Hoi An, The Ancient Town
Country Fact: Central Vietnam

Hoi An is an ancient town, located 30 kilometers south of Danang city and lying on the bank of Thu Bon River. It used to be one of the most important trading ports of Southeast Asian in the 16th century, known among the western traders as "Faifo". Hoi An ancient town is very charming with the distinct Chinese and Japanese atmosphere as well as its traditional houses lining the narrow streets. Most of buildings are still in their original form, including ancient private houses, family chapels, community halls, communal houses, temples, pagodas, bridges, wells and tombs.

The oldest quarter of the town is situated the south, next to Thu Bon River where the town's first street was constructed by the Japanese. Hence, the construction of residence, temples, and community halls among others emerged, providing the Japanese character to the old quarter. The most outstanding Japanese architecture is the Japanese Bridge, built in the 17th century. In the middle of the bridge stands a square-shaped pagoda built in Japanese style.

Ancient buildings along the street are also noticeable for its characteristic architecture. Houses are made of rare wood, decorated with lacquered boards and panels engraved with Chinese characters. The best example of Hoi An architecture is houses along Nguyen Thai Hoc street.

Hoi An today still keeps its fascinating atmosphere from the past by an attempt to reserve its architecture, luring then a great number of visitors to appreciate its ancient beauty.

Central Vietnam: Hue | Danang | Hoi An | Nha Trang | Phan Thiet | Da Lat | Buon Me Thuot | Kontum | Pleiku

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