Ancient House of Tan Ky, Hoi An

Historic Building in Hoi An

Ancient House of Tan Ky
Ancient House of Tan Ky
©

The Tan Ky Ancient House, constructed in 1741, is one of the top attractions in Hoi An for travellers hoping to experience a perfectly preserved merchant residence from the town's golden trading era. Home to seven generations of the Le family, the house benefited from its prime location between Nguyen Thai Hoc Street and Bach Dang Street along the Hoai River. This strategic position allowed Mr. Le Tan Ky of the second generation to prosper in agricultural trade, making the house one of the must-see places in Hoi An for visitors interested in its commercial past. Its deep cultural significance also makes it a great place to visit on a walking tour of Hoi An.

Despite numerous floods over the centuries-including the devastating 1964 flood that rose to the first floor-the Tan Ky Ancient House has remained structurally sound. Flood markers inside the souvenir area silently recount its resilience. Recognised in 1985 as a “Cultural Work” by the Ministry of Culture and Information, it became the first ancient house in Hoi An to receive such a distinction.

History and Significance of Tan Ky Ancient House

The Tan Ky Ancient House reflects the prosperity and cross-cultural connections central to Hoi An's history as an international port. Built in the mid-18th century, it served both as a family home and a bustling trading base that facilitated commercial exchanges with Japanese, Chinese, and Western merchants.

The house is named after Mr. Le Tan Ky, a second-generation family member who used the property as a trading hub for agricultural goods. Over seven generations, the family preserved the home and its cultural heritage, even as floods and time threatened its structure. Its recognition as an official cultural site in 1985 underscores the home's importance in documenting the architectural and commercial history of Hoi An.

Today, the house remains a beautifully preserved example of traditional merchant life, offering visitors a window into the town’s vibrant trading past.

Things to See and Do in Tan Ky Ancient House

The architecture of the Tan Ky Ancient House is an exquisite blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. This harmony is visible in symbolic elements such as the two overlapping columns representing the connection between heaven and humanity, and the five vertical columns symbolising the five natural elements.

Like many traditional Hoi An homes, the house features tubular architecture without windows, relying instead on a central atrium to bring in natural light and airflow. Materials used in construction include regional wood, Thanh Hoa stones, and Bat Trang tiles, each chosen for durability and climate regulation.

The absence of nails in its construction highlights the craftsmanship of artisans from the renowned Kim Bong carpentry village. Their intricate carvings, philosophical motifs, and careful joinery make exploring the home one of the top sights in Hoi An for architecture and heritage lovers.

Visitors can also see the family’s collection of antiques, flood markers, and preserved furniture, all of which add personality and historical depth to the site.

How to Get to Tan Ky Ancient House

Most visitors arrive in Hoi An through Da Nang International Airport, located about 45 minutes away and offering many domestic and international flights. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hoi An on Booking.com.

For travellers arriving by train, Da Nang Railway Station is the closest major hub, with trains connecting from cities across Vietnam. Continuing to Hoi An is easy via taxi, shuttle, or bus. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.

Tan Ky Ancient House sits in the very centre of the Ancient Town and is easily accessible on foot or by bicycle. Travellers arriving by car must use designated parking areas outside the pedestrian-only zone before entering.

Practical Tips on Visiting Tan Ky Ancient House

  • Suggested tips: Visit early to enjoy the space before crowds arrive, especially during high season.
  • Best time to visit: Mornings and late afternoons for pleasant temperatures and softer lighting.
  • Price: Hoi An Old Town Ticket Required (120,000 VND)
  • Opening Hours: Typically 8:00–17:00
  • How long to spend: Around 20 to 30 minutes is enough to explore each room and learn its history.
  • Accessibility: Some raised thresholds and narrow spaces may be challenging for those with mobility needs.
  • Facilities: Basic facilities nearby in the Ancient Town; the house itself has limited space.
  • Photography tip: Use the atrium’s natural light to capture the wooden interiors at their best.
  • Guided tours: Many walking tours include this house as a central stop due to its historical importance.
  • Nearby food options: Nguyen Thai Hoc Street and its surroundings offer numerous cafés and Vietnamese eateries.

Where to Stay close to Tan Ky Ancient House

Staying within the Ancient Town makes it easy to visit Tan Ky Ancient House and nearby landmarks. Recommended options include Vinh Hung Heritage Hotel, offering a traditional atmosphere close by. For boutique comfort, Allegro Hoi An is an excellent choice. Another appealing option is Hoian Central Hotel, conveniently located for exploring the heritage area.

Is Tan Ky Ancient House Worth Visiting?

Yes, Tan Ky Ancient House is absolutely worth visiting. Its rich history, cross-cultural architectural motifs, and remarkable preservation make it one of the most impressive heritage homes in Hoi An. The craftsmanship, atmospheric interiors, and stories from seven generations of residents offer a rare and intimate look at the town's merchant-era life.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.2 (1,282)

Old House of Tan Ky, at 101 Nguyễn Thái Học in Hoi An, is a preserved 18th-century merchant's wooden house beside the Thu Bon River that offers guided tours through rooms filled with antiques and a gift shop; visitors note a free English guide can clarify the architecture and show flood water levels, but the house is small, often crowded, and requires a ticket or donation to enter.

Rachitha Kote
3 months ago
"Requires ticket to enter. We didn’t have any so donated some money at the entrance. This house is one of the oldest near the river and stood strongduring many floods and the family still lives on upper floor and they only come here at 7pm. The place closes at 5pm anyway. The whole house is made of wood and there are many “mother of pearl” furnitures which are absolutely stu ing! Must visit place if you are curious...."
Do Cuong
4 months ago
"If you're in Hoi An, you have to check out the Tan Ky House! It’s right on the Thu Bon River and is an awesome example of a classic Hoi An merchant'shome. Even though it's been around for a while, the house still has this really unique vibe and some super cool stories. You'll get to see how the old merchants did business on the river, check out their unique pulley system, and just admire all the cool architecture. It’s a perfect place to really feel the history and see the true beauty of Hoi An...."
Sai Vinesh
6 months ago
"Old House of Tan Ky in Hoi An was very crowded like the rest of the town. There was nothing much to see inside. If you have extra time, then you canvisit. It’s a small traditional house, but not a must-visit...."

FAQs for Visiting Tan Ky Ancient House

It was constructed in 1741 during the height of Hoi An’s trading prosperity.
Yes, descendants of the Le family continue to maintain the home.
Yes, photography is allowed throughout most areas of the house.
It is renowned for its blend of architectural influences, nail-free construction, and historical significance.

Nearby Attractions to Tan Ky Ancient House

The Ancient House of Tan Ky appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hoi An!

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Moira & Andy

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Planning Your Visit

Hours:

Typically 8:00-17:00

Price:

Hoi An Old Town Ticket Required (120,000 VND)

Address: Old House of Tan Ky, Nguyễn Thái Học, Old Town, Minh An, Hội An, Quảng Nam, Vietnam
Hoi An: 1 km

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