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Hoi An: The Historic City

Hoi An, Vietnam
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Updated byChelsea Gallagheron 19 November 2023

Located in the province of Quang Nam, a short 30km South of Da Nang, Hoi An is a very popular tourist destination worldwide. Hoi An is considered a living museum, and in December 1999, it was indexed as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO.

History of Hoi An

The history of Hoi An is displayed in all its splendor through its unique architecture. Buildings and streets still bear the footprints of Ancient Vietnam with touches of Chinese, Japanese, and French cultures. Some houses are built of concrete, and others of jackfruit wood, which is surprisingly very solid. Hoi An is a coastal destination that allows tourists to enjoy the ocean and a heritage preserved for generations.

One of the wonders to discover in Hoi An is the Chua Cau, also known as the Japanese Covered Bridge. This monument is known to connect neighborhoods inhabited by Japanese and Chinese communities. Each end of the bridge is guarded by a pair of wooden adoration statues in the form of a dog and a monkey. According to Japanese belief, these animals are considered to be sacred animals, being able to control the sea monster.

Handicraft in Hoi An

While strolling along Hoi An's streets adorned with lanterns, you will be immersed in some of Vietnam's finest cultural and culinary experiences, including bespoke merchants, delicate antique and souvenir shops, bustling corner cafes, and vibrant marketplaces. In the market, you can expect to find artisanal goods and street food vendors unique to the region.

Hoi An is known for making tailored suits and dresses within 24 hours, making it a must-do experience. You could even design a whole new travel wardrobe to stay comfortable in the sweltering Vietnam heat, and it's a rare keepsake that will live in your closet after your travels.

Here is a list of different tailors ranging in price but uncompromising on customer service.

A DONG SILK

Address: 40 Le Loi, Hoi An.

Tel: ( 84.510)3 910579/3 861386

B'LAN SILK

Address: 23 Tran Phu Street

Tel: 84-510.3861866

Ms. An

Address: 01 Trần Phú, Cẩm Châu, Hội An, Quảng Nam, Vietnam

Phone: 84 905 031 315

Nightlife in Hoi An

Hoi An, similar to Hanoi, is still on a regulated curfew, meaning most places will close by midnight. But you can still explore a plethora of bistros, cafes, and bars, especially in the concentrated area of Ancient Town and the riverside. You will often find someone advertising a late-night bar, but make sure you can get home via taxi as it may be hard to do so. If you spend the evening in the Ancient town, you can leisurely stroll from one bar to the next, stopping for a snack and meeting other foreigners enjoying the small-town atmosphere.

Important:

Be aware of taxi drivers and an unreliable meter. Use apps like Grab when traveling around the city for security, and always double-check the license plate.

Beaches in Hoi An

Hoi An is also known for its white-sand beaches and picturesque palm-tree-lined views. During your stay, you can simply enjoy a relaxing day at the beach or enjoy more adventurous activities, including water skiing, jet skiing, surfing, kite surfing, and more. You can also explore the rich underwater flora and fauna during a dive, as well as visit the nearby islands.

Be sure to check the typical weather forecast if you are only visiting the town for a short period. The weather throughout the year in Hoi An can fluctuate between rain and cold, hot and mild, and calm.

We do our best to provide accurate and up to date information. However, if you have noticed any inaccuracies in this article, please let us know in the comments section below.

About

Chelsea is a Canadian freelance writer who has been living abroad in Vietnam since 2019. For her, Vietnam is numerous noodle soups, chaotic markets, hidden alleys, and breathtaking landscapes from north to south; making vibrant memories countrywide.

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Comments

  • tracy dougall
    tracy dougall10 years ago(Modified)
    Any ideas of were to stay. Cheers

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