Overview
About Hoi An
Stepping into Hoi An is like wandering through a living museum, where time seems to have paused amidst the ochre-walled shophouses and iconic Japanese Bridge. Once a major trading port, this enchanting town is now world-renowned for its perfectly preserved architecture, vibrant lantern-lit streets, and world-class tailors. As dusk falls, the Thu Bon River becomes a glittering tapestry of floating lanterns, creating an atmosphere of pure, timeless magic.
What to see & do
Top attractions
Hoi An Ancient Town
A lantern-lit time capsule where Chinese shophouses, Japanese covered bridges, and European merchant homes line narrow alleys glowing after dusk. Once a thriving Southeast Asian trading port between the 15th and 19th centuries, Hoi An today blends immaculate heritage architecture with a celebrated food scene, riverside markets, and artisanal tailoring.
Practical Information
Logistics
Practical info
Getting there & around
The Ancient Town is a pedestrian-only zone during certain hours. Bicycles are the preferred mode of transport for exploring the surrounding rice paddies and nearby beaches.
Food & drink
Hoi An has unique specialties like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings. The central market is a fantastic place to sample these local delights at affordable prices.
Stay aware
Safety considerations
Hoi An is very safe, but be aware of ‘tailor shop’ scams or overly aggressive street vendors. Always agree on a price before services are rendered.