Strolling through Hoi An feels like stepping into a beautiful postcard. The streets are narrow and lined with colourful old buildings, glowing lanterns, and lively little shops. You can wander by the riverside, pop into cafés, and soak up the sights, sounds, and smells of the town. Everywhere you turn, there’s something charming or unexpected, making a walk through Hoi An feel like a relaxed, magical journey!

Strolling through the Old Town

With its historic buildings and blend of European and Asian architectural styles, a leisurely walk through Hội An is full of sights to admire. The town’s original street layout is largely intact, and 844 of its 1,107 buildings are UNESCO World Heritage–listed.

The Lantern Festival of Hoi An

If you’re looking for extra beauty, time your visit with the lantern festival, held on the 14th day of every lunar month when the moon is full. At night, the town dims its electricity, letting the candle-lit lanterns shine. Find a spot along the river to watch lanterns drift by for good luck, or hop on a boat and release one of your own with a wish before heading back to your stay at a Hoi An hotel of the likes of the Anantara Hoi An Resort. 

Fabric Shopping and Hoi An Textiles

For a truly immersive experience, check out the Hội An Cloth Market, where more than 50 stalls overflow with fabrics in every colour and texture, and sellers eagerly invite you to browse. It can be a bit overwhelming, so stay calm and get ready to sharpen your bargaining skills. If you prefer a calmer pace, visit one of the town’s many tailors—fabric is included, so no need to hunt for it yourself.

Image by André Botelho from Pixabay

The Culture of the Covered Japanese Bridge

In the 15th century, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Portuguese merchants began settling around Hội An’s port, forming distinct communities that naturally interacted over time. Around 1593, the Japanese built a bridge to connect their neighbourhood with the Chinese quarter. Legend has it that the bridge was also meant to calm Namazu, the mythical Japanese catfish said to cause earthquakes.