Exploring the Charm of Hoi An: A Travel Guide
Hoi An was my favourite place in Vietnam, the type of place I’d always go back to. It makes the perfect destination for both active travellers as well as travellers who prefer to take it easy. While it’s quite small it has everything from history, culture, unique experiences and even beaches close by.
How to get to Hoi An?
The easiest way to get to Hoi An is from Da Nang. You can take a bus, train or even a taxi from here as it’s just 40km (25 mi) away.
Visiting the ancient town
To access the site in Hoi An you will need to buy a combined ticket that costs 150,000 VND (~ US$ 6.50). You can buy the ticket from various ticket booths scattered around the Ancient Town or from several of the attractions themselves. The ticket is valid for 10 days and you will need to pay in cash.
Top Things To Do
1. Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien
The Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien is an assembly hall that was built in 1690 to mark the town’s connection to Chinese immigrants. Its vibrant colour and beautiful courtyards make it one of the best spots for photographers.
Don’t miss the altar dedicated to Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea, where locals pray for protection and prosperity.
Info: Included in the combined ticket for Hoi An’s Ancient Town.
2. Ba Mu Temple Gate
The temple, dedicated to the Ba Mu goddess, sits just outside the main town.
The gate’s beautiful architecture shines next to a tranquil pond located in front of it. Talented local artisans created its unique architecture. Visitors frequently come here to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Info: the gate is free to visit
3. Chùa Cầu - The Japanese Covered Bridge
The 400-year-old bridge was built by Japanese merchants in the 17th century. The bridge is a well-maintained historical structure, but there may be occasional maintenance work. If any preservation work is in progress, it might affect access to certain parts of the bridge.
Info: Included in the combined ticket.
4. Enjoy the beaches
Hoi An is not just a about historical charm, just a short drive away you can find some stunning serene beaches. An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are both known for the golden sand beaches and clear waters. An Bang Beach is more popular among the locals while Cua Dai Beach makes the perfect spot to relax in a quitter setting.
5. Take a Coconut Boat Tour
You will see these tours being advertised all around Hoi An. While I wasn’t sure at first if I should give them a go or not, I’m happy I did. The experience consists of a tour around the Bay Mau Coconut Forest in a basket-like boat. While you go around the winding channels you will have a chance to try traditional fishing techniques and participate in coconut boat dance shows.
Good to know: it is a very touristy thing to do, but I found it quite fun.
Book your trip now:
Book your hotel
Find the perfect stay in Hoi An.
Book a bus/train/transfer
Secure your bus or train tickets.
Buy your eSIM
Stay connected in Vietnam.
Book your flight to Da Nang
Fly to Da Nang with ease.
Book your tours
Discover Hoi An's top attractions.
Rent a car/bike
Explore Vietnam at your own pace.
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