Hoi An Old Town Walking Tour – Lanterns, Legends & Local Life

Duration: 2 hours 30 minutes

Meeting Point: Ticket Booth at Song Hoai Square

Language: English

Overview

Hoi An is a former bustling international port with over 500 years of history. Its unique blend of architecture, vibrant street life, and ancient legends has earned it UNESCO World Heritage status.

On this walking tour, guests will explore hidden alleys, heritage landmarks, and authentic local culture alongside a professional local guide.

Detailed Itinerary

1️⃣ Song Hoai Square & Introduction to the Old Town

• Meet at Song Hoai Square, overlooking the peaceful Thu Bon River.
   
• Learn how Hoi An became the busiest trading port in Vietnam during the 16th century.
   
• Discover stories of multicultural communities: Chinese, Japanese, and European merchants.

2️⃣ Japanese Covered Bridge

• Visit Hoi An’s most iconic landmark, a 400-year-old bridge.
   
• Hear legends of the carp transforming into a dragon and the unique connection between Vietnam and Japan.

3️⃣ Tan Ky Ancient House

• Explore one of Hoi An’s oldest and best-preserved merchant houses.
   
• See how Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural styles blend together.

4️⃣ Hidden Alleys & Traditional Crafts

• Step into narrow backstreets that most tourists never see.
   
• Learn about local crafts: lantern making, wood carving, and pottery.
   
• Visit a small workshop and meet local artisans.

5️⃣ Ong Pagoda & Phuc Kien Assembly Hall

• Visit this centuries-old temple dedicated to Guan Yu (Quan Cong).
   
• Discover the importance of Chinese merchant guilds and the worship of Thien Hau, the Sea Goddess.

6️⃣ Hoi An Market – The Colors of Daily Life

• Walk through the lively market full of aromas and sounds.
   
• Discover signature ingredients like Hoi An fish sauce, mung bean cakes, and Central Vietnam herbs.

7️⃣ Optional Tasting Stop

• Enjoy a small local snack such as cao lau or Hoi An banh mi (at guests’ own expense).

8️⃣ Ending by the Thu Bon River

• Your guide will share recommendations for cafes, restaurants, and evening activities.
   
• Take memorable photos with colorful lanterns before saying goodbye.

Why This Tour Is Special

✅ Rich storytelling: Each stop is brought to life with unique stories and legends.

✅ Less crowded routes: We prioritize quiet backstreets over the busiest paths.

✅ Interactive experience: Meet artisans and taste authentic flavors.

✅ Personal touch: Guides offer tailored suggestions for your free time after the tour.

Meeting Point

Ticket Booth at Song Hoai Square

(Easy to find at the main entrance to the Old Town, near An Hoi Bridge.)