hoian

Hoi An is a city in Quang Nam Province in central Vietnam, located on the lower Thu Bon River near the coast. It is best known for its well-preserved ancient town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and for its architectural blend that reflects Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences.

Historically, Hoi An served as a major international port from the 15th to the 19th centuries, facilitating trade between Vietnam and merchants from across Asia and beyond. The town’s wealth during this period left a legacy of diverse buildings, including assembly halls, temples, warehouses, and family houses that retain much of their original character despite later changes in trade routes.

The Old Town features landmarks such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and Tan Ky House. Its architecture ranges from Chinese-influenced guild halls to wooden houses and portions of French colonial influence, all set along a network of narrow streets and riverside fronts that preserve the historic atmosphere.

Today, Hoi An is a major tourist destination known for pedestrian-friendly streets, lantern-lit evenings, tailor shops, and regional cuisine such as cao lau, banh mi, and mi quang. The city hosts a monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival when streets are illuminated with colorful lanterns and traditional performances occur along the river.

Its cultural significance and preserved historic core led to the designation of the Old Town as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, with ongoing efforts to balance tourism with conservation and heritage protection.