Discover the Enchanting Charm: Addicted to Hoi An’s Ancient World 🇻🇳

🌏 Hoi An: A UNESCO World Heritage site, originally an international trading port of the Champa Kingdom, known in ancient times as “Da Chiem Ha Cang.” As early as the 17th century, it became one of the most important commercial ports in Southeast Asia alongside Malacca and was also the earliest Chinese settlement in Vietnam.

🌍 Cam Nam Island: Located across the Thu Bon River from the ancient town of Hoi An, it is famous for its water coconut forest and pristine natural scenery. There are countless basket boats (a must-try activity, 36 yuan per person for a one-hour basket boat trip through the water coconut forest and a coconut 🥥) within the water coconut forest.

Legend has it that during the Nguyen Dynasty, the emperor ordered increased taxes on fishing boats to build a royal mausoleum. Under the heavy tax burden, fishermen invented the basket boat to evade the fishing boat tax.
🌎 Japanese Covered Bridge: Also known as the Japanese Bridge or Temple Bridge, this is the only ancient bridge in Hoi An, Vietnam, and has become a symbol of Hoi An.

It is a covered bridge designed to provide shelter from the elements. In the center, there is a temple with a stone Buddha statue, built by the Ming community during the Ming Dynasty, with incense smoke curling and an ancient style, occasionally accompanied by the deep sound of a bell. The bridge structure is very sturdy, capable of good earthquake resistance.

After several centuries of renovation, the bridge has largely maintained its original appearance. There are stone monkeys and stone dogs at the ends of the bridge, so it is also called the Stone Monkey Bridge, and the overseas Chinese call it the “Monkey Bridge.” On the bridge, there is a plaque inscribed with “Yuan Lai Qiao” and other Chinese characters such as “An Cheng” and “Li She.

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🌎 Thu Bon River: It flows through the ancient town of Hoi An, with characteristic buildings, streets hung with lanterns, night markets, and cultural landscapes along its banks. The night view of the Thu Bon River near the Cau An Hoi Bridge is the most enchanting. Be sure to take a boat ride on the Thu Bon River at night in this area, where you can also release river lanterns, creating a romantic atmosphere.

🌍 Chaozhou Assembly Hall: Built in 1845, it has distinct Chaozhou cultural characteristics. Vermilion pillars support a two-story green glazed tile roof, with upturned eaves. The carvings of figures, flowers, and fruits on the altar are exquisitely detailed and uniquely shaped. It is said that all the construction materials were transported from the Chaoshan homeland.

🌏 Fujian Assembly Hall: Also known as Jinshan Temple, it is the most important Chinese assembly hall in Hoi An, built by Fujian merchants in 1697, and serves as an important gathering place for the Chinese community in Hoi An. Inside the assembly hall, Mazu is worshipped, with Thousand-Mile Eyes and Favorable Wind Ears on either side, and there is also a model of an ancient wooden sailing ship.

It is said that the Singapore Chinese Chamber of Commerce also boasts an identical model. The vibrant decorations and meticulously preserved statues make this assembly hall a true visual spectacle. A ceramic-inlaid pond, teeming with carp, symbolizes the auspicious journey of the carp leaping over the dragon gate. This enchanting scene is further enhanced by traditional Chinese symbols of good fortune, such as dragons, qilins, and phoenixes.

🌏 **Guangdong-Guangxi Assembly Hall**: Established in 1786, it is believed that all the building materials were sourced and crafted in Guangdong before being shipped to Hoi An for assembly. The four intricately carved dragon columns at the entrance and the stunning ceramic-inlaid dragon-shaped pond create a striking first impression, drawing visitors into a world of rich cultural heritage.

🌍 **Chinese Assembly Hall**: As the earliest established Chinese assembly hall, it was reportedly built during the Chenghua period of the Ming Dynasty (1465-1487). Serving as a communal gathering place for the local Chinese community, it plays a vital role in preserving and promoting Chinese culture.

In the courtyard, two rows of potted plants line the walkway, with the tallest pots at the entrance inscribed with the principles of “Public Ownership, Public Governance, Public Enjoyment” and “Nationality, Civil Rights, People’s Livelihood.” The white walls are adorned with a bold, red inscription that reads “Propriety, Justice, Integrity, and Shame,” emphasizing the core values of the community.

[Private Message R] PS: The ancient town is dotted with charming small coffee shops. If you find yourself needing a break from exploring, why not choose one to relax and savor a cup of coffee? The views from the second floor and the rooftop are especially breathtaking, offering a perfect spot to unwind and take in the scenic beauty [Wow R].