Hoi An is one of Vietnam’s most enchanting destinations, blending centuries-old architecture, rich trading history, and stunning natural landscapes. Here are the top five places you should not miss when exploring this UNESCO World Heritage town.
1. Hoi An Ancient Town
The heart and soul of the region, Hoi An Ancient Town features exceptionally preserved yellow-walled merchant houses, wooden shophouses, and vibrant lantern-lit streets along the Hoai River.
- Highlights: Wandering through vehicle-free ancient streets, riding a wooden boat at dusk to release paper lanterns on the water, and admiring the glowing night market.
- Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon into the evening (5:00 PM – 9:00 PM) when the lanterns light up the streets.
- Tip: Purchase the official entrance ticket (120,000 VND for foreign visitors / 80,000 VND for domestic visitors), which includes access to 5 historic sites within the ancient town
2. The Japanese Covered Bridge (Chua Cau)
Built in the 17th century by Japanese merchants to connect the Japanese and Chinese quarters, this iconic footbridge stands as an enduring symbol of Hoi An’s multicultural history.
- Highlights: Intricate wooden carvings, an enclosed shrine dedicated to the weather deity Bac De Tran Vu, and unique Japanese-Vietnamese architectural fusion.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning around 7:00 AM to beat the crowds and take photos in quiet morning light.
- Tip: Located at the western end of Tran Phu Street, this bridge is featured on Vietnam’s 20,000 VND polymer banknote.
3. Tan Ky Ancient House
Constructed in 1741 by a prosperous merchant family, Tan Ky is one of the most famous living museums in Vietnam, maintained by the seventh generation of the same family.
- Highlights: A 200-year-old residence showing a blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese design elements, open skylights, and rare artifacts such as the 550-year-old Confucius Cup.
- Best Time to Visit: 8:30 AM – 11:30 AM or 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM.
- Tip: English- and French-speaking guides are often available on-site to explain the subtle symbolism carved into the wooden beams and furniture.
4.Bay Mau Coconut Forest (Cam Thanh)
Located just 4 km southeast of the Ancient Town, this lush nipa palm wetland feels like a mini Mekong Delta tucked away in Central Vietnam.
- Highlights: Riding traditional round bamboo basket boats (thúng chài) through narrow waterways, watching basket boat spinning performances, and trying crab fishing.
- Best Time to Visit: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM or 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM to avoid midday sun.
- Tip: A standard basket boat ride costs roughly 150,000–200,000 VND per boat (holds up to 2 adults).
5. An Bang Beach
For a relaxing escape from the historic district, An Bang Beach offers soft white sands, gentle waves, and laid-back beachfront cafes situated only 5 km from town.
- Highlights: Swimming in warm waters, lounging on beachfront daybeds, sipping fresh coconut water, and eating fresh local seafood.
- Best Time to Visit: Early morning for sunrise or 4:00 PM – 6:30 PM for sunset drinks and swimming.
- Tip: You can easily reach An Bang Beach by renting a bicycle (approx. 20–30 minutes) or taking a short 10-minute taxi ride from the Ancient Town.
