What is Hoi An Ancient Town?
Hoi An Ancient Town is the historic center of Hoi An, a former trading port in central Vietnam. The area is remarkably well preserved and recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll find centuries-old architecture, including merchant houses, temples, and Chinese assembly halls. Many of these old shophouses have been transformed into cozy cafés, tailor shops, galleries, and boutiques. The town is also famous for its colorful lanterns, which make the streets especially atmospheric at night.
History of Hoi An Ancient Town
The history of Hoi An Ancient Town dates back to the 16th and 17th centuries, when it served as one of Southeast Asia’s busiest international trading ports. Thanks to its strategic location by the river and close to the sea, merchants from Japan, China, India, and later Europe arrived here to trade silk, ceramics, spices, and other goods. These cultural exchanges left a lasting mark on the town’s architecture, with Japanese bridges, Chinese assembly halls, and French colonial influences blending into one unique heritage landscape.
Hoi An’s prosperity declined in the late 18th century when the river silted up and trade shifted to Da Nang. While this shift halted economic growth, it also meant the old town avoided modern redevelopment, preserving its original layout and buildings. Today, Hoi An is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site — not just for its architecture, but also for the cultural continuity and living history it represents. Walking through the ancient streets offers an authentic view of Vietnam’s rich past.
Location & getting to Hoi An Ancient Town
Where is Hoi An Ancient Town?
Hoi An Ancient Town is located in central Vietnam, in the heart of the small city of Hoi An. The ancient town itself is the historical core, surrounded by quieter neighborhoods, green countryside, and beach areas like An Bang and Cua Dai. It’s about 30–40 minutes south of Da Nang, the region’s main transport hub.
How to get to Hoi An
Hoi An doesn’t have its own airport or train station. The nearest city, Da Nang, is the main gateway:
- Da Nang International Airport – Offers domestic flights and international connections to several Asian cities.
- Da Nang Railway Station – On the north-south Reunification line with trains from Hanoi, Hue, Nha Trang, and Ho Chi Minh City.
From Da Nang, you can reach Hoi An by:
- Shuttle bus or minivan (often arranged through hotels or agencies)
- Taxi or Grab (30–45 minutes depending on traffic)
For long-distance travel, there are also:
- Direct buses and night buses to Hoi An from cities like Ninh Binh, Hanoi or Nha Trang
- Limousine vans offering more comfortable transport between nearby destinations like Da Nang, Hue, and Quy Nhon
Visiting information & Tickets to Hoi An Old Town
Hoi An Ancient Town isn’t a closed-off area — there are no gates or fences, and you can walk in freely at any time of day. You don’t need a general entrance ticket just to explore the streets. However, if you want to visit certain historical attractions in Hoi An old town, like assembly halls, ancient houses, and museums, a ticket is required.
Opening times
The old town itself doesn’t have set opening hours, since it’s a public area. You can walk around any time, day or night.
Shops and cafés usually open from 8:00 AM until 9:00–10:00 PM. Bars and nightlife spots stay open until around 1:00 AM. Attractions like museums and ancient houses typically close by 5:00 or 6:00 PM.
Is a ticket to Hoi An Old Town needed?
You don’t need a ticket to simply stroll around or enjoy the streets, markets, and cafés. The Hoi An ancient town ticket is only required to enter a selection of preserved heritage sites.
This includes places like old merchant houses, assembly halls, temples, and museums — the main attractions in Hoi An old town.
Hoi An Ancient Town Ticket Price and What’s included
The Hoi An old town ticket costs 120,000 VND per person (approx. $5).
With one ticket, you can choose 5 sites from a list of about 20 attractions. These include:
- Ancient houses like Tan Ky and Phung Hung
- Chinese assembly halls
- Temples and pagodas
- Museums (e.g., Culture Museum, Folklore Museum)
- The Japanese Covered Bridge (inside only, not to cross it)
Where to buy the ticket
Tickets can be purchased at small booths around the entrances to the old town. The most common spots are:
- Near the Japanese Bridge
- At the corner of Le Loi and Tran Phu Street
- Near the Central Market
These ticket points are clearly marked, and staff will usually offer help in English. You can also get a map with the list of included sights.
Getting around the Old Town of Hoi An
On foot
Hoi An Ancient Town is compact, flat, and perfect for walking. Most streets are narrow and closed to cars, especially in the afternoon and evening. Motorbikes are also restricted at certain times of day, making it safe and easy to explore on foot. You’ll see more this way — from old houses and hidden cafés to shops and temples tucked along side streets.
By bicycle
Cycling is a great option if you’re staying outside the Old Town — in the countryside or near the beach. Many homestays and hotels offer free bikes, and it’s usually only a 15–20 minute ride into town. However, once you arrive in the old town itself, a bike isn’t very useful. The area is small, often crowded, and best explored on foot. From one end to the other takes just a few minutes walking, and it’s easier to stop for shopping or photos without worrying about traffic.
Cyclo ride
For a more relaxed and traditional way to explore, you can hire a cyclo — a three-wheeled bicycle taxi. Cyclos do short loops through the old town and are great if you want to sit back and enjoy the views. While not the fastest way to get around, it’s a fun experience and a charming throwback to older times in Vietnam.
Sights and attractions in Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An Ancient Town is packed with history and charm. Below are the top attractions to visit — from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. These sights are part of what makes the old town a UNESCO World Heritage Sit
1. Streets and Old Shophouses
Hoi An Old Town itself is one of the main attractions. Just walking through the narrow streets lined with yellow-painted buildings and tiled rooftops already gives you a sense of the city’s past. Many of these old merchant houses date back hundreds of years and reflect a unique mix of Chinese, Japanese, and French architectural influence.
Today, the old buildings are home to small shops, tailor stores, cafés, and galleries. The mix of restored facades and original structures creates an atmosphere that feels both historical and lively. These streets are especially photogenic at dusk, when the lanterns light up and cast a soft glow over the Ancient Town.
2. Japanese Covered Bridge
The Japanese Bridge in Hoi An is the most famous landmark in the Ancient Town and a symbol of the city. It was built in the early 1600s by Japanese merchants to connect the Japanese and Chinese quarters. The structure is a blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architectural styles—with wooden beams, tiled roofs, and guardian statues of monkeys and dogs at both ends.
You can walk across the bridge at any time, and while it’s not long, it’s historically important and photogenic, especially at night when it’s lit by lanterns. Entry is free, although the attached temple inside the bridge may require a ticket as part of the Ancient Town pass.
3. Chinese Assembly Halls
The Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An Ancient Town were built by different Chinese communities as meeting places, temples, and cultural centers. They are some of the most ornate and colorful buildings in the old town, known for their detailed woodwork, tiled courtyards, and shrines. Most of them are included in the Hoi An Old Town ticket.
Fujian Assembly Hall (Phuc Kien)
The Fujian Assembly Hall is one of the most popular attractions in Hoi An. Originally built in 1690, it was dedicated to Thien Hau, the sea goddess believed to protect sailors and fishermen. It features a large courtyard, elaborate gates, dragon statues, and a main altar with incense coils hanging from the ceiling.
This is the most visited and impressive of all the assembly halls, located on Tran Phu Street in the center of the Ancient Town.
Cantonese Assembly Hall
The Cantonese Assembly Hall, built in 1885, is another striking site. It’s dedicated to Quan Cong, a revered general known for loyalty and bravery. The highlight here is the large dragon statues carved from wood and stone, and the colorful mosaic decorations throughout the hall.
Like the Fujian hall, it’s located right in the heart of Hoi An Old Town and often included in most self-guided walking routes.
Trieu Chau Assembly Hall
The Trieu Chau Assembly Hall (Chaozhou Hall), built in 1845, is slightly smaller but very detailed. It was built by the Teochew (Trieu Chau) Chinese community and is dedicated to the god of wind and sea, General Phuc Ba. The wood carvings and ceramic motifs here are especially intricate, making it worth a short visit even if you’ve seen the larger halls.
4. Merchant Houses in Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An’s merchant houses are among the most unique attractions in the old town. These historic homes were once owned by wealthy traders and families who lived and did business here during the town’s peak as a port. Many houses have been preserved and are open to visitors, giving a glimpse into Hoi An’s commercial past and daily life centuries ago.
Most merchant houses combine Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles, with wooden beams, tiled roofs, and inner courtyards. Inside, you’ll find original furniture, altars, photos, and antiques.
Tan Ky Old House
The Tan Ky House is the most well-known merchant house in Hoi An. Built over 200 years ago, it has been home to seven generations of the same family. The house is a great example of Hoi An’s multicultural past, with Japanese-style beams, Chinese carvings, and Vietnamese floor tiles.
Visitors can walk through the living areas and learn about the family’s history and how the house was used for trading and rituals. It’s located near the Japanese Bridge and usually included in the Ancient Town ticket.
Phung Hung Old House
The Phung Hung House is another historic home, over 100 years old. It has two stories and large wooden balconies, designed to handle flooding from the nearby river. The house was both a residence and a trading space, and you can still see the merchant counters, old documents, and traditional furniture.
The architecture reflects both Chinese and Vietnamese styles, and the caretakers often explain the meaning behind the design.
Quan Thang House
The Quan Thang House is less visited but very well preserved. It was built by a Chinese merchant family and has remained nearly unchanged. The house features some of the most beautiful wooden carvings in Hoi An, especially around the doors and altars. It’s quieter than Tan Ky or Phung Hung, so you can often explore it in peace.
5. Temples & Pagodas in Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An’s temples and pagodas reflect the city’s deep spiritual traditions and blend of Chinese and Vietnamese culture. Many are quiet places of worship, while others are more decorative and historical. Most are still active religious sites where locals come to pray or light incense, but they’re also open for respectful visitors.
Below are some of the most notable temples and pagodas in the old town, many of which are included in the Hoi An Old Town ticket.
Quan Cong Temple
The Quan Cong Temple is one of the most important temples in Hoi An. It was built in the mid-1600s and is dedicated to General Quan Cong, a Chinese military hero known for loyalty and justice. The temple is filled with incense smoke, red pillars, golden statues, and decorative altars. A statue of Quan Cong, with his long beard and fierce expression, sits at the center.
You’ll find it near the central market, and it’s one of the busiest temples in the old town.
Ba Mu Pagoda (Chua Ba Mu)
The Ba Mu Pagoda is a more peaceful and less crowded spot in Hoi An. It’s most famous for its striking triple-arched gate, which makes a great photo backdrop. The pagoda itself is small and simple, with a small pond and shaded courtyard behind the gate. Originally part of a larger temple complex, much of it was destroyed, but the restored gate and remaining structures are worth a short stop.
It’s located just outside the main pedestrian zone and is free to enter.
Minh Huong Pagoda
The Minh Huong Pagoda is a smaller and lesser-known site, but it holds historical value. It was built by the Minh Huong Chinese community, descendants of Chinese immigrants who supported the Nguyen dynasty. The pagoda is dedicated to ancestors and protective spirits, and its architecture combines classic Chinese motifs with Vietnamese temple elements.
It’s a quiet spot not far from the Japanese Bridge, good for a short, respectful visit if you’re nearby.
6. Central Market (Hoi An Market)
The Central Market in Hoi An is the busiest and most authentic market in the old town. Located near the riverside on Tran Phu Street, it’s a great place to experience the local daily life — especially in the morning when it’s full of energy. Here, locals shop for fresh vegetables, meat, seafood, and household goods, while tailors browse fabrics from dozens of textile stalls.
You’ll find everything from tropical fruit and dried herbs to kitchenware, souvenirs, and street food.
Inside the market hall, there’s a popular food court where you can try local dishes like Cao Lau, Mi Quang, White Rose dumplings, and fresh spring rolls — all at local prices. The small eateries are basic but the food is often delicious.
It can get hot and crowded, especially midday, so it’s best to visit before 10 AM. Keep an eye on your belongings, and expect to haggle (respectfully) at most non-food stalls.
Tip: If you’re joining a Hoi An cooking class, this is often the market where it starts.
7. Museums in Hoi An
Hoi An’s museums are small but offer insight into the city’s rich cultural layers — from trade and architecture to local customs and ethnic groups. Most museums are located within walking distance of each other in the old town and are included with the Hoi An Old Town ticket.
Museum of Folk Culture
The Museum of Folk Culture gives a glimpse into daily life and traditional practices in the region. It displays farming tools, fishing equipment, clothing, and ritual objects from various ethnic groups in Central Vietnam. The old merchant house that hosts the museum adds to the charm. Look out for short explanations in English and some interactive exhibits.
Museum of Sa Huynh Culture
Located near the Japanese Bridge, the Museum of Sa Huynh Culture focuses on the ancient Sa Huynh civilization, which predated the Cham people in Central Vietnam. Exhibits include pottery, jewelry, burial jars, and tools — mostly found during archaeological digs in the area. It’s one of the few places where you can learn about Hoi An’s prehistory.
Hoi An Museum of Trade Ceramics
Housed in a beautiful restored building, the Museum of Trade Ceramics highlights Hoi An’s historic trade relations with China, Japan, India, and Europe. On display are centuries-old ceramics, historical trade maps, and models of old ships. It’s a quiet stop that helps explain Hoi An’s place in the international trading world during the 16th–18th centuries.
Precious Heritage Museum
Unlike the others, the Precious Heritage Museum is a private gallery by French photographer Réhahn. It showcases stunning portraits, stories, and traditional costumes from Vietnam’s ethnic minority groups. This museum is outside the paid-ticket system and free to enter. It’s more modern and visually striking than the others — definitely worth visiting.
For a full comparison, check our dedicated guide: Best Museums in Hoi An
Things to do in Hoi An Ancient Town
Hoi An Ancient Town isn’t just about sightseeing — it’s also full of small experiences that give you a feel for daily life and culture. Whether you want to walk through lantern-lit streets, go shopping, or join a cooking class, there are plenty of things to do in Hoi An Old Town that go beyond its historical sights. This section highlights the top activities you can enjoy in and around the ancient town.
1. Explore on Foot
Walking is the best way to experience Hoi An Ancient Town. The area is compact, pedestrian-friendly, and largely closed to motor traffic during parts of the day, especially late afternoon and evening. You can explore the small alleys, step into heritage houses, browse shops, and take your time admiring the architecture.
Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful streets before the day gets busy.
2. Explore Hoi An Ancient Town by Night
At night, Hoi An transforms. Thousands of lanterns light up the streets and river, creating a colorful and romantic atmosphere. The riverbank area becomes lively with markets, musicians, and evening cafés.
Read more: Things to do in Hoi An at Night
3. Cyclo Ride
Want a traditional way to see the old town without walking too much? Hop on a cyclo — a three-wheeled bicycle taxi. It’s a slow, relaxing way to see the sights and a fun photo opportunity. Many cyclos follow a short loop through the old streets.
4. Tailor-Made Clothing
Hoi An is famous for custom-made clothes. From suits and dresses to shoes and bags, you can have items designed, tailored, and ready in 1–2 days. Shops are everywhere in the old town, often with lookbooks or the option to copy a favorite item you already own.
Read more: Hoi An Tailors – Complete Guide to Custom Clothing
5. Shopping at Night Market or Boutiques
Hoi An Old Town is full of shops: lanterns, handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs. The night market across the bridge (on An Hoi Islet) is popular in the evening for affordable finds and snacks.
Read more: Hoi An Night Market – Best Places to Shop After Dark
6. Lantern Boat Ride at Night
One of the most iconic things to do in Hoi An is a short boat ride on the river at night. You’ll float a candle in a paper lantern and watch it drift with the current. These rides are short (10–15 minutes) and easy to arrange at the riverside.
Read more: Hoi An Boat Rides – Prices and options
7. Lantern Making Workshop
Learn how to make your own traditional lantern from bamboo and silk. These workshops are fun, hands-on, and you get to take your lantern home. Most are located in or near the old town.
Read more: Hoi An Lantern Workshops
8. Try Local Street Food
Don’t leave Hoi An without tasting its signature dishes like Cao Lau noodles, White Rose dumplings, and crispy Banh Xeo. You’ll find everything from street food stalls to stylish restaurants tucked into old houses.
Read more: Street food in Hoi An
9. Coffee culture
Hoi An has a strong café culture. Many cafés are in heritage buildings with cozy decor, and some offer rooftop views over the rooftops and river. Try a coconut coffee or the unique egg coffee.
Tip: Visit rooftop cafés before late afternoon to get the best light and quieter atmosphere.
10. Take a cooking class
A great way to experience Vietnamese cuisine is by learning to cook it yourself. Most classes start with a market tour and include hands-on cooking of several dishes. Some include basket boat rides or trips to herb gardens.
Read more: Best Cooking Classes in Hoi An
Best time to visit
Best time of year
The best time to visit Hoi An Ancient Town is from February to April. During these months, the weather is usually dry and warm, without the intense heat of summer or the heavy rains of the wet season. Avoid October and November if possible, as this is peak rainy season and flooding sometimes occurs in the old town.
Best time of day
Early morning (before 9 AM) is the quietest time. Streets are calm, lighting is soft for photos, and shops begin to open. It’s a great time for a peaceful walk and to avoid the heat.
Evenings are the most atmospheric, with lanterns lit up all around the town and along the river. However, this is also the busiest time, especially around 6–9 PM.
Hoi An Lantern Festival
On the 14th day of each lunar month, Hoi An celebrates the Lantern Festival. The town turns off most electric lighting in the evening, and colorful lanterns take over. It looks magical — even more than a regular night — but it also draws large crowds. Unless you’re very interested in photography or the atmosphere, it might not be worth changing your itinerary just for this.
Read more: Hoi An Lantern Festival (including the exact dates)
Where to stay – Hoi An Old Town & Surroundings
There are very few hotels inside Hoi An Ancient Town itself. Most old buildings are preserved shop houses, so accommodations within the historic core are limited and often very small homestays. If you want to stay in the center of the action, there are a hotels just outside the walking zone, within a few minutes’ walk.
That said, you don’t need to stay directly next to the old town unless you plan to visit multiple times a day. If you’re only planning to explore once or twice, staying a bit further out gives you more choices — and often better value.
Popular areas to stay
- Countryside: Around Hoi An you’ll find peaceful homestays and boutique resorts set among rice fields and small canals. Most places offer free bicycles, and it’s usually just a 10–20 minute ride to the old town.
- Hoi An Beaches: An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach are about 4–5 km from the center. Great if you want to combine beach time with a few visits to the old town. Both areas have hotels, beach bars, and relaxed cafés.
Read more:
- Where to Stay in Hoi An (including comparing all the areas)
- Best Hotels Near Hoi An Old Town
Tips for visiting Hoi An Ancient Town
Avoiding crowds
Hoi An Ancient Town is beautiful, but it does get busy — especially in the evening. Some enjoy the lively atmosphere, others might prefer it quieter. For fewer people, go very early in the morning. Even mid-day is often calmer, especially when it’s hot — many local tourists avoid walking around during peak heat. Nights (especially weekends) are the busiest, with the most crowds around 7–9 PM when the lanterns are lit.
Dress code
There’s no specific dress code for walking around Hoi An Old Town, but if you plan to visit temples or pagodas, bring something to cover your shoulders and knees. While it’s not very strict, it’s respectful and appreciated.
What to bring
There are plenty of restaurants and cafés, but not many convenience stores. Bring a bottle of water, especially in warmer months. While many places accept cards, local eateries and market stalls often don’t, so bring some cash, preferably smaller bills.
Where to eat
Hoi An Old Town has many restaurants. Most menus are tourist-friendly with local dishes and sometimes Western options. Prices tend to be a bit higher than in other parts of town. There are still some budget spots if you look around. For a wider selection of international food, especially Western, consider An Bang Beach.
Read more: Best Restaurants in Hoi An
Do you need a guide?
You don’t need a guide to visit Hoi An Old Town. The area is compact, easy to navigate, and designed for exploring at your own pace. While a guide can give more historical background and local insights, the charm of the old town is wandering on your own — visiting heritage sites, stopping at cafés, and browsing shops as you go. It’s one of those places best enjoyed slowly, without a fixed plan.
