What makes Hoi An so special? 40+ places to visit in Hoi An that captivates travelers

It's so simple and idyllic, but makes everyone who has set foot there feel nostalgic and lingering and desire to return to this time-sleeped city again. If you have yet to explore the ancient town, please immediately refer to 40+ places to Visit in Hoi An in this article of Hoi An Memories Land to discover Hoi An has that makes domestic and foreign tourists so fascinated!

1. Vintage architecture tinged with time

Not lavish or flashy, the ancient town brings simplicity and tranquility, where tourists can find old values ​​of the past. A distinctive feature among them are the houses with ancient architecture - one of the important factors that make the whole city seem to wear the old and worn coat of time. Walking around Hoi An ancient town, you will see many different types of architecture, each style telling a story of the past. One of the outstanding architectural styles in Hoi An can be mentioned as:

• Original architecture (from the 18th century): Primarily original houses with simple architecture. During the war between Tay Son and Lord Trinh, most of these houses were seriously destroyed.
• Single-story house architecture (1770 - 1850): This is the oldest architectural style in Hoi An with roofs often covered with one or two floors.
• Two-story house (1850 - 1888): With the development of Hoi An port, shops and merchant families began to build houses with a ground floor and one floor for living space and storage.
• Colonial architecture (1888 - 1954): Significantly influenced by French architecture with typical features such as shutters, curved domes and exquisitely carved columns. However, the colonial architecture in Hoi An was not built by French colonists but by Chinese traders.
• Cross-cultural architecture (1930 to present): A combination of colonial and two-story houses architecture. Additionally, the cross-cultural architecture also incorporates a plank door pattern, delicately combined with the balcony railing and interspersed with the traditional tile roof:

Looking for detailed places to Visit in Hoi An? Below are 10 ancient typical houses of Hoi An, which should be on every traveler's Hoi An travel guide:

1. Tan Ky ancient House: 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc street, Hoi An city

A stunning example of Hoi An's wooden architecture, Tan Ky House boasts intricate carvings and well-preserved interiors. Explore the house's various rooms and learn about the merchant family who once lived there.

>>> See more: 15 Must-Do Experiences in Hoi An: Hidden Gems and Local Delights

2. Tran family's ancient church: 21 Le Loi street, Hoi An city

This unique blend of Chinese and European styles reflects Hoi An's rich cultural heritage. Admire the church's ornate facade and discover the fascinating history behind its construction.

Tran family's ancient church is blended of Chinese and European styles

3. Phung Hung ancient house: 4 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai street, Hoi An city

A harmonious fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese architectural elements, Phung Hung House is a testament to the town's trading history. Immerse yourself in the house's tranquil courtyard and appreciate its elegant design.

4. Duc An ancient house: 129 Tran Phu street, Hoi An city

Step into the past as you explore this charming house with its traditional courtyard layout. Discover the intricate details of the wooden architecture and imagine life as a merchant in Hoi An.

5. Quan Thang ancient House: 77 Tran Phu street, Hoi An City

This impressive house showcases the wealth and status of its former owners. Marvel at the beautiful carvings and decorations while learning about the family's history.

>>> Discover more: What makes the architecture of Hoi An Ancient Town unique?

6. Diep Dong Nguyen ancient house: 80 Nguyen Thai Hoc street, Hoi An city

A prime example of Hoi An's wooden architecture, this house is a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Admire the intricate details of the wood carvings and explore the house's various rooms.

Diep Dong Nguyen ancient house is a masterpiece of craftsmanship

7. Thai Phien ancient house: 104 Thai Phien street, Hoi An city

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city in the peaceful ambiance of Thai Phien House. Enjoy the beauty of the house's garden and appreciate the traditional architectural style.

8. Tang family's ancient church: 16 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, Hoi An City

A significant religious building in Hoi An, this church showcases a unique blend of architectural styles. Discover the church's historical importance and admire its intricate details.

9. Truong family's ancient church: 69/1 Phan Chu Trinh street, Hoi An city

This charming church is a must-visit for history and culture enthusiasts when tourists are looking for some architectural places to Visit in Hoi An.  Explore the church's interior and learn about the religious practices of the Truong family.

10. Ancient house area in Minh An ward, Hoi An city

Immerse yourself in the authentic charm of Hoi An by exploring this picturesque neighborhood. Wander through the narrow streets, admire the traditional houses, and experience the local lifestyle.

>> Read more: Hoi An - an ideal workstation for work enthusiasts and travel lovers

Ancient houses in Hoi An - One of the most famous places to visit in Hoi An

2. What makes Hoi An special? - Delicious food worthy of being considered the culinary capital of Vietnam

To answer the question of what makes Hoi An special, one cannot overlook the rich and diverse culinary scene of this Central Vietnamese region. The cuisine is considered one of the seven reasons that propelled Hoi An to the list of the most worthy-visit cities in Southeast Asia, according to CNN Travel. Hoi An's renowned dishes are characterized by simple preparation, avoiding extravagance or pretentiousness. Instead, they maintain a traditional charm that has endured for centuries.

Not only does it bring the breath of the Middle Coast, Hoi An ancient town culinary is also a harmonious fusion of cuisines from many countries, especially China. During the 17th - 18th centuries, Hoi An was an extremely busy and bustling trading port for Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese and Western countries. Hence, the ancient town cuisine reflects the culture of these countries. Below are 10 delicious dishes in Hoi An that every visitor should try, according to our Hoi An travel guide:

11. Mi Quang

A flavorful noodle dish featuring turmeric-stained noodles, topped with a rich peanut sauce, herbs, and your choice of protein. Its unique taste profile and vibrant colors make it a must-try.

12. Cao Lau

This Hoi An specialty boasts a distinctive taste due to the use of water from the Thu Bon River. The thick, chewy noodles are served with crispy pork skin, bean sprouts, and fresh herbs.

Cao Lau boasts a distinctive taste

13. Pancakes

Enjoy a crispy, savory pancake filled with a delicious blend of ingredients like shrimp, pork, and scallions. These bite-sized treats are perfect as a snack or appetizer.

14. Bread

Indulge in fresh, crusty bread, a legacy of Hoi An's French colonial past. Enjoy it plain or filled with your favorite ingredients for a satisfying meal.

>>> Explore more: Hoi An's Best-Kept Secrets: Local Eateries You Won't Find in Guidebooks

15. Wet Cake Rolled with Grilled Meat

This refreshing dish features delicate rice paper rolls filled with grilled pork or beef, accompanied by fresh herbs and dipping sauce. A light and flavorful option.

16. Banh Dap

A simple yet satisfying dish of crushed rice cakes topped with savory ingredients like pork floss, dried shrimp, and scallions. A popular street food enjoyed by locals and tourists alike.

Banh Dap Hoi An - A popular street food enjoyed by locals and tourists

17. Banh Bao - Banh Vac

These steamed rice cakes are a delightful treat. Banh Bao is filled with savory pork and mushrooms, while Banh Vac is topped with shrimp and scallions.

18. Banh Beo

Tiny, delicate rice cakes topped with ground pork, shrimp, and scallions, served with a sweet and sour dipping sauce. A must-try for food enthusiasts.

19. Chicken rice

A classic dish featuring tender, flavorful chicken served with fragrant rice and a variety of accompaniments. A comforting and satisfying meal.

20. Corn sweet soup

A sweet and refreshing dessert made with corn kernels cooked in a creamy coconut milk broth. Enjoy the natural sweetness of the corn and the rich flavor of the coconut milk.

>>> See more: Must-try sweet soups for tourists visiting Hoi An

Hoi An Corn sweet soup

3. What makes Hoi An special? - Fast track Ao Dai Tailoring

An exceptional feature unique to Hoi An is the fast-track Ao Dai tailoring service. In just a few hours, tourists can have a tailor-made Ao Dai, perfectly fitted to their measurements, ready to "shine" on the streets for check in immediately. Amidst the ancient space of the ancient town, Ao Dai is a perfect illustration, bringing you impressive photos. Below are 10 reputable and high-quality Ao Dai tailoring addresses in Hoi An, a must-have experience in your Hoi An travel guide:

21. Yaly: 358 Nguyen Duy Hieu street, Hoi An city

Renowned for its modern production line and exquisite designs, Yaly offers a wide range of fabrics and styles for your perfect Ao Dai. With multiple locations in Hoi An, it's easy to find the perfect fit.

>>> Find out more: Experiences not to be missed when coming to Hoi An ancient town

22. A Dong Silk: 40 Le Loi street, Hoi An city

Specializing in silk Ao Dai, A Dong Silk offers high-quality fabrics and expert tailoring. Their attention to detail ensures a stunning final product.

A Dong Silk offers high-quality fabrics and expert tailoring

23. Lana: 130 Tran Phu street, Hoi An city

Known for its quick turnaround time without compromising quality, Lana is a popular choice for travelers with limited time in Hoi An. Enjoy personalized service and a beautiful custom-made Ao Dai.

24. Bao Khanh Silk: 101 Tran Hung Dao street, Hoi An city

Offering a diverse selection of silk fabrics and designs, Bao Khanh Silk caters to various tastes and preferences. Their experienced tailors create elegant and flattering Ao Dai.

25. Thu Thuy: 60 Le Loi street, Hoi An city

With a strong reputation for quality and customer satisfaction, Thu Thuy provides a seamless tailoring experience. Choose from a variety of fabrics and styles to create your dream Ao Dai.

>>> See more: 10+ festivals in Hoi An to help you shine in Ao Dai

26. B'lan Silk: 23 Tran Phu street, Hoi An city

This tailor shop offers a unique blend of traditional and modern designs. Their use of high-quality silk fabrics results in luxurious and elegant Ao Dai.

B'lan Silk - One of colorful places to Visit in Hoi An

27. Minh Hue: KP7, Thanh Ha Ward, Hoi An city

Located in the charming Thanh Ha village, Minh Hue offers a personalized and authentic tailoring experience. Immerse yourself in the local culture while creating your custom Ao Dai.

28. Bebe Tailors: 05 - 07 Hoang Dieu street, Hoi An city

Catering to a younger clientele, Bebe Tailors offers trendy and modern Ao Dai designs. Their fast turnaround time and friendly service make it a popular choice.

29. Nam Ngai Silk: 93 Tran Phu street, Hoi An city

With a focus on high-quality silk fabrics, Nam Ngai Silk creates elegant and sophisticated Ao Dai. Their experienced tailors ensure a perfect fit and impeccable craftsmanship.

30. Camly Tailor Hoi An: 58 Tran Cao Van street, Hoi An city

Offering a wide range of fabrics and styles, Camly Tailor Hoi An provides excellent value for money. Their friendly staff and efficient service make the tailoring process enjoyable.

>> Read more: What souvenirs should you buy when traveling to Hoi An?

4. What does Hoi An have? - Traditional craft villages - A place to preserve timeless values

Hoi An not only has a long ancient town with centuries-old houses, but also possesses traditional Hoi An craft villages - places that create impressive handicrafts and fine arts products, associated with the development of Ancient Hoi An trading port.

Hoi An's traditional craft villages are not only one of places to Visit in Hoi An for tourists to explore the culture, history, and check in, but also a place for tourists to immerse themselves in nature, space, and ancient times nostalgic things. Here, tourists can engage in hands-on experiences, creating traditional products or transforming into authentic farmers. Below are 10 famous traditional craft villages in Hoi An, offering unique experiences for travelers following our Hoi An travel guide:

31. Thanh Ha Pottery Village

Immerse yourself in the world of pottery as you witness skilled artisans shaping clay into beautiful objects. Explore the village's history and unique pottery techniques.

Thanh Ha Pottery Village in Hoi An

32. Hoi An silk village

Discover the intricate process of silk production, from silkworms to stunning fabrics. Learn about the rich history of silk weaving in Hoi An and admire the delicate craftsmanship.

33. Lantern making craft village

Witness the magic of lantern making as skilled artisans create colorful and intricate lanterns by hand on lantern making craft villages. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of this charming village.

34. Kim Bong carpentry village

Explore the world of woodworking as you marvel at the intricate carvings and detailed craftsmanship of the local artisans. Learn about the village's rich tradition of carpentry.

35. Tra Que Vegetable Village

Tra Que is one of the most prominent places to Visit in Hoi An that captivates most travelers. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the peaceful countryside. Learn about traditional farming techniques and enjoy a delicious vegetarian lunch.

Tra Que Vegetable Village in Hoi An

36. Ban Thach mat village

Discover the art of mat weaving, a traditional craft that has been passed down through generations. Witness the intricate process of creating these beautiful and functional products.

>>> Explore more: Hoi An in a Day: Worth the Hustle?

37. Phuoc Kieu bronze casting village

Witness the ancient art of bronze casting, a fascinating process that has been practiced for centuries. Learn about the history of this craft and admire the intricate bronze objects.

38. Cam Ha kumquat village

Experience the sweet aroma of kumquats as you explore this charming village. Learn about the cultivation of this unique fruit and enjoy delicious kumquat-based treats.

39. Thanh Nam Fishing Village

Immerse yourself in the daily life of a fishing community. Witness the colorful boats and experience the local way of life along the river.

40. Cam Nam fishing net weaving village

Discover the intricate art of fishing net weaving, a vital skill for local fishermen. Learn about the process and appreciate the craftsmanship behind these essential tools.

5. What makes Hoi An special? - The most impressive show in Hoi An in the world

One of the remarkable color palettes that help make the picture of Hoi An more impressive is the impressive show in Hoi An - Hoi An Memories. The grandeur and attraction of this real scene show is so great that it makes Reuters news agency had to exclaim that it was "a global phenomenon", "spectacular effects", "sophisticated props", "complex and expressive dance", "the most eye-catching", "the most beautiful" in the world, etc. Below is some specific information about the impressive show in Hoi An - Hoi An Memories:

• Main content: Telling about Hoi An more than 400 years ago, giving the audience a glimpse of the history and culture of Hoi An ancient town, from the early days of reclamation and establishing hamlets to the prosperous trading port period and finally a Hoi An full of sediment but also extremely dynamic. All meaningful messages are conveyed to the audience through sound, lighting, dance and professional expressions of the actors,
• The impressive show in Hoi An is divided into 5 stages: Life; Wedding; Lamp and Sea; Integration; Ao Dai. 
• Location: Hoi An Memories Land at 200 Nguyen Tri Phuong Street, Hoi An City.
• Performance Schedule: Every day at 8:00 PM, excluding Tuesdays.
• Duration of the impressive show in Hoi An: 60 minutes.
• Audience: All ages and nationalities. This is a show with very few dialogues and sections with lyrics translated into English on a large screen to help tourists easily grasp show information.

The distinctive features of the impressive show in Hoi An - Hoi An Memories

Discover why 'Hoi An Memories' is hailed as the most impressive show and one of the places to Visit in Hoi An that you should not miss:

• Guinness Vietnam has recognized the Hoi An Memories show with two important records: "The daily artistic show with the largest actors" and "The artistic show with the largest outdoor performance stage."
• On November 11, 2022, during the World Travel Awards ceremony in Oman, Hoi An Memories Land was honored as the "World Leading Entertainment Destination 2022." Following that, on December 1, 2023, the World Travel Awards once again acclaimed Hoi An Memories Land as the "World Leading Cultural & Entertainment Tourism Complex 2023". After these awards, Hoi An Memories Land became a prominent name in domestic and foreign media. The Hoi An Memories Show has played a vital role in achieving these significant accolades.
• In 2019, Hoi An Memories was honored with the "Leading Historical Spectacle Show" award by Wanderlust Tips, a bilingual magazine, during the Best Hotels - Resort Awards ceremony.
• In 2020, the prestigious Tripadvisor Travellers Choice Awards also recognized Hoi An Memories Land as one of the impressive destinations worldwide.
• In 2019, Hoi An Memories show continued to receive "The Guide Awards" for "The best real scene show with cultural and historical value in Vietnam".
• On March 14, 2019, the Hoi An Memories show became the first Vietnamese artistic show to be honored to premiere at Times Square, New York.

>> Read more: Why must you watch "Hoi An Memories" - a scenography Vietnam show?

Hoi An Memories Show has received many prestigious awards

6. Conclusion

The ancient yellow walls, teal green door frames, moss tiled roofs, rich cuisine, traditional craft villages, Ao Dai tailoring service and even the impressive show in Hoi An - Hoi An Memories, all are the most "photogenic" elements in Hoi An. Hopefully 40+ places to visit in Hoi An in this article have partly answered the question "What is there in Hoi An" and thereby help tourists have more ideas to explore the ancient city? Wishing you a trip to Hoi An where time seems to stand with many interesting memories.