Joanna James
As one of the oldest cities in Asia, Hoi An can be best described as a gateway into Vietnam’s rich culture and history. Here are some of the best ways to explore the country’s unique charm and beauty during your stay in this vibrant city.
This ornate temple is one of the city’s most sacred Chinese pagodas, first constructed in 1653 by Chinese immigrants who arrived in Hoi An. The temple easily captivates visitors with its elaborate Confucian and oriental architecture, intricate statues and stunning artworks. The temple’s main centrepiece is the 3-metre statue of General Quan Cong, found in the main shrine and meditation hall. The statue is adorned with a dragon-embroidered garb and is surrounded by several paintings and artefacts. The Quan Cong Temple is a great starting point for your city adventures, especially if you are staying just a few minutes away in hotels like Anantara Hoi An Resort.
Hoi An’s historic Old Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a must-visit hotspot when exploring the city’s heritage. This small neighbourhood is filled with ancient houses, art galleries, designer boutiques and museums that create an authentic atmosphere reminiscent of Vietnam’s rich past. A notable highlight is the Japanese Bridge, one of three tile-covered bridges in the country, that features beautiful Japanese architecture and ornate carvings. The northern end of the bridge features the Cau Temple dedicated to Tran Vo Bac De, the Taoist weather god.
One of the more unique tours to enjoy in Hoi An is a basket boat tour along the waterways near any of the city’s villages. A basket boat or ‘thung chai’ is a small round bamboo boat traditionally used by villagers, primarily for fishing. Basket boat experiences are commonly offered by hotels in Hoi An at popular villages like the Cua Dai Fishing Village. During these tours, you’ll be joined by village members for a journey along calm waterways surrounded by vibrant green landscapes. Along the way, you can also learn local techniques for catching crab and how to use traditional nets for fishing.
Lanterns are a significant part of Vietnamese culture and are often considered symbols of wealth, luck and happiness. Learning to make these beautiful structures is another great way to get acquainted with Vietnam’s unique culture in Hoi An. Lantern workshops aren’t hard to find in the city, as there are plenty of lantern-making schools with experienced instructors. If you sign up for a class you can expect to learn through step-by-step demonstrations that show you how to craft traditionally shaped lanterns using silk materials and bamboo frames and with any design you choose.
Amidst your cultural and historical explorations of Hoi An, don’t miss out on a visit to An Bang Beach. This gorgeous stretch of white sand provides a nice change of pace, allowing you to enjoy Hoi An’s coastal beauty that complements its rich cultural scene. The beach is lined with plenty of souvenir stalls, trendy restaurants and bars, and seafood vendors selling delicious treats. If your inner adventurer won’t be silenced you can head out for an exciting session of parasailing or jet skiing out on the ocean waters.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
