Exploring Hoi An Ancient Town - A Land Of Heritage 

Getting to Know Hoi An Ancient Town 

Where is Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town is located on the central coast of Vietnam, in Quang Nam Province, and is widely regarded as one of the most charming destinations in the country. Founded in the 16th century, Hoi An once thrived as a major international trading port, welcoming merchants from China, Japan, the Netherlands, India, and Spain. This long history of cultural exchange has shaped the town’s unique blend of Eastern and Western architecture, traditions, and daily life.

Hoi An's old-world charm has been preserved amazingly well, with cobblestone alleyways, antique buildings, and characteristic yellow façades lighted by bright lanterns. Recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site since 1999, the town was also named Asia's Leading Cultural City Destination at the World Travel Awards in 2021, confirming its eternal appeal to travelers seeking history, beauty, and authentic experiences.

Planning Your Visit: Weather and the Best Time to Go

Hoi An Ancient Town has a tropical monsoon climate with two distinct seasons and an average annual temperature of around 25.6°C, offering different travel experiences throughout the year.

The dry season, from February to August, is considered the best time to visit Hoi An. From February to April, the weather is mild and pleasant with soft sunshine, ideal for sightseeing, walking tours, and exploring the Old Town at a relaxed pace. From May to August, temperatures rise and can reach close to 40°C, but the constant sunshine makes this period suitable for beach activities near Hoi An Ancient Town, such as An Bang and Cua Dai Beach.

The wet season, from September to January, brings heavier rainfall, occasional typhoons, and possible flooding in certain areas of Hoi An Ancient Town. During this time, temperatures are cooler, ranging between 19°C and 24°C. Although this is the off-peak tourist season, travelers visiting Hoi An can enjoy a quieter atmosphere while keeping a close eye on weather forecasts.

Discover the Essence of Hoi An Ancient Town

Chua Cau Japanese Bridge

The Japanese Covered Bridge is a 400-year-old architectural icon and one of the most recognizable landmarks in Hoi An Ancient Town. Built in the late 16th century by Japanese merchants, the bridge stands as a powerful symbol of Hoi An’s past as a thriving international trading port and a meeting point of cultures.

Spanning approximately 18 meters, the bridge features a crimson wooden structure set on solid stone foundations and topped with a traditional tiled roof. Inside, intricate carvings reflect a harmonious blend of Japanese, Vietnamese, and Chinese artistic influences, highlighting the multicultural character of Hoi An Ancient Town.

Beyond its architectural value, the bridge also holds religious significance. It houses a small temple dedicated to Tran Vo Bac De, a deity believed to protect the town from storms and floods. Recognized as a National Historical-Cultural Relic, the Japanese Covered Bridge is so deeply woven into Vietnam’s cultural identity that it is depicted on the 20,000 VND banknote.

An Bang Beach 

Located just minutes from Hoi An Ancient Town, An Bang Beach is known for its peaceful atmosphere and natural charm. Recognized by CNNGo as one of the 50 most beautiful beaches in Asia, this coastal stretch offers a refreshing contrast to the historic streets of the Old Town.

An Bang Beach is defined by its soft white sands, crystal-clear turquoise waters, and a calm, poetic setting that invites slow, unhurried moments. Unlike large resort areas, the beach has preserved the authentic feel of a traditional fishing village, where local life continues at a gentle rhythm.

The most memorable moments at An Bang Beach come at dawn and dusk, when fishermen return from the sea with their daily catch and the shoreline comes alive in quiet, everyday scenes. It is an ideal escape for tourists seeking balance between cultural exploration in Hoi An Ancient and relaxed seaside experiences.

Hoi An Night Market

Hoi An Night Market is a vibrant evening destination in Hoi An Ancient Town, renowned for its glowing lanterns, diverse shopping options, and immersive cultural experiences. Open daily from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM, the market combines lively energy with a surprisingly calm and blissful atmosphere, making it a must-visit after sunset.

The market offers a wide variety of handicrafts, clothing, and accessories, along with two dedicated rows of food stalls serving iconic dishes of Hoi An Ancient Town. From casual street snacks to local specialties, this is an ideal place to experience the town’s culinary scene in an informal setting.

Beyond shopping and dining, visitors can enjoy lantern boat rides along the Hoai River, where shimmering lights reflect beautifully on the water. A highlight of the evening is the flower lantern release, a peaceful tradition symbolizing hope and good fortune. Cultural performances such as Bai Choi, a traditional folk game featuring music and rhythmic chanting, provide a deeper connection to the heritage of Central Vietnam and complete the night-time charm of Hoi An Ancient Town.

Tra Que Vegetable Village 

Located just 3 kilometers from Hoi An Ancient Town, Tra Que Vegetable Village offers a peaceful, “healing” escape into the countryside. Recently recognized as a Best Tourism Village 2024 by UN Tourism, this rural community is renowned for its organic herbs, traditional farming methods, and calm, restorative atmosphere.

Visitors to Tra Que Vegetable Village can experience a day in the life of a local farmer, taking part in hands-on activities such as tilling the soil, sowing seeds, watering crops, and harvesting fresh vegetables using age-old techniques. These authentic farming experiences provide a deeper understanding of the agricultural roots that continue to support life in and around Hoi An Ancient Town.

Beyond farming, the village emphasizes wellness and relaxation. Herbal foot baths and massages made from locally grown herbs help relieve fatigue after fieldwork, while cooking classes invite guests to transform freshly picked ingredients into regional dishes such as Quang noodles, Banh Xeo pancakes, and spring rolls. The best times to visit Tra Que Vegetable Village are from February to April and September to December, when the weather is mild and the village’s peaceful, rustic charm is at its most inviting.

Tailored - made Hoi An tour with ACT Travel agent

Discover Hoi An Ancient Town your way with a tailor-made tour designed by ACT Travel Agent. From heritage landmarks and lantern-lit evenings to countryside escapes and authentic culinary experiences, each itinerary is carefully customized to reflect your interests, travel style, and pace.

If you are planning a personalized journey to Hoi An Ancient Town and its surrounding destinations, contact ACT Travel Agent today for expert consultation and a thoughtfully crafted tour made just for you.