Hoi An, Self Guided Walking Tour (Maps)

The Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic landmark from the 16th century, serves as a crucial link between the Japanese and Chinese quarters of Hoi An. This bridge, now a symbol of the town and a central feature of the Ancient Town area, showcases a unique blend of Japanese and Vietnamese architectural styles. Its most striking feature is the sheltered passageway that arches over a small waterway, connecting two parts of the town.

Notably, at each end of the bridge stand sculptures of a monkey and a dog, which commemorate the years construction began and ended, 1593 and 1595, respectively. Within the bridge is a quaint temple dedicated to Taoist gods, frequented by both locals and visitors who come to seek blessings for fortune and well-being.

Phung Hung Ancient House stands as a well-preserved traditional Vietnamese merchant’s house, encapsulating the architectural and cultural heritage of the region. This house exemplifies a 19th-century Hoi An merchant’s residence, illustrating a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural influences.

During a visit, guests have the opportunity to wander through the different rooms of the house, discovering insights into the everyday life and operations of the merchant families who resided there. Presently, the house also functions as a hub for cultural events and activities, continuing its legacy as a vital cultural landmark.

Cam Pho Temple honors Thien Hau, the sea goddess who safeguards sailors and fishermen. Known as Mazu in Chinese traditions, she is deeply respected across many East Asian coastal communities. For generations, Hoi An has been a hub for fishermen and maritime traders. Today, individuals continue to converge at Cam Pho Temple to venerate Thien Hau, praying for her protection on their journeys, as well as for prosperity and good luck.

The Confucius Temple, also known locally as Miếu Thờ Khổng Tử, sits on the fringe of Hoi An Ancient Town. Although it is less frequented by visitors, it stands as one of the most remarkable attractions in Hoi An. If you find the main gate closed, a smaller, alternative gate is usually accessible nearby. A charming bridge over a moat leads to a spirit wall, guarded by a mythical creature, marking the entrance to the temple. Throughout the temple, numerous sculptures adorned with colorful ceramic tiles can be found, making it a captivating place to explore.

Directly across from the Confucius Temple is the Quang Nam Memorial, characterized by a striking tall pink column situated beside a pond brimming with lotus flowers.

Pháp Bảo Temple, also referred to as Phac Hat Pagoda, is a Buddhist temple renowned for its enchanting gardens that are frequently adorned with blooming flowers. Known as the ‘Treasure of the Law Temple’, Phap Bao Pagoda features a vibrant facade decorated with ceramics and murals, and an intricate roof crowned with serpentine dragons. The temple is centered around a vast courtyard, which is home to hundreds of potted plants and bonsai trees, creating a peaceful and verdant environment.

Ba Mu Temple, was originally constructed in the 17th century, the temple has undergone various transformations, retaining only a fraction of its initial structure, most notably the intricately decorated gate that welcomes visitors. Named after the legendary goddess of the sea, Thien Hau, to whom it was once dedicated, Ba Mu Temple serves as a serene sanctuary for both locals and tourists. The temple complex, with its richly adorned gate and remnants of traditional Vietnamese architecture, provides a peaceful retreat amidst the bustling ancient town. It continues to be a focal point for spiritual practices and a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the tranquil atmosphere and explore the historical depth of Hoi An.

The Tran Family Chapel is a historical and architectural gem that embodies over two centuries of cultural heritage. Constructed in the early 19th century by Tran Tu Nhac, a cultural mandarin under Emperor Gia Long, the chapel was designed to serve as a communal space for descendants to honor their ancestors. This serene sanctuary, nestled in the bustling environment of Hoi An’s old town, covers 1,500 square meters and is distinguished by its fusion of traditional Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural elements. The chapel not only serves as a place of worship but also houses a family museum and displays a collection of antiquities, making it a profound testament to the Tran family’s enduring legacy and a focal point for understanding regional cultural history.

The Japanese Covered Bridge, an iconic landmark from the 16th century, serves as a crucial link between the Japanese and Chinese quarters of Hoi An. This bridge, now a symbol of the town and a central feature of the Ancient Town area, showcases a unique blend of Japanese and Vietnamese architectural styles. Its most striking feature is the sheltered passageway that arches over a small waterway, connecting two parts of the town.

Notably, at each end of the bridge stand sculptures of a monkey and a dog, which commemorate the years construction began and ended, 1593 and 1595, respectively. Within the bridge is a quaint temple dedicated to Taoist gods, frequented by both locals and visitors who come to seek blessings for fortune and well-being.

The Museum of Sa Huỳnh Culture, established in 1994, is a significant cultural institution dedicated to preserving and showcasing the artifacts of the prehistoric Sa Huỳnh culture, the earliest known settlers of Hoi An. The museum’s collection, the largest of its kind in Vietnam, includes terracotta works and other artifacts that provide deep insights into the burial customs, beliefs, and daily life of the Sa Huỳnh people. These early inhabitants were known for their extensive trade networks with Southeast Asia, South India, and China. Of particular importance is the collection from Bai Ong on Cham Island, which traces the Sa Huỳnh culture back 3,000 years, offering a rare glimpse into the rich and complex history of this ancient civilization.

Phung Hung Ancient House stands as a well-preserved traditional Vietnamese merchant’s house, encapsulating the architectural and cultural heritage of the region. This house exemplifies a 19th-century Hoi An merchant’s residence, illustrating a fusion of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural influences.

During a visit, guests have the opportunity to wander through the different rooms of the house, discovering insights into the everyday life and operations of the merchant families who resided there. Presently, the house also functions as a hub for cultural events and activities, continuing its legacy as a vital cultural landmark.

Cam Pho Temple honors Thien Hau, the sea goddess who safeguards sailors and fishermen. Known as Mazu in Chinese traditions, she is deeply respected across many East Asian coastal communities. For generations, Hoi An has been a hub for fishermen and maritime traders. Today, individuals continue to converge at Cam Pho Temple to venerate Thien Hau, praying for her protection on their journeys, as well as for prosperity and good luck.

The Confucius Temple, also known locally as Miếu Thờ Khổng Tử, sits on the fringe of Hoi An Ancient Town. Although it is less frequented by visitors, it stands as one of the most remarkable attractions in Hoi An. If you find the main gate closed, a smaller, alternative gate is usually accessible nearby. A charming bridge over a moat leads to a spirit wall, guarded by a mythical creature, marking the entrance to the temple. Throughout the temple, numerous sculptures adorned with colorful ceramic tiles can be found, making it a captivating place to explore.

Directly across from the Confucius Temple is the Quang Nam Memorial, characterized by a striking tall pink column situated beside a pond brimming with lotus flowers.

The Ancient House of Tan Ky, dating back to 1741, is a historic merchant’s home adorned with antiques and centered around a charming courtyard. Designed to endure the frequent floods of its era, the house has markers indicating the heights of past floods, some of which were quite significant. Inside, visitors have the opportunity to purchase some of the unique antiques and souvenirs that are on display.

The Old House of Duc An is a historic gem in Hoi An, Vietnam, celebrated for its exquisite architecture and rich cultural significance. Built in the late 19th century, this well-preserved house offers a glimpse into the prosperous past of Hoi An as a bustling trading port. The house features a harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles, with its wooden beams, intricately carved details, and antique furnishings reflecting the craftsmanship of the era. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the Old House of Duc An holds historical importance as a place where intellectuals and revolutionaries once gathered, making it a site of both cultural and historical interest. Today, it stands as a testament to Hoi An’s rich heritage, inviting visitors to step back in time and experience the timeless beauty and historical depth of this remarkable residence.