Discover the spirit of Hoi An Old Town
There is something quietly mesmerizing about Hoi An Old Town. Once a vital trading port, it remains today a peaceful mosaic of centuries-old architecture, cultural fusion, and time-honored rituals. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An ancient town draws visitors not just with its charm, but with the feeling it leaves behind—a sense of stillness, nostalgia, and connection.
Best things to do in Hoi An
Take a Lantern-Making Workshop
One of the most authentic experiences in Hoi An Ancient Town is crafting your own lantern. These colorful silk lanterns are symbols of luck and prosperity. Joining a workshop not only gives you a deeper appreciation for local craftsmanship but also lets you bring home a handmade souvenir full of memories.
Visit the Local Markets at Dawn
Wake up early and head to the central market or the riverside fish market, where locals trade fresh produce and seafood. It’s an ideal moment to witness daily life unfold in Hoi An Old Town, away from the tourist crowds. Try bargaining like a true local!
Enjoy a Sunset Boat Ride on the Thu Bon River
As the sun dips low, the town glows with lantern reflections dancing on water. A wooden boat ride on the Thu Bồn River offers a serene way to take in the timeless beauty of Hoi An Ancient Town, especially as the lanterns begin to light up.
Taste Local Delicacies Like Cao Lau and White Rose Dumplings
Among the best things to do in Hoi An is indulging in its unique cuisine. Be sure to try cao lầu, a noodle dish found only in Hoi An, and white rose dumplings, a delicate local specialty. For a refined experience, restaurants like Hội An Sense in Saigon recreate these dishes in a Vietnamese fine dining setting, bringing the soul of Hoi An to the heart of the city.
Explore the Countryside by Bicycle
Just beyond the ancient streets of Hoi An Old Town lies a peaceful countryside filled with rice paddies, lotus ponds, and coconut groves. Rent a bicycle and take a slow ride through Tra Que Village or Cam Thanh to experience the rural charm of Vietnam. It’s a refreshing contrast to the busy old quarter, and one of the best things to do in Hoi An for travelers seeking nature, tranquility, and authentic village life
The Culinary Identity of Hoi An
The cuisine of Hoi An ancient town reflects a rich and nuanced history. It is shaped by trade routes, climate, and generations of refined technique. While many dishes have become iconic, Hội An Sense takes inspiration from this heritage and offers its own carefully curated interpretations.
Signature dishes from Hoi An Ancient Town that have inspired the menu include:
- Cao Lau – A celebrated noodle dish with a unique chewy texture, paired with braised pork, herbs, and crispy rice crackers. Believed to have been influenced by Japanese and Chinese culinary styles, it is a symbol of Hoi An’s fusion.
- White Rose Dumplings – Elegant and delicate, filled with shrimp and shaped like blooming flowers. Hoi An Sense, the presentation is elevated to highlight its beauty and craftsmanship.
- Grilled Pork Skewers with Rice Paper Rolls – A beloved Hoi An specialty where guests roll their own using rice paper, herbs, pickled vegetables, and a signature dipping sauce. The dish encourages interaction and connection at the table.
Each of these is not replicated in exact traditional form but rather interpreted with modern care—light, balanced, and thoughtfully plated to suit contemporary tastes while evoking the soul of Hoi An old town.
Recreating the Hoi An Old Town Atmosphere at Hội An Sense
A Contemporary Take on Hoi An-Inspired Cuisine
At Hội An Sense, the flavors of Hoi An ancient town are interpreted with sensitivity and imagination. The menu draws inspiration from heritage, but each dish is thoughtfully adapted—lightened, layered, or restructured to reflect evolving tastes. Rather than strict tradition, it is a modern reflection of Hoi An’s culinary soul—refined yet familiar, respectful yet inventive.
Evoking the Essence of Hoi An Through Space and Ritual
At Hội An Sense, the atmosphere evokes the elegance of a traditional Hoi An residence—not through nostalgic mimicry, but through architectural authenticity. The space is defined by a grand, high-ceilinged wooden structure made entirely from rare lim wood, creating a sense of permanence and serenity.
Rather than aged bricks or rustic finishes, the aesthetic here is both warm and polished. The glow of silk lanterns suspended above a central koi pond adds a vivid touch of color and movement—reflecting not only tradition, but the living vibrancy of Hoi An ancient town. The space is quiet yet radiant, refined yet emotionally inviting.
Cultural Expressions that Complete the Experience
More than a meal, a visit to Hội An Sense includes cultural expressions that echo the rhythms of Hoi An ancient town. Live performances with đàn tranh and sáo trúc, graceful áo dài presentations, and the quiet joy of a lantern release—each element gently guides guests into a shared cultural space. It is subtle, not staged; intimate, not performative.
A Living Connection Between Hoi An and Saigon
Though Hoi An old town lies far from Saigon, its spirit is gracefully alive at Hội An Sense. Through thoughtfully reimagined cuisine, atmosphere, and ritual, the essence of Hoi An ancient town is translated—not copied—into a modern context. For those who seek depth, story, and sensory richness, this is a place where heritage continues to breathe.
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