Today, this little World Heritage-listed ancient town is praised for well-preserved buildings, pedestrianized streets and unique cuisine, allowing visitors a glimpse of its illustrious past. It offers some of the most densely concentrated sights in Vietnam, with its old streets bordered with ancient houses and assembly halls, with its pagodas, temples, ancient wells, and tombs.
Coming here, tourists can see a series of old-architecture lanes and houses. Their architecture is characterized by a harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese influences. They have been preserved in their original forms after many centuries, making it easier to imagine the trading town’s former prosperity and glory.
Hoi An is still respectful of its traditions, folk festivals, beliefs, and sophisticated culinary art. Hoi An’s specialties are plentiful and particularly tasty and cheap such as such as white rose (prawn dumplings) and “cao lau” (a pork noodle dish).
Hoi An is also the best place to be at night as the area is lit by quaint and old-fashioned lanterns, making it an atmospheric and beautiful spot. Especially, you will be impressed by the friendly and hospitable people here warmly welcoming you. Once you put your first step into this ancient town, you will feel like you have traveled back in time, to the old countryside society of Vietnam.
In Hoi An, there is a wide range of gift for visitors to buy. Especially, Hoi An lanterns and tailor-made clothing are renowned throughout Vietnam. Hoi An is indeed well known for their shops, especially clothing shops. It is simply incredible what the tailors can make for the prices they charge. Most shops have the latest fashion catalogs, and you simply choose what you want, have a fitting and they set to work making it for you - often very quickly. You will also find plenty of other souvenir shops, especially shops selling paintings, wood carvings and the colorful lanterns, which are beautiful when lit up at night.
A trip to Hoi An is ideal for those who want to escape from the bustle city life and look for the peace and tranquility in beautiful surroundings. It is truly a great place to go and explore. Located in central Quang Nam province, just 30km south of Da Nang city, it can be reached by car or motorbike. Let come and enjoy!
