Hoi An is a soft dream. The Old Town is a perfectly preserved trading port that once connected East and West. Japanese, Chinese, French, and Vietnamese influences converge in the yellow-walled buildings and winding alleyways that glow with lantern light at dusk.
Suggested Time: 3–4 days
Best For: Architecture, tailoring, food, and cultural immersion
There’s something deeply poetic about Hoi An — its silence at sunrise, its bustle at night, and the timeless rhythm of the Thu Bon River cutting through it all.
Things to do in Hoi An:
- Walk or cycle the lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town (UNESCO listed)
- Visit My Son Sanctuary (UNESCO listed)
- Get custom clothing made from local tailors
- Take a cooking class or taste local dishes like Cao Lau and White Rose dumplings.
- Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, built in the 16th century
What to Wear: Light clothing and breathable fabrics. The heat can linger into the evening.
Be Mindful Of: The rising cost of living for locals — shop consciously, and be generous with small vendors.
Conscious Travel Note: Choose homestays over large hotels. Seek out tailor shops that employ local artisans with fair working conditions.
