
One of the most beautiful ancient towns in the world is nestled along the Thu Bon River in Vietnam’s central Quang Nam Province. Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999 and stands as a living testament to history, culture, and architectural beauty. The enchanting town of Hoi An in Vietnam captivates visitors with its well-preserved heritage, lantern-lit streets, and unique charm just 20 minutes drive from one of Asia’s best beach holiday destinations, Da Nang. But what makes Hoi An one of the world’s most attractive ancient towns? Let’s find out.
Hoi An Ancient Town: Rich History
The ancient town of Hoi An dates back more than 2,000 years, when it flourished as a prominent trading port attracting merchants from China, Japan, India, and Europe, from the 15th to the 19th centuries. As a result, the rich history of the town is steeped in global influence, blending Vietnamese traditions with Chinese temples, European colonial designs, and Japanese bridges. Certainly, it’s one of the most unique places to explore in Asia.
Today, travellers can get a glimpse into the lives of past generations as time stands still in Hoi An. Visitors can immerse themselves in the town’s bustling markets, tranquil riverside cafes, music performances, and other authentic immersive experiences like Bamboo Basket Boat Rides.
Both day and night brings a unique atmosphere. By day, Hoi An’s cobblestone streets offer picturesque views of the ancient town framed in bougainvillea blooms. By night, the town glows under the soft light of lanterns across streets and floating on the Thu Bon River.
Additionally, the town hosts many festivals including the famous Hoi An Lantern Festival. It features colourful lanterns illuminating the streets and rivers. Meanwhile, travellers can enjoy traditional activities like lantern-making or savouring local culinary delights such as banh mi.
Architectural Marvels That Tell Stories
Walking through the pedestrian-friendly streets of Hoi An feels like stepping into an open-air museum. The streets are lined with yellow shophouses, adorned with moss-covered tiled roofs, and intricate wooden carvings. Most buildings preserve their original structures and charm, and reflect centuries of cultural exchanges including:
- The Japanese Covered Bridge: A 17th-century masterpiece symbolising cultural connections.
- Ancient Houses: These 17th century houses like Old House of Tan Ky and Phung Hung showcase Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese design elements.
- Pagodas & Assembly Halls: Spiritual hubs such as the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall add depth to the town’s culture.
Must-visit Hoi An attractions include the Quan Cong Temple, Japanese Covered Bridge which connects two parts of the town, visually-striking 17th century landmarks like Fujian Assembly Hall, the Museum of Trade Ceramics, and Phung Hung Old House which has been home to eight generations for more than 226 years, to name a few.
Other things to do in Hoi An include getting clothes and shoes custom-made, learning pottery-making at Thanh Ha Pottery Village, indulging on street food at Hoi An Night Market, and relaxing on golden-sand beaches.
Why Hoi An Stands Out Globally?
Hoi An has earned numerous accolades for its beauty and cultural significance. This year it was ranked the world’s fourth best honeymoon destination and the fourth most beautiful city worldwide.
Indeed, Hoi An Ancient Town provides an unforgettable journey into Vietnam’s past. It’s more than just an architectural wonder, it’s a living expression of history, culture, and artistry. The dreamy setting transports visitors back in time while offering vibrant experiences rooted in tradition. Perfect for solo holidays or romantic adventures if you ask us!
Tips for visiting Hoi An
Travellers eager to visit Hoi An in Vietnam should purchase an Old Town ticket to access up to five heritage sites, visit early in the morning or late at night to avoid crowds, and pre-book activities and tours to avoid disappointment. Wonderfully, Da Nang Airport is just two hours and 40 minutes direct flight from Singapore.
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