Pushpitha Wijesinghe
As one of Vietnam's most intriguing holiday hotspots Hoi An is a UNESCO World Heritage Site littered with attractions. From sandy beaches to historic landmarks Hoi An's top attractions are as follows.
Tipped to be one of Hoi An's most spectacular natural attributes the Marble Mountains are a must-visit highlight for all first time visitors to the region. Composed of five hills the clustered mountains contain a vast number of tunnels, ancient religious institutions and caves with towering peaks at every turn. Ideal for both nature lovers as well as culture buffs this geographical wonder in Hoi An is a popular stopover for locals and tourists alike.
Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site the My Son Sanctuary is no ordinary temple complex in Hoi An. As one of the finest examples of Champa architecture and one of the few intact remnants of the bygone civilization this stunning Hindu temple is another site worthy of exploration. Once a thriving sacred institution the sanctuary is now composed of elaborate and well preserved ruins that house exquisite statues of stone and temple structures. Towers and other architectural remnants are also part of the landscape of this sanctuary in the wild.
A historic site as well as an architectural marvel in its own right the Museum of Trade Ceramics in Hoi An is an intriguing museum housed within a stunning timber house. Restored to its former glory the timber house showcases a wide range of ceramic wares hailing from China, Japan and Vietnam that were unearthed in various archaeological surveys throughout the centuries.
Often described as one of the most breathtaking corners of Hoi An Cua Dai Beach is a golden sanded beach that is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Providing beach lovers a scenic getaway in a tranquil paradise this Vietnamese beach resort area offers visitors a welcome break from the busy thoroughfares of Hoi An's traditional streets.
Exploring the city's cultural and socio-economical legacy throughout the ages the Museum of History and Culture is another must-visit point of interest in Hoi An. Delving in to this traditional city's illustrious past the museum traces the life and times of merchants who frequented Hoi An from the 16th to the 18th century as well as other great influences that shaped the city.
Located in Le Loi Street the House of Hoi Traditional Handicrafts is another hotspot in Hoi An for both shopaholics as well as those interested in the manufacturing process of fine silks. Housing an ancient silk loom which dates back to the 17th century visitors can purchase exquisite silk fabric as well as other home decor items at this silken haven where silk is produced the old fashioned way.
Having created almost all of the city's buildings, tombs and furnishings for centuries the Kim Bong Carpentry Village is an ancient artisan village which is responsible for crafting the Hue citadel and other cultural landmarks in the city. Offering visitors an in-depth look at the traditional methods employed in creating some of Hoi An's most recognizable architectural marvels the village provides hours of engaging tourist activities for the whole family. Visitors based in a luxury Hoi An hotel such as the Anantara Hoi An Resort can book a tour of the village through the hotel.
