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Hoi An is a charming destination on Vietnam’s central coast. There are a lot of interesting things to do in Hoi An since it is a place packed with rich culture, history and natural beauty. It is a well-preserved ancient town and also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are a lot of things to see in Hoi An, from narrow streets to historical buildings and bustling markets too. Hoi An offers a unique atmosphere to explore and enjoy every day.
10 Things To Do In Hoi An
Are you thinking about what to do in Hoi An? Here is a list of some of the most important and fun things to do in Hoi An to make your memories everlasting.
1. Marvel At The Japanese Covered Bridge
Photo: David McKelvey / Wikimedia Commons
The Japanese Covered Bridge is located at the Western end of Tran Phu Street in Hoi An. It is known for its ancient Japanese architecture and carvings of animals. It is believed that the bridge was built to subdue a world-spanning dragon monster, named Mamazu whose head lies in India, back in Vietnam, and tail in Japan. Whose body movements are believed to cause all the earthquakes. This bridge is also known as the most romantic place in Hoi An, as couples come to click pictures on it.
Location: Japanese Covered Bridge, Hoi An
Timings: 9 AM – 3 PM
2. Visit The Fujian Assembly Hall
Photo: Chainwit. / Wikimedia Commons
The Fujian Assembly Hall, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in Hoi An, stands as an impressive edifice that has played a pivotal role in the city’s Fujian Chinese community since 1690. Within the hall, a shrine dedicated to a sea goddess can be found, along with various rooms decorated with detailed mosaic fountains and sculptures. The central hall was historically used as a gathering place for residents to meet and socialise. The building’s exterior is just as remarkable, combining historical importance with captivating beauty.
Location: Fujian Assembly Hall, Hoi An
Entry Fee: 150,000 VND (₹500)
Timings: 7 AM – 6 PM
3. Explore The Old Town
Photo: Toomas Tartes / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Hoi An Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a small city within Hoi An Town. It has ancient houses, boutiques, galleries, museums, and coffee shops. An amazing place to spend a day exploring and enjoying. The centrepiece of the town is the Japanese Covered Bridge. It has 22 cultural sights and a beautiful and lively atmosphere. The vibrant roads of the place attracts many tourists. This area is a pedestrian-only zone and no bikes or cars are allowed here. Exploring this vintage town is one of the best things to do in Hoi An.
Location: Old Town, Hoi An
Entry Fee: 120,000 VND (₹400)
Timings: After 10 AM
4. Relaxing At Cua Dai Beach
Photo: frank mckenna / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Cua Dai Beach is one of the most beautiful places and it is also the closest beach to Hoi An city. This beach has no beach bars or restaurants hence giving a wilder feel, but also is secluded and hence a very relaxing place for the visitors. Tourists enjoy sunbathing, surfing, and picnics with their families here. Although the beach has undergone erosion, it is still very crowded, hence visit on weekdays is preferred. It is the best place to sit and relax with loved ones.
Location: Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An
Entry Fee: 5,000 VND (₹17)
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
5. Shopping At Hoi An Central Market
Photo: Johen Redman / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Hoi An market located in Tran Phu is a bustling market with vendors selling produce, clothing, souvenirs and much more. It occupies a traditional Vietnam building and is usually very lively and crowded. There are many food stalls in the market to enjoy all sorts of street foods. You can shop and enjoy delicious Vietnamese street food altogether. Everything from toiletries, embroidered garments, footwear and traditional clothing is available in the market. You can enjoy shopping and buying souvenirs from here a lot.
Location: Tran Phu, Central Market, Hoi An
Entry Fee: 500 – 10,000 VND for parking (₹17-34)
Timings: 9 AM – 6 PM
6. Boating In Thu Bon River
Photo: mishmoshimoshi / Wikimedia Commons
Visitors can experience the thrill of coconut boat rides along the Thu Bon River in Hoi An. This unique adventure typically takes place in the rural areas surrounding Hoi An, such as Cam Thanh Coconut Village or the Bay Mau Coconut Forest. The boats, known as ‘Thung Chai’ or ‘Basket Boats,’ are round and crafted from bamboo, offering a distinctive way to explore the river. Alongside the boat rides, visitors can also engage in other activities like fishing, paddling, or learning the art of crab catching.
Location: Thu Bon River, Hoi An
Entry Fee: 150,000 VND (₹500)
Timings: 7:30 AM – 5:30 PM
7. Praying At Quan Cong Temple
Photo: Franzfoto / Wikimedia Commons
Built in the 1650s by Chinese immigrants, Quan Cong Temple is one of the most revered Chinese pagodas. The temple is a stunning example of oriental architecture, adorned with beautiful statues and artworks. A three-metre-tall statue of General Quan Cong stands in the meditation hall, dressed in dragon-embroidered robes and surrounded by valuable artefacts and paintings that narrate his legend. The temple draws numerous visitors, not only for its intricate and impressive designs but also as a place to honour and pay tribute to the General.
Location: Quan Cong Temple, Hoi An
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
8. Explore The Museum Of Trade Ceramic
Photo: Steffen Schmitz / Wikimedia Commons
Built in 1858, the Museum of Trade Ceramics occupying the traditional Vietnamese timber house showcases around 430 ceramic artefacts in the centre of the Ancient Town. These ceramic artefacts are a testimony of the ceramic trade that took place from the 8th to 18th centuries, hence the museum provides insight into the ceramic trade thoroughly. You can get to learn about the country’s relations with China, India, Japan, and Thailand. The pretty artefacts are displayed throughout the museum and are liked by the visitors a lot.
Location: Museum of Trade Ceramics, Hoi An
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
9. Climb Up The Marble Mountains
Photo: Diggity Dog / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
The Marble Mountains of Hoi An consist of five marble and limestone hills that are named after the five elements of life, i.e., earth, water, fire, space and wind. They are marked among the top natural treasures of Vietnam. They feature tunnels, Buddhist grottos, Hindu shrines and caves built by the Cham People. One of the five mountains, Mount Thuy, is accessible to tourists for trekking and offers a stunning and serene view of Da Nang City and the coast.
Location: Marble Mountains, Hoi An
Entry Fee: 409,000 VND (₹1,380)
Timings: 7 AM – 5:30 PM
10. Explore The Tra Que Village
Photo: Peter Borter / Unsplash / Image For Representation Only
Tra Que Village is a 300-year-old village. It is a must-visit for all the nature-loving, foodie and greenery fans. It is a beautiful village with lush green plants and trees all around. It is located beside the De Vong River and it has farmlands, a culinary village which offers cooking classes and also restaurants. You can either stroll around through the neatly planted rows of Vietnamese herbs and organic greens like spinach or can simply enjoy the delicious food out there.
Location: Tra Que Village, Hoi An
Entry Fee: 35,000 VND (₹118)
Timings: 8 AM – 5 PM
Hoi An offers a rich variety of experiences, ranging from exploration of the historic Old Town to the crowded vibrant market, from relaxing beaches to enjoying local food. It is a memorable escape from the daily routine with all the interesting things to do in Hoi An. Book a trip to Hoi An with TripXL for an amazing experience altogether.
