Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is the perfect destination for culture enthusiasts. Its rich history, vibrant traditions, and timeless beauty make it a must-visit spot in Vietnam. Whether you’re walking through the narrow streets or taking in the riverside views, Hoi An offers countless ways to dive into Vietnamese culture. Here are six activities that will make your visit to this enchanting town unforgettable.
1. Stroll through the Ancient Town
Located in the heart of Quang Ngai province, Hoi An Ancient Town is a treasure trove of history and culture for both the locals and tourists alike. In this enchanting town, time seems to stand still, preserving its eternal beauty for all who visit. Each step through Hoi An’s winding streets feels like a journey back in time, as antique houses and brilliant hand-painted lanterns guide the way. When the sun sets, these colorful lights illuminate the cobblestone paths, casting an otherworldly glow over the town.
Yet beyond its picturesque facade, Hoi An holds countless hidden gems waiting to be discovered: ancient pagodas, temples, wells, and bridges. With every turn, Hoi An reveals another layer of its captivating charm, offering a profound connection to Vietnam’s mesmerizing past and enduring traditions.
2. Take a boat ride along the Thu Bon River
The Thu Bon River is the lifeblood of Hoi An, winding through its rich history and serving as a vital link to neighboring areas. If Hoi An in the past was a bustling port, the Thu Bon River must have been the guiding current that facilitated the seamless circulation of goods and cultures. Experiencing the Thu Bon River is like immersing yourself in the Hoi An water version, as the river beautifully reflects the unique charm of the town.
To deeply feel the tranquility of Thu Bon, a boat cruise is recommended. This scenic journey takes you downstream, with stops at Cua Dai Beach, where you can listen to the gentle lapping of the waves, soak in breathtaking coastal views and perhaps dip your toes into the crystal-clear waters while capturing the sun sets down.
However, a true thrill-seeker wouldn’t want to miss the exhilarating experience of spinning wildly in a bamboo basket boat! These round bamboo boats are famous for their dizzying effects and are sure to leave you laughing until you’re breathless. This is definitely a should-try experience to connect with the local culture and enjoy the recreation available here.
3. Try your hand at traditional crafts
Ancient Hoi An was renowned for producing high-quality crafts. Just by walking around some of the historic shophouses in town, you will have the chance to witness the skills of old-time potters and sculptors. Today, those traditions are still preserved and remain one of the unique cultural features of Hoi An.
If you have a passion for handicrafts, don’t miss the chance to participate in workshops or craft classes where you can create loveable items from paper, wood, or ceramics. You are welcome to watch artisans showcase their skills first, and then you can create your own pieces. Make sure that you leave with a piece of this enchanting town in your heart—and perhaps a handcrafted souvenir in your hand.
4. Take a cooking class and indulge in local cuisine
Joining a cooking class is one of the quickest ways to immerse yourself in Vietnamese cuisine and culture. There are plenty of classes in Hoi An to keep your hand busy learning traditional recipes and cooking techniques from local chefs. However, before heading to the kitchen, you’ll have a trip to the local markets to buy ingredients. That’s where you’ll master the art of bargain with the local sellers like a real ‘housewife’. Usually, for most young people here in Vietnam, it’s not an easy task, but I’m sure it will leave you with unforgettable memories, especially when you go with your spouse or friends.
After each session, you’ll get a chance to try out your own dish and evaluate how good it is. However, if that doesn’t quite satisfy your appetite, don’t worry—there’s plenty more to indulge in. I highly recommend trying some of Hoi An’s iconic traditional dishes, including flavorful Quảng noodles, crispy Bánh xèo (Vietnamese pancake), fragrant Cơm gà (chicken rice), and the signature Cao Lầu (Hoi An noodle dish).
5. Attend the Lantern Festival
The Full Moon Lantern Festival is an age-old tradition in Hoi An’s ancient town, celebrated on the 14th day of every lunar month. As the moon reaches its fullest and brightest, the entire town turns off its electric lights, allowing the soft glow of lanterns and moonlight to take center stage.
The most captivating feature of this magnificent festival is, of course, the lanterns themselves. Crafted from delicate paper and silk, they come in a wide array of shapes and sizes, adorned with vibrant traditional motifs and colorful hues. People usually gather along the Thu Bon River to celebrate, share joy, and make wishes. They float their lanterns down the peaceful river, watching as the warm candlelight drifts slowly along the water.
6. Cycle through the countryside
Want to feel like a local from days gone by? This activity will show you how. Hop on a simple, engine-free two-wheeler and explore the serene countryside of Vietnam’s oldest city at your own pace, where traditions, architecture, scenery, and the rhythm of life have remained unchanged for centuries. Along the way, visit Tra Que Vegetable Village, a lush haven of organic herbs and vegetables that supplies many of Hoi An’s restaurants. Here, you can learn about traditional farming methods and savor some of the freshest produce you’ll ever taste.
Continue your ride to the Water Coconut Palm Forest in Cam Thanh commune, where you can glide through tranquil waterways in a coracle boat, immersing yourself in this unique ecosystem. Cycling through Hoi An’s countryside offers not only stunning landscapes but also a chance to experience rural Vietnamese life, connect with friendly locals, and dive deep into the culture. It’s an adventure that combines physical activity with cultural immersion, leaving you with memories that go beyond the typical tourist trail.
We cannot wait to share thousands of beautiful Vietnam with you. Join our “Morning Hoi An Countryside” tour and “Evening Hoi An Food Tour” available now on our website! Or you can write down your desired spots for us here, and we’ll help you craft a unique journey just for you!