh Mi Phuong (famous from Anthony Bourdain) or Madam Khanh The Banh Mi Queen (many travelers prefer this one!).
White Rose Dumplings (Banh Bao Banh Vac): Translucent rice dough filled with shrimp or pork, shaped like roses. The recipe is a secret held by one family in town who supplies all restaurants.
Com Ga (Chicken Rice): Turmeric-yellow rice served with shredded chicken, herbs, onions, and papaya salad.
Try at: Com Ga Ba Buoi (22 Phan Chu Trinh).
Best Coffee & Cafes
- Reaching Out Teahouse: Silent teahouse employing hearing-impaired staff. Peaceful, beautiful decor.
- Hoi An Roastery: Reliable local chain, good egg coffee.
- Faifo Coffee: Famous for its rooftop view of the Ancient Town’s tiled roofs.
Lantern Festivals & Nightlife
Lantern Festival (Full Moon)
On the 14th day of every lunar month (full moon), the town turns off electric street lights. The streets are illuminated solely by thousands of colorful silk lanterns. Locals burn paper money and release candle-lit lotuses onto the Thu Bon River.
Every Night in Hoi An
Even without the festival, Hoi An is magical at night.
- Night Market: Located on An Hoi islet (across the bridge). Selling souvenirs, trinkets, and “Instagram” lantern photo spots (small fee to take photos).
- Boat Ride: Take a small wooden boat on the Hoai River to release a paper lantern for good luck (approx. 50,000-100,000 VND).
- Memories Show: A massive outdoor spectacle on a separate island, featuring 500 actors telling the history of Hoi An. Visually stunning.
Beyond the Old Town
An Bang Beach
Distance: 4km from town | Vibe: Relaxed, expat-friendly
Easily reachable by bicycle (20 mins) or Grab (10 mins). A beautiful stretch of white sand with great beach bars and seafood restaurants.
Popular spots: The Deck House (distinct blue/white decor), Soul Kitchen (live music).
Tra Que Vegetable Village
Located between town and the beach. See where all the town’s fresh herbs are grown organically. You can join farming tours, water the plants, and take cooking classes here.
Bay Mau Coconut Forest (Basket Boats)
Located in Cam Thanh (5km away). Famous for the “thung chai” (round basket boat) rides through water coconut palms.
Fun: Watch boatmen spin the boats wildly (if you dare request it!). Also usually includes crab fishing and karaoke.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Visit
- February - April: Perfect weather, cool and dry.
- May - July: Hot and sunny, great for beach, but get out early/late to avoid midday heat.
- October - November: Rainy season and flood season. Ancient Town can flood knee-deep. Check forecasts.
Getting Around
- Walking: Only way in Ancient Town center.
- Bicycle: Most hotels offer free bikes. Perfect for beach and rice paddies.
- Grab: Available for longer distances.
