Hội An, Vietnam
Region: Quang Nam
Geographic Coordinates: 15.883300, 108.333000
Temperature Range: 20.0°C to 35.0°C (68°F to 95°F)
Climate: Seasonal climate patterns in Hội An, Vietnam include a hot and dry season from January to August, followed by a rainy season from September to December. Temperatures range from 20-35°C, with the highest rainfall occurring in October and November.
Population: 121716
Language: Vietnamese
Hội An is a historic and attractive town located in central Vietnam, Situated on the banks of the Thu Bon River. It is famous for its well-preserved ancient architecture, Vibrant lanterns, And bustling markets. The town was once a significant trading port during the 15th-19th centuries, Attracting merchants from China, Japan, And Europe. One of Hội An’s most iconic sights is the Japanese Covered Bridge. Built-in 16th century by Japanese traders to connect with Chinese merchants across the river; it features intricate carvings and beautiful paintings.
Visitors can also explore ancient temples such as Quan Cong Temple or Phuoc Kien Assembly Hall. The streets of Hội An are lined with traditional shophouses that have been converted into shops selling souvenirs, Clothing, And local crafts. Many visitors come to Hội An specifically for its tailors who can create custom-made clothes within a day or two. Hội An also boasts some of Vietnam’s best cuisine with dishes like cao lầu (noodles with pork and herbs), Bánh mì (Vietnamese sandwich), And fresh seafood caught daily from nearby rivers or oceans.
Another popular attraction is taking a boat ride along Thu Bon River at sunset when hundreds of colorful lanterns light up along both sides of the riverbank creating an enchanting atmosphere that leaves visitors spellbound. For those interested in learning about Vietnamese culture and history beyond just sightseeing attractions; there are several museums such as Museum of Folk Culture or History Museum which offer insights into local customs dating back centuries ago.
Overall Hội An offers something for everyone whether you’re interested in exploring ancient temples or shopping for souvenirs while enjoying delicious Vietnamese food; this charming town has it all!
Important Landmarks
- Hoi An Ancient Town
- Japanese Covered Bridge
- Tan Ky Old House
- Quan Cong Temple
- Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation
- Cua Dai Beach
- Hoi An Night Market
- Tra Que Vegetable Village
- Thanh Ha Pottery Village
- Cham Island
Primary Industries
The Major Industries and Businesses in Hội An, Vietnam
- Tourism
- The largest industry in Hội An due to its UNESCO World Heritage site status which attracts millions of visitors annually.
- The town has numerous hotels, resorts, restaurants, and shops that cater to tourists.
- Agriculture
- Also a crucial sector in Hội An with rice being the primary crop cultivated in the region.
- Other crops such as vegetables and fruits like lychee and mangoes are also grown.
- Handicrafts
- Another significant industry with many local artisans producing traditional products such as silk lanterns, pottery items like tableware or vases, wood carvings and embroidery items such as tablecloths or cushion covers.
- Fishing
- Also a significant source of income for locals living near the coast who catch various species of fish including anchovy and mackerel which they sell at local markets or export to other countries.
Noteable History
- Hội An was a significant trading port in Southeast Asia from the 16th to the 17th century, attracting merchants from China, Japan, India, and Europe.
- The Japanese Covered Bridge is an iconic landmark of Hội An that was constructed by the Japanese community in the 16th century.
- The Old Town of Hội An has earned UNESCO World Heritage Site status due to its well-preserved architecture and cultural importance.
- Nguyễn Phúc Chu, a member of Vietnam’s ruling Nguyễn dynasty from 1802 to 1945, had his palace located in Hội An during his reign.
- During the Vietnam War era, both North Vietnamese forces and American troops utilized Hội An as a base.
- Notable figures associated with Hội An include Trần Thị Lý (1924-1989), a Vietnamese revolutionary who fought against French colonialism and later served as Minister of Health in post-war Vietnam; Huỳnh Phú Sổ (1920-1947), founder of Cao Đài religion; and Nguyễn Du (1766–1820), one of Vietnam’s most renowned poets who authored The Tale of Kieu – an epic poem that narrates a young woman’s journey through life’s challenges.
Museums and Things To See
- Hội An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that boasts well-preserved buildings and streets from the 15th-19th centuries.
- The Japanese Covered Bridge is a stunning bridge that was built in the 16th century and has become an iconic symbol of Hội An.
- The Museum of Trade Ceramics showcases the history and importance of ceramics in Vietnamese culture, particularly during the time when Hội An was a major trading port.
- The Assembly Hall of Fujian Chinese is a colorful temple built by Chinese merchants in the 17th century dedicated to their ancestors and deities.
- Quan Cong Temple is another temple dedicated to a revered Chinese general, Quan Cong, known for his loyalty, integrity, and justice.
- An Bang Beach is one of Vietnam’s most beautiful beaches with white sand, clear water, and plenty of beachside cafes and bars to relax at.
- Tra Que Vegetable Village is an organic farming village where visitors can learn about traditional farming techniques used by locals for generations while picking fresh vegetables for themselves or cooking classes.
- Cham Island is an offshore island home to many coral reefs; it’s perfect for snorkeling or diving trips.
- Thu Bon River offers boat rides along this river which flows through Hoi An ancient town while enjoying stunning sunset views.
- The Museum of Folk Culture offers insight into local culture including traditional music performances, folk games & crafts demonstrations.
Sports Teams
- Hội An Football Club: The club was founded in 2014 and currently plays in the Vietnamese Third Division. They play their home games at the Hòa Xuân Stadium.
- Hội An Basketball Club: The club was established in 2016 and competes in local tournaments and leagues. They practice at the Phúc Lộc Thọ Gymnasium.
- Hội An Volleyball Club: The club was formed in 2015 and participates in regional volleyball competitions. They train at the Nguyễn Du Sports Center.
- Hội An Swimming Club: The club was created to promote swimming as a sport among children and youth in the city of Hoi An.
Overall, sports are not as popular as other activities such as tourism or agriculture in this region of Vietnam, so there are not many professional teams or big events hosted here compared to other cities like Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi.
Cultural Events
- Hội An Lantern Festival is a monthly event that takes place on the 14th day of the lunar calendar. During this festival, thousands of colorful lanterns light up the town.
- The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as Tet Trung Thu, celebrates the harvest season and features dragon dances, lanterns, and mooncakes.
- The Full Moon Festival occurs on the night of a full moon each month and includes traditional music performances and street food vendors.
- The Hội An International Food Festival is an annual event that showcases cuisine from around the world and features cooking demonstrations by celebrity chefs.
- Celebrate New Year’s Eve in style at the Hội An New Year’s Eve Countdown Party with live music performances, fireworks displays, and street food vendors.
- On September 2nd every year, Hội An hosts parades and cultural events to commemorate Vietnam’s independence from France in 1945 during Vietnamese National Day Celebration.
- The Cham Cultural Heritage Festival is a biennial event that celebrates Vietnam’s Cham ethnic minority group through music, dance performances, and traditional crafts exhibitions.
- Held every two years in July or August, Quang Nam Heritage Festival showcases Quang Nam province’s rich history and cultural heritage through art exhibitions, concerts fashion shows etc..
Cuisine
- Cao lầu is a noodle dish that’s unique to Hội An and features pork and greens.
- Bánh mì Phượng is a famous sandwich shop in town that offers a variety of fillings.
- Mi Quang is another noodle dish that includes shrimp, pork, and herbs.
- White Rose dumplings are steamed dumplings filled with shrimp and served with dipping sauce.
- Com Ga Ba Buoi is a chicken rice restaurant known for its flavorful chicken and fragrant rice.
- Madam Khanh – The Banh Mi Queen – runs another popular banh mi shop in the area.
- Morning Glory serves traditional Vietnamese dishes at their restaurant location.
- Cargo Club Cafe & Restaurant is an excellent spot for breakfast or brunch while in Hoi An.
- Reaching Out Tea House is known for serving delicious tea and snacks in their beautiful tea house setting.
- The Market Restaurant & Cooking School offers classes on how to make traditional Vietnamese dishes followed by lunch or dinner at their restaurant location.
Parks and Recreation
- Hội An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its traditional architecture and cultural attractions.
- Cửa Đại Beach is a popular destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- An Bang Beach is another beautiful beach with white sand, clear water, and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Tra Que Vegetable Village is a farming community where visitors can learn about traditional Vietnamese agriculture and participate in activities like planting rice or harvesting vegetables.
- The Thu Bon River Cruise offers scenic boat rides along the river that provide stunning views of Hội An’s old town.
- The Marble Mountains are a cluster of five limestone mountains that offer hiking trails, caves, pagodas, and panoramic views of the surrounding area.
- Ba Na Hills is a mountain resort with cable cars, amusement parks, gardens, temples, and restaurants that provide an enjoyable day trip from Hội An.
- My Son Sanctuary is another UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring ancient Hindu temples built by the Champa civilization between the 4th and 14th centuries AD.
- Visitors to Hội An can explore nearby villages or countryside areas at their leisure on various cycling tours while enjoying fresh air and scenic landscapes.
- Many cooking schools in Hội An offer hands-on classes to teach visitors how to cook authentic Vietnamese dishes using local ingredients such as herbs or fish sauce.