Hoi An is a living museum reflective of one of the most active Southeast Asian seaports of the 15th –19th centuries. Whilst the port was officially established in 1595, signs of human habitation can be found dating back 2,200 years.
The town’s original street plan and gorgeous architecture have been maintained despite urbanization, with more than 800 preserved ancient buildings to marvel at. Vietnamese culture is fascinating, with a host of different influences and philosophies and differences found across the country. From the ancient Buddhist influence to Confucianism, Taoism, French influence and beyond, the local culture is not just interesting but a little knowledge will greatly enhance your time in the country. Find out more about Vietnamese culture here.
Hoi An’s Ancient Town to see the yellowed buildings, the energetic banks of the Thu Bon River and its shimmering waters adorned with boats and colorful candles, quirky street performers and brilliantly-lit lanterns decorating trees, baskets of fruit balanced on Vietnamese ladies’ shoulders, and authentic market stalls packed with local specialities and souvenirs … you’ll find magic everywhere you look.
For much of the day motorized vehicles are banned from the streets in the Old Town affording an extraordinary walk back in time as one navigates narrow, curved lanes, the buildings of yesteryear now filled with stylish restaurants, cafes, bars, tailors and fashion houses.
Venture a kilometer or two out of town and you’ll find waterways, rice paddies, farming communities and sun-kissed beaches just minutes from the city center, each with a fine array of restaurants and bars by the waterside. Further afield, the larger city of Da Nang and its attractions are just 25 minutes away.
Now a UNESCO heritage site, Hoi An is one of the most magical environments anywhere in the world where Japanese, Chinese, French and Vietnamese architecture all come together with unique homogeneity.
Although its population is only 120,000 or so, Hoi An attracts a stream of Western travelers and a large expat population has developed over time. This has resulted in considerable Western amenities being readily available.