Discover Hoi An: Vietnam’s Largest and Most Charming Ancient City in Southeast Asia
From the bustling Ho Chi Minh City, a one-hour flight takes you to Da Nang, followed by a scenic 45-minute drive to the enchanting ancient town of Hoi An. Once an international trading port of the Champa Kingdom, known as “Cua Dai” in ancient times, Hoi An rose to prominence in the 17th century as one of Southeast Asia’s most significant commercial ports, alongside Malacca.
It also holds the distinction of being the earliest Chinese settlement in Vietnam. Today, it stands as the largest and best-preserved ancient city in Southeast Asia!
Despite its title as the largest ancient town in Southeast Asia, Hoi An is surprisingly compact, with only 5-6 streets running horizontally and vertically. The town’s charm lies in its immaculate preservation; not a single modern building disrupts its historical ambiance, allowing visitors to savor its original flavor.
Stepping into Hoi An feels like entering a hidden corner of a Jiangnan ancient town, with well-preserved Chinese-style architecture that has miraculously survived the ravages of war, making it a truly remarkable experience.
Our visit was during midsummer, and the daytime streets were pleasantly quiet, despite the array of shops lining them. Enjoying a leisurely cup of drip coffee and meandering through the town provided a delightful respite from the heat. The relaxed atmosphere made every moment feel like a peaceful retreat.
The true magic of Hoi An unfolds at night when the river comes alive with painted boats. For just 150,000 Vietnamese dong (about 45 RMB), you can hire a beautifully decorated boat for a 20-minute cruise on the river, culminating in the enchanting ritual of releasing a lantern into the water. This unique experience adds a touch of whimsy and romance to your evening.
Along the river, numerous shops specialize in crafting traditional Vietnamese Ao Dai, the elegant national dress. Although these custom-made garments come with a higher price tag, their impeccable tailoring and quick delivery—often ready the next day after measurements—are well worth it.
In summary, Hoi An is a charming small town that invites you to linger for a few days, immersing yourself in its laid-back lifestyle. It is indeed one of the four “World Cultural and Natural Heritage” sites in Vietnam, and a must-visit destination.
(Note: For the ultimate Hoi An experience, opt for a homestay. These typically feature four-story buildings with large, colorful rooftops overlooking the ancient town. The vibrant exterior walls, adorned in shades of blue, yellow, and green, are complemented by lush flowers and plants. Our accommodation even boasted a courtyard swimming pool, perfect for a midnight dip.)
