Explore local life in Hoi An

As you disembark at Da Nang Airport, our courteous guide will be there to greet you. They will then escort you to your charming hotel in Hoi An, where you'll check in and settle in for the day. Enjoy this free afternoon at your leisure, soaking in the ambiance of this unique city.

Hoi An's Rich Tapestry of History

Hoi An is a city that embodies a rich tapestry of history, a prosperous port from the 16th to 19th centuries. It once hosted merchants from China, Japan, India, Indonesia, and Europe, who came to trade in silk, spices, and porcelain. The UNESCO World Heritage Old Quarter of Hoi An bears witness to this history, impeccably preserved with ornate pagodas, ancient trading houses, and weathered tile-roofed shops. The city's architecture is a captivating blend of Chinese, Japanese, Vietnamese, and European influences, with its historic buildings now housing art galleries, boutique restaurants, bars, and cafes. Beyond the city's bustling streets lie picturesque countryside landscapes, echoing traditions of farming and fishing, complemented by pristine sandy beaches featuring modern seaside resorts.

Today, embark on a captivating walking tour through the charming Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has remained virtually unchanged over the centuries. Your guide will pick you up at your hotel, setting the stage for an unforgettable day of exploration. Strolling through the well-preserved streets of Hoi An, you'll discover a city that offers moments of tranquility and peace, a unique blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. The city's most exceptional views are found within the ancient houses, offering glimpses of a bygone era and a fleeting window into a simpler time.

The tour encompasses visits to renowned Ancient Houses, characterized by their remarkable architecture, Assembly Halls influenced by Chinese design, Art Craft Manufacturing Workshops, and, of course, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge. These houses bear the mark of Chinese and Japanese architectural styles, as historical accounts suggest that these cultures established themselves here for trade and residence. These ancient houses offer a fascinating fusion of Eastern and Western architectural elements.

After lunch, you'll proceed to Bach Dang Dock, where you'll board a boat, offering a unique perspective of Hoi An's vibrant daily life. Your journey continues to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, providing insights into the daily routines of local residents.

In the 16th and 17th centuries, Thanh Ha was a thriving village known for its earthenware. These products were distributed to various provinces throughout central Vietnam. Here, you'll witness the complete process of creating pottery, from vases to pots, kettles, and cooking pots. You'll then embark on a boat trip to visit Kim Bong Carpentry Village. Many of Hoi An's historic structures were constructed by their forebears during the town's peak as a commercial port. In Kim Bong Village, you'll witness artisans practicing their craft and visit ship-building yards. The craftsmanship of Kim Bong Carpentry combines the influences of the Cham Kingdom, China, Japan, and Vietnam, brought to life by the skilled hands of Vietnamese craftsmen. The journey concludes as you return to Hoi An by boat.

This morning, escape the bustling streets of the city for a tranquil bicycle tour through the serene countryside surrounding Hoi An. Begin your adventure by biking to Tra Que, a charming village known for its cultivation of herbs and vegetables. The scenic route to Tra Que meanders through lush rice paddies and rural landscapes, offering breathtaking vistas. Upon arriving in Tra Que, witness the traditional farming practices, where manual labor replaces modern machinery. Here, you'll personally handpick fresh vegetables and herbs, which you'll later use in your cooking lesson. Your next destination is the local village market, where, armed with a shopping list, you'll procure an array of local ingredients. Following this, you'll continue to a local family's house in Tra Que, where you'll have the chance to experience a traditional foot massage, a soothing soak in warm herbal water, and other local treatments before your cooking class. You'll work in tandem with a skilled family chef to master the art of preparing Vietnamese cuisine from scratch, utilizing the freshest ingredients and traditional Vietnamese utensils that are still in use today. The meal you prepare is an experience to savor.

In the afternoon, bid farewell to your host family before embarking on a bicycle ride to the fishing village and water coconut forest in Cam Thanh. This village, which served as a refuge during the Vietnam War, is now renowned for its seafood production. Upon reaching the village, fishermen will guide you in traditional bamboo basket boats, providing insights into their unique fishing methods. Cycle back to your hotel after an eventful day.