HOI AN – ENCHANTING OLD QUARTER

Hội An formerly known in the Western world as Faifoo or Faifo, is a city of approximately 120,000 people in Vietnam’s Quảng Nam Province, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999. Along with the Cù Lao Cham archipelago, it is part of the Cù Lao Cham-Hội An Biosphere Reserve, designated in 2009. In 2023, Hội An was registered in the UNESCO Creative Cities Network list.

Old Town Hội An, the city’s historic district, is recognized as a well-preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port dating from the 15th to the 19th century, its buildings and street plan reflecting a blend of indigenous and foreign influences. Prominent in the city’s old town is its covered “Japanese Bridge”, dating to the 16th–17th century.

Hội An is one of the locations set in the opera “Princess Anio.”

The best time to visit Hoi An is during the dry season, from March to September.

Here are some of the top things to do in Hoi An:

• • Explore the Old Town: The Old Town of Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is one of the best-preserved ancient towns in Southeast Asia. It is home to a number of well-preserved wooden houses, temples, and pagodas. Visitors can wander through the narrow streets, admire the beautiful architecture, and shop for souvenirs.
  • Take a cooking class: Hoi An is known for its delicious food, and there are a number of cooking classes available where you can learn how to make some of the local specialties.
  • Go for a bike ride: Hoi An is a great city to explore by bike. There are a number of bike rental shops available, and you can easily get around the city on two wheels.
  • Get a massage: There are a number of massage parlors in Hoi An where you can get a relaxing massage.
  • Go shopping: Hoi An is a great place to shop for souvenirs. There are a number of shops selling clothes, jewelry, handicrafts, and more.
  • Take a boat trip: There are a number of boat trips available that take you around the Thu Bon River and through the surrounding countryside.
  • Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge: The Japanese Covered Bridge is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hoi An. It is a beautiful wooden bridge that was built by the Japanese community in the 16th century.
  • Watch a traditional dance performance: There are a number of traditional dance performances available in Hoi An. These performances are a great way to learn about the local culture.

How to get there?

1. Fly: Domestic & International flight to Da Nang; Prices can range from $100 to $190 USD per person (one-way economy)
2. Train: There are five trains that travel daily between Hanoi Railway Station and Saigon Railway Station; optional share cabin or private cabin; The train journey takes approximately upto 34 hours, depend on which station, and costs between $20 and $80 USD for a one-way ticket
3. Bus: the cheapest way to travel to Hoi An; The bus journey takes around 12-36 hours, depend on which city, and costs between $15 and $55 USD for a one-way ticket
4. Car: Special option Private car with driver is a great way to see Vietnam at your own pace. The car journey costs between $200 and $400 USD for a one-way ticket

Suitable duration: 1 – 3 Day