Today, the primary industry of Hoi An is tourism. There are, nonetheless, traces of its fascinating past everywhere. On a charming Hoi An walking tour, you will see influences from various eras, places and cultures. Here, you’ll see what to expect on a tour and how to make the most of it.
Top Activities Should Be Included in a Hoi An Walking Tour
Explore the Japanese Covered Bridge
During the 1400s, merchants from Holland, China, Japan, Portugal, and Spain began building residences close to the port. These communities grew in different districts, and their interconnections grew as well.
Around 1593, the Japanese built a bridge to link their neighborhood to the Chinese section. Some stories claim that the bridge was also intended to regulate Namazu, the fabled Japanese catfish said to set off earthquakes. After all these years, the Japanese Covered Bridge still stands powerfully. To underline its significance, this ancient building is also shown on the 20,000 VND money note.
Tips when visiting the Japanese Covered Bridge:
- Plan your Hoi An walking tour to visit this between 9:00 and 15:00 if you want the best experience at the monument. Crowds are usually less then.
- Finding a skilled guide will improve the whole trip greatly. These informed residents will point guests to the exact bridge site and offer thorough details on its architectural uniqueness and historical importance.
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Visit the Ancient Merchant Houses
Tan Ky Old House
- Location: 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc, Minh An Ward
- Opening hours: 8:00 – 17:30 daily
Named for second-generation Le Tan Ky, the 1741-built Tan Ky Old House has hosted seven generations of Le family members. Originally a trade center for agricultural products, this merchant house proved perfect for business during Hoi An’s port heyday.
The home is still remarkably well-preserved with obvious flood markings, after weathering many floods, including a big one in 1964. Though not the oldest structure in Hoi An, it became known as the first “Cultural Work” assigned by the Ministry of Culture and Information in 1985.
The tubular construction of the home combines Vietnamese, Japanese and Chinese architecture. Its construction consists of five vertical columns signifying natural components and symbolic dual columns expressing heaven-earth link. Good ventilation results from a central atrium even without windows.
Built mostly of wood using Thanh Hoa stone to cover the pillars and cool Bat Trang tiles, the home keeps year-round temperate temperatures. Kim Bong village craftsmen have brilliantly created without nails, and every design aspect reflects important Oriental philosophy.
Phung Hung House
- Location: 04 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai, Minh An Ward
- Opening hours: 8:00 – 18:00 daily
Dating back to 1780, Phung Hung Old House is a significant historic landmark from Hoi An’s golden trading era. Named for prosperity, it served as both home and trading post for a Vietnamese merchant dealing in silk, porcelain and spices.
Remarkably preserved through eight generations of the original family, the structure has endured numerous historical events while maintaining its authentic architecture. Designated a National Historical and Cultural Relic in 1993, this heritage site draws many visitors interested in exploring Hoi An’s cultural heritage.
The mansion exhibits an amazing fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural details. Its outside has traditional yin-yang tiles for natural temperature regulation and delicate Chinese-inspired carvings created from fine oak. Three major doors, with the center entry guarded by a door deity, show on the front distinctly. Although Chinese elements show up in the solid doors and windows, Japanese-style Tu Hai roofing and Vietnamese structural supports finish this ethnic mix.
Duc An House
- Location: 129 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward
- Opening hours: 8:00 – 21:00 daily
In Quang Nam, the Phan family’s antique house served as a bookshop, temple, residence, and meeting spot. Called “morality and peace”, it became historically important as a covert gathering place for 1930s revolutionaries fighting for Vietnam’s independence. Having housed eight generations of Vietnamese-Chinese architects, it is today a cultural monument and popular tourist destination representing Hoi An’s legacy.
From the early 19th century, Duc An mansion epitomized Hoi An’s Vietnamese-Chinese cultural interchange. Built using Central Vietnamese methods, this merchant tube home has a trade chamber, prayer space and family rooms. Its unusual overlapping roof produces an upper level rarer than others. Preserved with antiques, lacquered boards and unique literature, its workmanship provides guests with real understanding of Vietnamese design.
Tips when visiting the Ancient Merchant Houses:
- The Hoi An Ancient Town ticket usually allows entry to 5 sites, so plan your Hoi An walking tour in the route that consists the houses that interest you most.
- Visiting on weekdays is generally less crowded than weekends.
- These houses are historical treasures, so refrain from loud noises, running or touching fragile artifacts.
- Dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees.
- Some houses may have restrictions on flash photography, so be mindful of posted signs or ask for clarification.
Discover the Chinese Assembly Halls
Fujian Assembly Hall (Hoi Quan Phuc Kien)
- Location: 46 Tran Phu, Cam Chau Ward
- Opening hours: 7:00 – 18:00 daily
Originally built in 1697, the Fujian Assembly Hall exhibits remarkable Chinese architectural design. Fujian Province’s merchants are credited with building this magnificent assembly venue. Designed as an assembly hall, the construction really serves as a temple to the sea goddess Thien Hau. Along with goddess Thien Ly Nhai, who has the capacity to identify far-off vessels, the shrine also has goddess Thuan Phong Nhi, renowned for her hearing ships from a thousand miles away.
The Fujian Assembly Hall’s architectural details abound in symbolic animal images. Inside, guests may view a mosaic fountain with a fish sculpture honoring success. Other animal images include phoenixes denoting nobility, turtles showing longevity, unicorns representing knowledge, and dragons standing for power. Every being has particular meaning in Chinese cultural traditions and adds to the building’s complex symbolic language.
Cantonese Assembly Hall (Hoi Quan Ngu Bang)
- Location: 64 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward
- Opening hours: 7:00 – 11:00 and 14:00 – 16:00 daily
Around 1885, immigrants from Guangdong-Guangzhou set up the Cantonese Chinese Congregation’s Assembly Hall at Hoi An, a significant commercial port. Originally commemorating Mazu and Confucius, it was turned to glorify Guan Yu in 1911. Apart from its religious purpose, it was a meeting venue for Cantonese expatriates and is today referred to as Ong Pagoda or Guangzhao Assembly Hall.
The hall has unusual architecture using components built in Hoi An from China. Built in the form of the Chinese character for “nation”, from stone and wood, it has a three-door entryway, bonsai tree gardens, and a conventional three-section plan. Key elements are a carved stone entrance, a courtyard fountain with a dragon statue, three altars honoring different gods in the main hall, and a Guan Yu backyard wall mural.
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Wander Through the Central Market
Taking a Hoi An walking tour to the center of the old town, you’ll find Hoi An Central Market—the biggest and most well-known one in the area. Stored in a unique yellow structure that accentuates the old beauty of the town, it is still a major historical landmark mirroring Hoi An’s past as a bustling port city. Unlike the serene environment found elsewhere in town, the market comes lively with activity as both a retail destination and communal center where residents buy daily needs.
The well-organized arrangement of the market with specific areas lets guests quickly locate everything from groceries to souvenirs. In recent years, it has developed into a culinary attraction where visitors may taste real local delicacies such Cao Lau, Mi Quang, and Hoi An chicken rice. The stalls are incredibly well-organized, especially the food merchants, who are noted for their impeccable cleanliness, even though the market is somewhat small.
Indulge in Hoi An’s Culinary Delights
Cao Lau
Hoi An legend has it that Cao Lau first appeared in the 17th century, when merchants from all over the world flocked to the city’s harbor. Characterized by a fusion of Chinese and Japanese flavors, this one-of-a-kind meal combines char siu pork with noodles that are reminiscent of Udon. Called “Cao Lau” (meaning “high floor” in English), it was traditionally served on the highest floors of restaurants so that patrons could take in the breathtaking views of the old town below.
The ingredients used to make the dish are both basic and thoughtfully chosen. The unique noodles are crafted from high-quality rice that has been steeped to get the ideal consistency. Fresh greens, classic broth, crispy pig fat and char siu pork are the usual components of a plate. Some tourists may think it tastes like Pho at first, but Cao Lau has its own unique flavor that really stands out.
Top local spots to try Cao Lau:
- Cao Lau Thanh: 26 Thai Phien, Minh An Ward
- Khong Gian Xanh: 687 Hai Ba Trung, Minh An Ward
- Ba Le Well: 49/3 Tran Hung Dao, Minh An Ward
Banh Mi Phuong
The world has taken notice of Banh Mi Phuong (2B Phan Chau Trinh), a famous establishment in Hoi An, known for its delicious Banh Mi. It started out as a little booth at the local market in the 90s and has since expanded into a popular culinary destination.
After the late Anthony Bourdain gushed over its Banh Mi, saying it was among the greatest in the world, the stall’s popularity surged. Long lineups of residents and visitors alike form outside Banh Mi Phuong every day to enjoy such distinctive sandwiches, which are made with fresh ingredients and a secret sauce.
Another Banh Mi to try in Hoi An:
- Madam Khanh: 115 Tran Cao Van, Minh An Ward
- Banh Mi Pho Co: Intersection of Le Loi and Tran Hung Dao, Minh An Ward
- Banh Mi Sum: 149 Tran Hung Dao, Cam Pho Ward
White Rose Dumplings
Among the many kinds of Vietnamese dumplings, the white rose variants are a classic treat with a history dating back over a century. Different varieties of the classic Hoi An white rose dumplings are called “Banh Bao” and “Banh Vac“. The former is shaped like a flower in full bloom, with a little smaller circle than regular dumplings and an upper half that fans out. Meanwhile, the “Banh Vac” design features a half-moon shape that might be a cauldron handle or a lunar crescent.
These little dumplings’ elegant look and modest scale helped them to get their flowery name. The transparent rice wrapper covers a pinkish filling that evokes delicate rose petals visually. This hallmark meal perfectly captures Hoi An’s legendary cuisine and is still indispensable for visitors hoping to taste the real flavors defining this area.
Top local spots to try white rose dumplings:
- White Rose Dumplings Restaurant: 533 Hai Ba Trung, Cam Pho Ward
- Trung Bac Restaurant: 87 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward
- Trong Com Restaurant: 92 Bach Dang, Minh An Ward
Visit a Traditional Handicraft Workshop
Lantern Making
Making lanterns is a beloved custom in Hoi An, which makes the town’s magical ambiance stronger. These lanterns come in many sizes and forms because skilled artists use bamboo frames and colorful silk to create them. In addition to their aesthetic value, these lanterns have deep cultural meaning as symbols of good fortune and abundance. So, tourists on a Hoi An walking tour may have a once-in-a-lifetime cultural experience by taking a course and learning this age-old skill.
Pottery Making
Thanh Ha Pottery Village, located approximately 3 kilometers west of Hoi An City on the Thu Bon River, shows almost 500 years of ceramic workmanship. Tourists are drawn to the town for its rich cultural heritage, natural environment and friendly residents, as well as the opportunity to observe traditional pottery skills in a calm agricultural setting.
Thanh Ha was founded in the early 16th century by pottery workers from Thanh Hoa Province. It peaked in the 17th and 18th centuries, when it supplied ceramics across Central Vietnam and exported to Japan, China and Spain. Today, the ancient skill is carried on by 32 families descended directly from the original artisans.
Stroll Along the Thu Bon River
Seeing the Thu Bon River on a Hoi An walking tour would be like finding a site of great cultural value. Though historic villages are the expression of rustic charm, you can clearly sense the busy environment of buyers and sellers dealing at markets here. Consequently, the contemporary and idealistic elements have gotten somewhat entwined.
The most common approach to completely appreciate the scenery as well as everyday life of local people on the riverbank is boat trip sightseeing. You may rent a boat and start an exciting trip from either Nguyen Hang or Bach Dang port.
A one-day boat trip on Thu Bon River will enable guests to better appreciate why water and culture combine here. One may catch an incredible picture to recollect the romantic beauty of green coconut palms, happy faces of fisherman, brilliant grins of children, sounds from marketplaces and shophouses, etc.
Experience the Night Market and Lantern Festival
Nguyen Hoang Souvenirs Night Market
Though just 300–500 meters, Nguyen Hoang Night Market is Hoi An’s most well-known market with about 50 different stores offering lanterns, crafts, Ao Dai, and local specialties, especially featuring beautiful but reasonably priced pottery items from the historic 500-year-old Thanh Ha Pottery Village.
Cong Nu Ngoc Hoa Food Night Market
As a culinary paradise in Hoi An Ancient Town, the Cong Nu Ngoc Hoa Street market offers visitors authentic, tasty and affordable local dishes. Other markets in the area, such as those on Bach Dang, Tran Quy Cap, Tieu La and Hoang Van Thu streets, are open nightly from 18:00 to 23:00. So, just a Hoi An walking tour makes it easy to find all these culinary streets.
Lantern Festival
On the fourteenth day of every lunar month, Hoi An hosts the Full Moon Lantern Festival, which is also called the Hoi An Lantern Festival. As part of the festivities, the town’s electrical lights are turned off, letting the elaborate patterns and designs of colorful lanterns crafted from silk, paper and other materials light up the streets.
The most memorable part of the celebration is when everyone, from tourists to residents, puts their wishes for good fortune and happiness in the form of floating lanterns on the Thu Bon River. Temple rituals, cultural performances and history events will take place all throughout town during the occasion. The event highlights the cultural history of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its well-preserved architecture and timeless elegance, in addition to its lunar importance.
Tips for a Perfect Hoi An Walking Tour
Plan Your Walk at the Right Time
Mornings (before 9:00) and afternoons (after 16:00) are the best times to go on a Hoi An walking tour. During these times, you won’t have to worry about the scorching noon sun, which in the summer may reach above 35°C (95°F).
Walking during these colder seasons also makes it more pleasant, particularly while traversing the historic town’s tiny, shaded alleyways. On top of that, if you go in the late afternoon, you may see the town’s iconic lanterns lit up, which makes for a very enchanting scene.
Wear Comfortable Clothing and Footwear
Given Hoi An’s tropical climate, it’s advised to wear cotton or linen, which are lightweight and breathable. Also, be sure to bring sturdy footwear because the historic town’s streets are mostly made of uneven stones and brick.
You will be walking long distances on a Hoi An walking tour, so it’s best to choose shoes that allow your feet to fully extend without rubbing against one other. Add a lightweight raincoat or umbrella to your luggage during the months of September through January, when it’s likely to rain.
Bring Essential Items
It is recommended to bring a water bottle on a Hoi An walking tour in order to remain hydrated, especially in higher humidity. Moreover, to shield yourself from the intense tropical heat, you must use sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above.
Additionally, it is recommended to bring a modest number of Vietnamese Dong (VND) in order to buy food, beverages and souvenirs from street sellers. To further avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, it is recommended to bring insect repellent, particularly during the nighttime.
Capture Stunning Photos
There is no shortage of picture-perfect spots in Hoi An, thanks to the city’s picturesque streets and architecture. Photographers go to see the historic yellow-walled buildings, the vibrant lanterns strung along the Thu Bon River, and the world-famous Japanese Covered Bridge.
Additionally, you might want to look into the side streets and back alleys when on a Hoi An walking tour for some fresh viewpoints and hidden treasures. Photographing the town at the golden hour, just before sunset, is the best way to bring out all of the beautiful hues.
Respect Local Culture and Customs
It is absolutely crucial to honor the local culture and traditions when visiting Hoi An. In particular, while visiting religious buildings like the Fujian Assembly Hall or the Cantonese Assembly Hall, dress modestly to express respect.
Additionally, be respectful to these holy places by not being overly boisterous or disturbing. Furthermore, rather than being confrontational, try to haggle politely with local sellers. Also, always be sure to get someone’s “OK” before photographing them, especially if they’re old.
Final Words
Hoi An reveals its true essence only to those who take the time to explore it slowly. A Hoi An walking tour offers the perfect pace to absorb its remarkable diversity—from savoring authentic local cuisine to admiring the intricate craftsmanship of centuries-old architecture. Remember to learn about local traditions and the best times to visit, which can make your vacation that much more memorable.
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