Climate and region of Hoi An
Hoi An is located in Central Vietnam along the central coast, sharing a similar climate with nearby cities like Da Nang and Hue. Unlike northern and southern Vietnam, which follow distinct summer and winter monsoons, Central Vietnam experiences a different weather pattern with a dry season and a rainy season.
- Dry season: February to August
- Rainy season: September to January
These seasons do not align with those in Hanoi (North Vietnam) or Ho Chi Minh City (South Vietnam). For example, while January is part of the dry season in southern Vietnam, it is still the rainy season in Hoi An. This regional variation is important for travelers planning multi-destination trips in Vietnam.
Weather in Hoi An in January
January is one of the coolest months in Hoi An, with temperatures ranging between 18°C and 24°C (64°F to 75°F). This is lower compared to the hot months from May to August, making it a comfortable time to explore the city.
Rainfall in January is still possible, as the rainy season is coming to an end, but it is much lighter than in November and December. The showers tend to be scattered rather than prolonged. Humidity is lower than in the peak rainy months, and evenings can feel slightly chilly, especially near the water.
Beach holiday in Hoi An in January
January is not an ideal month for a beach holiday in Hoi An. The rainy season is ending, but the sea remains rough and unpredictable, with stronger currents and higher waves than in the dry season. The water is not as clear, and some beachfront resorts may still have limited beach facilities due to erosion from previous storms.
Temperatures around 18-24°C (64-75°F) make it cooler than the peak summer months, which might not be warm enough for long sunbathing sessions. While some days can be sunny, cloudy weather is still common. If you’re set on a Vietnam beach holiday in January, destinations further south, like Phu Quoc or Con Dao, offer much better conditions.
Is Hoi An worth visiting in January?
Yes, Hoi An is worth visiting in January, especially for its historical charm and cultural atmosphere. While it is still the rainy season, it is at the end of it, meaning less frequent showers and cooler temperatures around 18-24°C (64-75°F). With an umbrella or rain poncho, exploring the Ancient Town is still enjoyable, as it rarely rains all day.
However, January is not great for beach activities, as the sea remains rough and the weather is often cloudy. If you are looking for a relaxing beach holiday, it’s better to visit later in the year. But for walking through lantern-lit streets and enjoying Hoi An’s famous architecture, January is a comfortable time to visit.
Best things to do in Hoi An in January
January is a great time to explore Hoi An’s cultural and historical sites, as the cooler temperatures make walking around the city comfortable. While it is still the end of the rainy season, rain is usually lighter and less frequent than in previous months. Some activities, like beach visits, are not ideal, but there are still plenty of things to do.
Hoi An when it rains
Don’t let the rain stop you from exploring! Many activities in Hoi An are still enjoyable with an umbrella or rain poncho. For more ideas on how to make the most of Hoi An in the rain, check out our full guide: Hoi An when it rains
1. Walking through the old town
Hoi An’s Ancient Town is the city’s highlight, known for its yellow-walled houses, lantern-lit streets, and well-preserved architecture. Even in January, with occasional rain, it remains a beautiful place to explore. The mornings often have less rain, so it’s best to start your day early. If it does rain, simply carry an umbrella or rain poncho—the narrow streets and covered walkways make it easy to continue exploring.
2. Boat trip over the Thu Bon River
A boat ride on the Thu Bon River is a scenic way to see Hoi An from the water. Boats are covered, so even if it rains, you can still enjoy the ride. Along the way, you can visit traditional craft villages, such as Kim Bong Carpentry Village and Thanh Ha Pottery Village, where artisans have been practicing their crafts for generations.
3. Join a cooking class
Hoi An is one of the best places in Vietnam to take a cooking class. Many classes start with a market visit before heading to a local kitchen to prepare classic Vietnamese dishes. Some classes also include a trip to Tra Que Vegetable Village or a bike ride, which can still be fun even in light rain. If the weather isn’t ideal, you can skip the outdoor activities and focus on the cooking experience.
4. Create some tailor-made clothing
Hoi An is famous for its tailor shops, where you can get custom-made clothing within a few days. January is a great time to visit a tailor, especially if you need an indoor activity on a rainy day. With hundreds of tailors in town, you can get anything from dresses and suits to leather shoes and handbags.
5. My Son day trip
The My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO-listed site, is one of the most important Cham ruins in Vietnam. January is a good time for a half-day trip, as the weather is cooler than in the hotter months. It’s best to start early in the morning, as there is a higher chance of rain in the afternoon. The site is partially covered by jungle, so some shelter is available if it does rain.
Events and festivals in January
Tet – Vietnamese New Year
Tet (Vietnamese New Year) is the most important holiday in Vietnam, celebrated in late January or early February, depending on the lunar calendar. In the weeks leading up to Tet, Hoi An is decorated with red banners, kumquat trees, and traditional ornaments as businesses and families prepare for the new year.
During Tet itself, many places in Vietnam close, but Hoi An remains one of the best places to visit, as more shops, restaurants, and hotels stay open compared to other cities. On New Year’s Eve, there are fireworks and cultural performances in town. For a full guide on celebrating Tet in Hoi An, check here: Vietnamese New Year in Hoi An
Lantern festival
Hoi An’s Lantern Festival takes place every full moon when the town switches off its electric lights, leaving the streets illuminated only by colorful lanterns. While the festival itself happens once a month, lanterns light up the streets throughout January, creating a beautiful atmosphere every evening. There are no major celebrations apart from the full moon night, so you can enjoy the lantern-lit streets any time.
Travel tips for January in Hoi An
What to bring
January is one of the coolest months in Hoi An, with occasional rain and lower temperatures. While it never gets cold, it’s best to bring:
- Light rain jacket or poncho – rain is still possible as it’s the end of the rainy season.
- Warmer layers – a light sweater or jacket for the evenings and early mornings.
- Comfortable walking shoes – streets can be wet, so water-resistant shoes are useful.
Accommodation availability
January is low season in Hoi An, meaning accommodation is more affordable and widely available. The only exception is Tet, when hotels may book out earlier, and prices can temporarily rise due to increased demand from both international and domestic travelers.
