Activity

Hoi An, lying along the peaceful Thu Bon River, carries an incredible history of trade. This town was once considered to be the most important trading port in the region by Japanese, Chinese and European merchants during the seventeenth and eighteenth centuries. Looking back even further, the town was an important trading port for the Champa Kingdom.

In addition to its special geographic position and history, Hoi An has many unique attractions waiting for you to explore. The Ancient Town has small alleys where you can take a relaxing stroll while stopping from time to time to enjoy a cup of local Vietnamese coffee or delicious street food.

In the afternoon, you can have a leisurely cycle around the rice fields. There the aromas of the rice fields with revitalize your senses. The peaceful local beaches are perfect for activities like running and yoga, or simply sit down to enjoy the sun and sea breeze. Last, but not least, there are a range of cultural activities such as taking a cooking class or visiting a local village.

Hoi An truly defies short summaries and simple descriptions. Instead, it is a place to experience and enjoy.

Exploring Hoi An

Strolling through the narrow winding alleys of Hoi An Ancient Town you will be surrounded by characterful yellow walls and secret corners. There are markets and bridges and cafes nestled in lush green gardens. Stop for a bowl of cao lầu, a Hoi An.

Stroll beside the river to the historic Japanese Bridge as small boats drift by. During full-moon season the streets are decorated with lanterns that come to life as night falls.

Beach

A couple of steps from Dechiu is Tan Thanh Beach. It’s located at the southern end of An Bang Beach which has been named as one of the 50 most beautiful beaches in the world. The long stretch of white sand is perfect for exercising or simply sunbathing. Or curl up in a beach chair with a good book soundtracked by the ebb and flow of the tide. At sunset, you might see local fishermen beginning work by launching their basket-boats into the surf for a night of fishing.

Cycling in Hoi An

Cycling is the perfect way to understand Hoi An. Ride through endless rice fields past lazy water buffaloes grazing in rice paddies.

Ride along the river and see the bamboo fish-traps and fishing nets sitting in the water. And continue on to the photogenic Tra Que Gardens. There, enjoy organic salads made out of fresh, local ingredients grown by the villagers who live there.

My Son Sanctuary

Further west of Hoi An (about 30km away) you can visit My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. With more than 70 temples and tombs carefully built from bricks and stone, the area was the architectural center of the Champa Kingdom. Although time has turned some of the temples into ruins, many remain for you to explore and understand the fascinating history of this region.

Cham Island

Cham Island comprises eight small islands across 15 square kilometers. There, you’ll find mountains and tropical forests. The ecosystem is home to a diverse array of plants and animals. If you are a thrill-seeker, scuba dive or snorkel at the coral reefs taking in the dramatic underwater rock formations.

Art Performances

In addition to exploring Hoi An and the nearby sites, you can also enjoy some special art performances here. They include Hoi An Impression Theme Park, where historic Hoi An is recreated in all its glory.

You can also enjoy the “A O Show” which tells the striking story of this historic harbors evolution into modern times. The show incorporates traditional basket-boats, carrying poles and bamboo sticks to create a dynamic piece of physical theatre that is a celebration of Vietnam.