Hoi An - An amazing city to tour and learn Vietnam's History

Hoi An is a perfect combination of sophisticated Japanese architecture, sumptuous Chinese architecture and symmetric French architecture in idyllic Vietnamese lifestyle. All the architecture from the olden days of Hoi An seaport, the most thriving port in South East Asia, is preserved and intact. On one side, there are plenty of small, lovely houses and on the other side is Thu Bon River. The Japanese covered bridge is considered the symbol of Hoi An. It was built by the Japanese community in the early seventeenth century. The bridge’s ornamentation remains faithful with the original design. In contrast, Vietnamese and Chinese designs are usually vividly decorated. The original arched shape of the roadway is the best demonstration of Japanese culture. As a recent estimation, there are around 1,400 vestiges include: tombs, pagodas, temples, bridges, wells, churches and houses scattered on small streets.

In the olden days, Hoi An was one of the major ports for the Chinese, Arabians, Indians and Persians. That’s why Hoi An still keeps some special trade products such as: incense, cinnamon, ivory pearl, silk, tortoise, nacre and so on. Tourists will have plenty of choices for souvenirs.  In addition, Hoi An provides a very distinctive service to tourists: tailor-made customized clothes. The tailors in Hoi An, are considered the most talented in Vietnam.

Hoi An has two distinct seasons a dry and a wet rainy season. The wet or rainy season runs from September to January, the dry season is from February to August. Whereas, the hottest time in Hoi An falls between May and August. If you enjoy swimming, diving or snorkeling, the dry hot season is a perfect time for you to travel to Hoi An. Every month on the 15th day according to the lunar calendar, Hoi An celebrates the full-moon festival. On the night of the full moon, all the electric lights will be replaced by lanterns, lighting up the small streets by moonlight and beautiful multicolor lanterns. During this event they ban all motorbikes, so it’s safe for tourists to roam around and leisurely gaze at the shops. On the river, people will send off paper boats carrying candles to bring their wishes of happiness and peace. Children on the streets dress up like dragons and dance around the local shops.

The Hoi An lifestyle is as natural in simplicity, as its people. Hoi An is a small city of well-behaved and friendly people and a great place to travel in Vietnam. They believe in traditional values and deep relationships among people in society. If you’d love to teach your children about lessons in love and respect, the people of Hoi An would be ideal role models.

The lunar January full moon festival is coming soon and as a Chinese tradition, they will celebrate the first full moon in a very special way therefore it’s the biggest event of year. I would highly recommend a trip to Hoi An during this time, since it’s an amazing experience that you’ll never forget.