A Timeless City

Hoi An, nestled like a jewel along the picturesque central coast of Vietnam, is universally recognized as one of the destinations most loved by travelers who wish to deeply immerse themselves in the history and culture of the country. Once known as Faifo, this place played a crucial role as the most important commercial port in Southeast Asia between the 15th and 19th centuries, attracting merchants from China, Japan, India, and Europe. This extraordinary mixture of cultures, religions, and lifestyles has shaped a unique heritage: a tangible legacy that still vividly reflects today in the architecture of its streets, in its historical temples, and in the daily traditions of its inhabitants.

The Historic Center: A UNESCO Heritage Site

Strolling through the heart of the Ancient City of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, means taking a true leap back in time by centuries. The characteristics of low and yellow houses, often embellished with dark wood shutters and flowered balconies, the narrow pebble-paved streets, and the small, well-preserved internal courtyards silently tell the story of the prosperity of the merchants of the past. The architecture is a fascinating and harmonious weave of Oriental influences (as seen in the Chinese communal houses) and Western ones (visible in the French colonial touches). The most celebrated and iconic monument is undoubtedly the Japanese Covered Bridge (Chùa Cầu), built in 1593. This bridge not only connects two districts of the city but also serves as a temple and represents the undisputed symbol, almost the soul, of Hoi An.

The Ethereal Magic of Lanterns

If by day the city fascinates with its historical elegance and vibrancy, it is after sunset that Hoi An reveals its true magic. With the arrival of the evening, hundreds and hundreds of colored silk lanterns – of all shapes and sizes – light up, illuminating the streets with a warm and fairytale light that reflects spectacularly in the calm waters of the Thu Bon River. This spectacle reaches its peak during the Full Moon Festival (Hoi An Lantern Festival), which is held every month. On this special occasion, all the electric lights in the city are turned off to let Hoi An be brightened only by the soft light of the lanterns and floating candles that are released on the river, a propitiatory ritual that transforms the city into a place of pure suggestion and romanticism.

Craftsmanship and Tailoring Traditions

Hoi An non è solo storia, ma anche un dinamico centro di arti e mestieri. È universalmente riconosciuta come la capitale sartoriale del Vietnam. Le sartorie locali sono celebri in tutto il mondo per la loro rapidità e l'abilità: in meno di 24 o 48 ore è possibile farsi confezionare abiti, vestiti e scarpe su misura, scegliendo tra un vasto catalogo di tessuti e modelli con la consulenza esperta degli artigiani locali. Altro simbolo vivo della città sono le innumerevoli botteghe di lanterne, dove i visitatori possono osservare in prima persona il meticoloso processo di lavorazione, imparare a creare la propria lanterna in un workshop, o semplicemente acquistare un colorato e leggero ricordo da portare a casa.

Unique Flavors: The Cuisine of Hoi An

The multicultural heritage of Hoi An finds its maximum expression also in its excellent gastronomy, which boasts flavors and dishes hard to find elsewhere in Vietnam. The iconic and most famous dish is Cao Lau, an enveloping mix of thick noodles, fresh herbs, croutons, and pork, whose authenticity is linked to the traditional use of water coming from specific ancient wells in the city. Other specialties to definitely try are the delicate White Rose Dumplings (Bánh bao, Bánh vạc), transparent ravioli filled with shrimp that resemble the shape of a rose, and Hoành Thánh (fried wontons). The vibrant night markets, animated by spicy scents and dozens of stalls, offer the perfect opportunity to discover the best of authentic Vietnamese street food.

Beyond the City: Nature and Relaxation

The experience in Hoi An does not end within the walls of the ancient city. The surroundings offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in authentic experiences in contact with nature: it is possible to rent a bicycle for relaxing trips among the lush green rice paddies and cultivated fields, or undertake boat excursions on the river to visit fishing villages. For those seeking relaxation, the nearby beaches of An Bang and Cua Dai offer golden sand and a welcoming sea. The perfect combination of millenary culture, vibrant history, and enchanting natural landscapes makes Hoi An an unforgettable and deeply regenerating destination.