One of Vietnam’s most picturesque towns, Hoi An is scenically set on the south central coast. Since being registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, the number of tourists has increased dramatically.
Between the 16th and 18th century, the port town was the hub for international trade in the country, with merchant ships from China, Japan, India and Europe sailing up the Thu Bon river to load and unload freight. Hoi An’s biggest pull is the Old Town, where wooden merchants’ houses, ancient temples, meeting halls, theaters and appealing museums are found.
Although rather commercialized, this site is well managed and has retained its village atmosphere. Entry works based on a coupon system, with one coupon allowing you to visit one of each of the major categories of attractions; one of the four old houses, one of three assembly halls, one of three museums, and either the Quan Cong Temple or the Japanese Bridge.
For early risers, the central market is by far one of the finest in Vietnam. Placed by the river, this spot becomes most appealing between 05:00 and 06:00 when the night fishing boats return to bring their catches. The market also features countless stalls offering silk, souvenirs and various foods. The tailors here belong to the cheapest and best in the town.
A lovely four-kilometer bike ride alongside rice paddies and lagoons takes you to Cua Dai Beach, a fine palm and pine-fringed sandy beach that offers great swimming and surfing and is a popular escape from the town’s bustle. The other draw in the area are the diverse islands, particularly the peaceful Cam Kim Island, which is inhabited by the master woodcarvers who created the marvelous carvings in Hoi An’s ancient town. Further away, Cham Island features unspoiled beaches and outstanding snorkeling and diving sites along with a tranquil fishing village and an 18th-century pagoda.
Getting There & Away
About 20kms north of Hoi An, Da Nang International Airport receives daily flights from Ho Chi Minh City (1 hour, 15 minutes) and Hanoi (1 hour, 10 minutes), as well as from Bangkok and Singapore three times per week. From here, you can get to Hoi An by bus or taxi. There is also a railway station in Da Nang, with services from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Hue and other Vietnamese destinations. Buses arrive at Hoi An from the south and north, the journey being cheap but fairly arduous.