Hoi An Vietnam what to do: 6 Traditional folk games you must try

Hoi An Vietnam what to do isn’t just about sightseeing or dining—it’s about immersing yourself in traditions that have lived on through generations. From the golden glow of lantern-lit streets to the rhythmic beats of communal games, Hoi An offers more than charm—it invites you to play, connect, and rediscover the joy of simple, cultural moments. In this guide, Hoi An Memories Land reveals why traditional folk games are among the most meaningful experiences you can have in this timeless town.

Traditional Folk Games - A Preserved Cultural Gem of Hoi An

Hoi An isn’t just known for its timeless architecture and poetic riverside—it also thrives on traditions that continue to beat through its festive nights. Among them, traditional folk games breathe life into public squares and quiet corners, offering travelers an authentic glimpse into the community spirit of the ancient town.

Bai choi - one of the folk games you must-try when visiting Hoi An

As the sky darkens and lanterns begin to glow, the laughter of children, the calls of game hosts, and the rustle of eager footsteps transform the old town into a lively playground of heritage. These games aren't simply activities—they’re echoes of a culture that has lived on for generations.

Top 6 Must-Try Traditional Folk Games in Hoi An

As you wander the old streets of Hoi An, don’t miss the chance to join in the joy of these unique folk games. They’re not hidden behind walls or stages—they unfold naturally in open spaces, inviting everyone to take part.

1. Bài Chòi Singing

Along the banks of the Hoài River or in An Hội Sculpture Garden, a circle of bamboo huts is set up, where each participant waits with three handmade cards in hand.

The Chòi game caller stood on the "main hut" and sang a folk song

At the heart of the circle, the Chòi game caller (anh Hiệu, chị Hiệu) stands tall on the central “chòi cái” (main hut) singing each card’s name in a rich, melodic chant. Their voice carries stories, humor, and local wisdom, drawing in both players and passersby alike. When a song matches a card in your hand, you tap the small mõ and declare your delight.

Each correct match earns a flag. Collect three, and you win—a charming Hoi An lantern, glowing with local pride.

But in truth, no one plays Bài Chòi just to win. It’s the music, the crowd’s laughter, and the shared connection through verse that leave the deepest impression.

2. Hoi An Vietnam what to do for children: Hit the Hanging Clay Pots (Đạp niêu đất)

Energetic and full of surprise, Đập Niêu Đất is a traditional game that sparks instant joy. A clay pot is suspended above the ground. You’re blindfolded, handed a bamboo stick, spun a few times to disorient you—and then the cheering begins.

Hit the Hanging Clay Pots

"Left! Right! A little higher!"—your friends’ voices become your guide as you try to locate and smash the elusive pot. Inside, simple prizes await, but the true reward lies in the excitement and shared laughter of the moment.

Đập Niêu Đất is especially beloved during festivals, and when the pot shatters and the crowd bursts into applause, you realize this isn’t just a game—it’s a celebration of being present, playful, and part of a living tradition.

3. Oral Folk Song Tradition

Not all folk games are about movement—some nurture the soul through sound. In Hoi An, the oral folk song tradition is held not in formal halls, but in the most intimate of settings: on simple mats laid out under the evening sky.

An Oral Folk Song Tradition class

This unique “class” welcomes anyone who shares a love for folk music. There are no desks, no stages—just a few guiding voices of “big brothers” and “big sisters” who lead the group through lyrical verses passed down for generations. Participants are given small notebooks of songs and encouraged to sing along, gradually learning by heart through joyful repetition.

It’s a poetic encounter where visitors and locals connect beyond language, through rhythm and memory. Whether you’re young or old, seasoned or new, this gentle gathering invites you into the heartbeat of Hoi An’s spiritual legacy.

4. Human Chess

Stepping into a square outlined on the ground, real people take the place of traditional chess pieces. With every move, the audience holds their breath—because this isn’t just a game of strategy, it’s a choreographed display of elegance and discipline.

In Hoi An Vietnam what to do: joining Human chess

Human chess in Hoi An is typically held during festivals in spacious areas like Kazik Park or along Bach Dang Street. Each "piece" is guided by players wielding colorful fans or rods, who command their team with theatrical flair. It’s not just a contest of intellect, but a showcase of Hoi An’s ability to turn even the simplest tradition into a dramatic art.

The vibrant costumes, symbolic gestures, and spirited crowd make this a memory that lingers long after the final move is made.

5. Mandarin Square Capturing (Ô ăn quan)

Joining Mandarin Square Capturing at Hoi An Impression Theme Park

Among Vietnam’s most beloved childhood games, Mandarin Square Capturing is a test of logic and foresight. Simple materials like chalk lines and small pebbles are all it takes to begin—but within those lines lies a world of strategic play.

Two players sit across from each other, each tasked with capturing the most “pieces” through clever moves. The board, drawn on the ground, forms a rectangle with crescent-shaped “mandarin” squares at each end. As the game progresses, a quiet intensity builds—every handful of stones captured, every calculated move brings the players closer to victory.

Though silent and slow-paced compared to other games, Mandarin Square Capturing reflects the thoughtful spirit of Hoi An’s people: measured, clever, and deeply connected to their heritage.

6. Sack Race

Sack Race

No complicated rules or materials are needed here—just a large sack, a clear starting line, and a cheerful willingness to jump. The sack race is filled with laughter, cheers, and the occasional tumble, creating an atmosphere that is enjoyable for both players and spectators.

This popular festival game invites participants to jump to the finish line while holding onto their sacks. It is suitable for both adults and children. Families visiting Hoi An can join this game to strengthen their relationships and create beautiful memories.

Tips for Participating in Traditional Folk Games in Hoi An

Experiencing these games is more than just play—it’s about joining a living tradition. To help you enjoy them fully, here are some thoughtful suggestions before you dive in.

Before you step into the joy-filled spaces of Hoi An’s folk games, take a moment to prepare. These tips ensure you not only participate but truly feel the rhythm of local life.

Learn the Rules in Advance

Each game has its own charm and structure. Whether it's the card-matching of Bài Chòi or the tactics behind Mandarin Square Capturing (Ô Ăn Quan), having a basic understanding of how the games are played helps you connect more deeply—and play more confidently.

You’ll often find locals or guides nearby who are more than happy to explain the rules. Their warm hospitality is part of the experience.

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Choose Festival Times

The traditional folk games come alive most vibrantly during special festivals like the Full Moon Festival or Tet... The crowd is more lively, the costumes brighter, and the energy unmistakably festive. If your trip coincides with these events, you’ll witness the folk games in their most spirited form—surrounded by music, lanterns, and cultural celebration.

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Join with a Group of Friends

Folk games are best enjoyed with company. Gather a group of friends or fellow travelers, and you’ll find yourselves laughing, bonding, and maybe even winning together. The collective joy of shouting “Tới!” in Bài Chòi or racing in sacks is a shared memory worth creating.

FAQ about Traditional Folk Games in Hoi An

Where are Traditional Folk Games in Hoi An Held?

You'll find the cheerful energy of traditional folk games woven into the very fabric of the city. The primary hub for these activities is the Hoi An Ancient Town, especially along Nguyen Phuc Chu Street and within the popular An Hoi Sculpture Garden. 

You'll discover a vibrant hub of traditional games at Hoi An Impression Theme Park

Beyond the ancient town, you'll discover a vibrant hub of traditional games at Hoi An Impression Theme Park, nestled on Hoi An Memories Land. Here, you can witness or even try your hand at a variety of folk games, including hitting the clay pots, bài chòi, and mandarin square capturing. What's more, you'll have the incredible opportunity to experience the spectacular Hoi An Memories Show, offering a deeper understanding of the spirit and beauty of this timeless land.

>>> Discovery Hoi An Memories Show - Must see show in Vietnam

Is There a Fee to Participate in Traditional Folk Games?

For the most part, you can watch and enjoy the atmosphere for free. However, some specific games require a small fee to participate, such as the exciting hit the hanging clay pots challenge. Rest assured, the joyful and memorable experience is well worth the minor cost. Additionally, if you wish to join more specialized workshops, like an oral singing class led by a local artisan, there may be a separate fee for their expert instruction.

Which Traditional Folk Games Are Suitable for Children?

Hoi An offers a wonderful variety of games perfect for younger visitors! If you are traveling with children, they will absolutely love the engaging strategy of mandarin square capturing and hit the hanging clay pots challenge. The simple fun of Sack Racing is another guaranteed hit. For a unique cultural experience, consider enrolling them in a beginner's oral singing class, which is a fantastic and interactive way to introduce them to the region's artistic heritage.

So, when you ask, "What to do in Hoi An, Vietnam?", the answer isn't just found in a museum or on a plate of Cao Lầu. It echoes in the cheerful shouts of a pot-smashing game and the melodic verses of Bài Chòi. These six traditional games offer more than just a way to pass the time; they are your invitation to step directly into the cultural heartbeat of this ancient town. Therefore, on your next visit, let your curiosity guide you. Listen for the sound of laughter carried on the evening breeze, put down your map, and dare to join in. In Hoi An, the most unforgettable memories are often the ones you play for.

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