Hoi An Ancient Town is a well-preserved traditional trading port that thrived from the 15th to the 19th century, engaging in extensive trade with Southeast Asian and East Asian countries as well as other parts of the world. Its decline in the late 19th century allowed it to retain much of its traditional urban organization. The town reflects a blend of indigenous and foreign cultures, primarily Chinese and Japanese, later influenced by European styles, creating a unique way of life. In 1999, UNESCO designated it as a World Cultural Heritage site.
Hoi An Ancient Town features a remarkable collection of 1,107 wooden structures, including brick and wooden buildings that encompass historical, commercial, rural, and religious architecture, such as open-air markets, ferry docks, and pagodas. These structures are thoughtfully arranged along narrow pedestrian streets. The architectural style of Hoi An is influenced by Chinese, Japanese, and European cultures. Most buildings are in the Chinese style, characterized by gabled roofs, colorful tiled tops, hardwood columns, and decorative door panels. Some structures exhibit French classical architecture and courtyard designs, showcasing elegant shapes and graceful lines, with their façades adorned with sculptures from the Renaissance period. Most buildings have front doors opening to the streets and back doors leading to the riverside docks.
Today, Hoi An Ancient Town showcases the daily lives of its residents, with preserved structures like docks, wells, temples, and bridges reflecting the town’s historical ups and downs. Some even call it a living museum of urban life. You can rent a bicycle and leisurely ride through this charming town, slowly absorbing the happiness brought by its beautiful yellow facades.
Lanterns are a major highlight of Hoi An, adorning every corner of the ancient town. You can find a vibrant array of lanterns in various shapes and colors on doorsteps, hanging from ancient trees, and lining the streets. This decorative charm transforms Hoi An into a true world of lanterns.
Japanese Bridge
The Japanese Bridge, known as Lai Vien Bridge, is the only ancient bridge in Hoi An. Built in 1593 over a small river, it features a unique corridor design. At the bridge’s entrance stand two stone sculptures of a monkey and a dog, symbolizing that construction began in the Year of the Monkey and was completed in the Year of the Dog.
Assembly Halls
In the past, Hoi An was an important trading port, attracting many Chinese to engage in commerce. The Chinese community places great importance on geographic connections, leading to the establishment of assembly halls overseas, and Hoi An is no exception. These halls served as gathering places for the Chinese community and today, several assembly halls remain in Hoi An.
Chinese Assembly Hall: It is Hoi An’s oldest Chinese assembly hall, believed to have been established during the Ming Dynasty. It is also known as the “Foreign Merchant Hall” or “Jiang-Zhe Hall”. It houses stone tablets with inscriptions, including one from the sixth year of the Qianlong Emperor detailing the hall’s origins.
Fujian Assembly Hall: Established early and notable for its size, this hall originally started as a thatched-roof temple. It was purchased and renovated by Fujian merchants, transforming it into the prominent Fujian Assembly Hall we see today.
Cantonese Assembly Hall: This hall represents the unity of people from Guangdong and Zhaoqing. Its entrance features four striking dragon-patterned pillars, with many decorative elements added after being crafted in China.
Hoi An Ancient House
This historic home blends Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural styles, built by a merchant from the Le family. Managed by the seventh generation of the Le family, the house has withstood several floods due to its riverside location and remains well-preserved. The intricately carved beams and displayed antiques reflect the family’s and Hoi An’s rich historical legacy.
Thu Bon River
This is the main waterway flowing through Hoi An Ancient Town, which historically contributed to its status as a major trading port. Today, the Thu Bon River is less frequented by merchant ships and more by small boats, each carrying eager hearts ready to explore the town. In the evening, the riverbank comes alive; choose a restaurant or bar with a riverside view, savor delicious Vietnamese cuisine, and enjoy the stunning transformation of Hoi An as sunlight gives way to vibrant hues reflected on the water. As the sun sets and lanterns begin to glow, the scene becomes one of the most romantic in all of Hoi An.
