Near the South China Sea in Central Vietnam, an ancient town thrives. An international trading port for centuries, Hoi An disappeared from prominence in the late 18th century.
More than 200 years later, the Vietnamese city has seen a resurgence, transforming into a bustling tourist destination.
Strings of colorful lanterns illuminate the landscape. Pagodas and temples make a grand statement with their majestic architecture. Yellow houses once used by merchants line the narrow, winding streets.
Now, they’re brimming with tourists, sipping coffee, sampling Vietnamese cuisine, bartering for cheap goods, and coveting tailor-made suits and dresses.
Sampans and cruise boats drift lazily down the Thu Bon River, setting one of Vietnam’s most iconic scenes.
Hoi An’s old town oozes charm. Nestled in the Quang Nam province of Central Vietnam, the UNESCO World Heritage Site is a delightful convergence of French, Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architecture.
Mix in the regional cuisine, the shimmering river, and the sacred shrines, and it’s hard not to fall in love with Hoi An.
The lack of vehicles allowed in the old town makes it even more beguiling. Restricted for most of the day, visitors meander the thriving marketplace without worrying about motorbike exhaust or noise.
Bicycles and cyclos make the cramped roads denser but also add to the town’s charm.
It’s a lovely trip back in time, one with historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. And that’s before dusk when Hoi An becomes a magical lantern city.
There’s no other place in Vietnam quite like it. Here are some of the best things to do in this enchanting city, whether you have a few hours or days.
Top Things To Do in Hoi An
1. Walk the Temple Bridge
The Chua Cau, also known as the Temple Bridge or the Japanese Covered Bridge, is a must to walk across.
More than 400 years old, the beautiful relic represents the physical connection between the Chinese and Japanese sides of town.
The ornate bridge boasts intricately carved columns, a curved roof, and a tiny temple. Even more impressive, the ancient bridge is built entirely of wood.
You might also recognize the bridge from your Vietnamese money. It’s displayed on the 20,000 VND note.
2. Sample the Cafes
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