This time... I had the opportunity to revisit "Hoi An" again. I traveled to the same places, the same atmosphere, but with more time, up to 6 days. Many people might think that this is too long to spend in a small town like this, as you can walk around the old town in just half a day or at most a day. However, due to the situation that required me to stay for 6 days, I was able to explore Hoi An thoroughly at a leisurely pace without rushing. This was another solo trip to Vietnam. What was it like? Let's travel together!

This review is divided into 3 parts:

Part 1: Hoi An… It's a bit yellow!

Link to original article

Episode 2: Fireflies of Hoi An! >> https://th.readme.me/p/9889

Part 3: Hoi An… with a beach!

Link: https://th.readme.me/p/9890

**Hội An** is a small city located in central Vietnam, within the Quảng Nam province, approximately 30 kilometers from Da Nang. Historically, it served as a major port city in Southeast Asia. In 1999, it was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, leading to significant development and preservation efforts in architecture and other areas. Consequently, the city's buildings have been remarkably well-maintained, showcasing unique and distinctive characteristics.

Where have you been traveling?

Hoi An Ancient Town: A World Heritage Site

Hoi An Ancient Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Vietnam.

TICKET : 120,000 VND (approximately 180 THB)

Hoi An: A Charming Town Steeped in History

Hoi An, a quaint town in Vietnam, offers a captivating glimpse into the past. Its well-preserved Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, can be explored on foot, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its unique atmosphere.

The town's charm lies in its vibrant yellow-painted buildings, a testament to its rich history. Wandering through the narrow streets and alleys, one can't help but be captivated by the architectural details and the sense of tranquility that permeates the air.

For those seeking a deeper understanding of Hoi An's heritage, a selection of museums, ancient houses, and temples offer insights into the town's cultural and historical significance. A convenient ticket priced at 120,000 VND (approximately $5 USD) grants access to five of these attractions, allowing visitors to tailor their experience to their interests.

Whether strolling through the picturesque streets, admiring the architectural wonders, or delving into the town's past, Hoi An promises a memorable experience for all who visit.

My Son: The Ancient City of My Son

Bus Day Trip (8:00 AM - 1:00 PM) = $5

**Day Tour (Return by Boat)**: 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM = $8 USD

TICKET : 150,000 VND (approximately 225 THB)

My Son Sanctuary: A Journey Through Ancient Champa

My Son Sanctuary, an ancient complex built in the Champa architectural style, lies approximately 40 kilometers from the historic town of Hoi An. This captivating site offers a glimpse into the rich history of the region and is a must-visit for anyone interested in exploring the past.

Reaching My Son Sanctuary:

The most convenient way to reach the sanctuary is by booking a day tour from tour operators in Hoi An or through your hotel. Two options are available: a round-trip by car (5 USD) or a one-way car trip with a return boat ride (8 USD). If time permits, consider the boat option for a more relaxing and scenic experience.

Entrance Fee:

An entrance fee of 150,000 VND is required, which is not included in the tour price.

Exploring the Sanctuary:

My Son Sanctuary offers a captivating journey through the ancient Champa civilization. The intricate carvings, towering towers, and serene atmosphere transport visitors to a bygone era. Take your time to explore the various temples, each with its unique architectural features and historical significance.

Tips for Visiting:

• Wear comfortable shoes and clothing suitable for walking on uneven terrain.
• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and water, especially during the hot season.
• Consider hiring a local guide to gain deeper insights into the history and significance of the site.
• Be respectful of the cultural and religious significance of the sanctuary.

My Son Sanctuary: A Historical Gem

A visit to My Son Sanctuary is an enriching experience that allows you to delve into the fascinating history of the Champa people. The intricate architecture, serene atmosphere, and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring the Hoi An region.

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An Bang & Cua Dai Beach: Vietnamese Coast

Hoi An is not only known for its ancient town, but also boasts beautiful beaches. Two popular and adjacent beaches, An Bang and Cua Dai, are located approximately 5 kilometers from Hoi An's city center. A popular and economical way to explore these beaches is by renting a bicycle (costing around 1 USD per day), allowing for leisurely rides along the beachfront and stops at points of interest.

**Cham Island: Cham Islands**

Day Trip (8:00 AM - 3:00 PM) = 20 USD

Homestay 2 Days 1 Night = 440,000 VND/person (approximately 21 USD)

Homestay for 3 days and 2 nights = 880,000 VND per person (approximately 42 USD).

Escape to Cham Island, a historical gem located 15 kilometers off the coast of Hoi An. This island boasts pristine beaches and a glimpse into the local fishing community's way of life. While independent travel is possible with a single daily ferry, the most convenient option is a day tour, offering roundtrip transportation and comprehensive coverage for 20 USD. For an immersive experience, consider a homestay package at Bai Huong fishing village, including accommodation, meals, and excursions for 21 USD. However, independent travel to the village requires a ferry ride from the mainland.

Free Bike Tour: Cycling Around Hoi An

FREE Bike Tour to Kim Bong Village (Tue, Sat, Sun) = No cost involved.

Hoi An Free Bike Tour: Exploring the Old Town and Cam Kim Island

Hoi An offers a unique FREE Bike Tour that takes you through the charming Old Town and across to Cam Kim Island, where you can experience the authentic life of local fishermen in Kim Bong Village. This tour operates only on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, and is led by student guides who are eager to practice their English and share their knowledge of the area.

The tour covers various points of interest, including:

• Old Town: Explore the historic streets and admire the traditional architecture.
• Cam Kim Island: Discover the island's serene landscapes and witness the daily life of the fishing community.
• Kim Bong Village: Learn about the traditional crafts of mat weaving, boat building, and wood carving.

Additional Costs:

• Bike Rental: 1 USD (bring your own bike if available)
• Local Ferry: 20,000 VND (approximately 30 Baht)
• Local Support: 30,000 VND (approximately 45 Baht)

This FREE Bike Tour provides an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture, support the community, and enjoy a scenic cycling adventure.

Hoi An Full Moon Lantern Festival: A Celebration of Light and Tradition

A Captivating Evening in Hoi An: The Full Moon Lantern Festival

The highlight of any visit to Hoi An is undoubtedly the enchanting Full Moon Lantern Festival, held every month on the night of the full moon (15th day of the lunar month). During this magical evening, the entire town plunges into darkness, illuminated solely by the soft glow of countless colorful lanterns. Along the Thu Bon River, paper lanterns gently drift downstream, creating a breathtaking spectacle of floating lights. The atmosphere is undeniably romantic, further enhanced by captivating performances scattered throughout the ancient town. The vibrant energy of the festival transforms Hoi An into a bustling hub of cultural celebration.

Street Food: Culinary Delights by the Roadside

Vietnamese cuisine is renowned for its exceptional flavors, rivaling the best in the world. Street food stalls are ubiquitous, offering a glimpse into local culinary traditions. These small establishments, with their low tables and chairs, provide an intimate dining experience. Engaging with the vendors, even with limited communication, adds to the enjoyment. The diverse menu boasts delicious dishes at affordable prices, making it an ideal choice for budget-conscious travelers. Throughout my six-day stay, Vietnamese cuisine served as a reliable and satisfying source of sustenance.

Journey to Hoi An

There are three ways to travel to Hoi An.

1. Road

This method of travel is quite time-consuming, but it is also economical and allows for a full immersion in the atmosphere of the surroundings. As it takes a full day to travel, using this method for both the outward and return journeys requires a two-day travel time allocation. On my first visit to Hoi An, I used this method. Although the journey was somewhat lengthy, it was a memorable experience and a cherished memory.

To travel by this method, start from Bangkok to Mukdahan. Depart from Bangkok in the early evening and take a bus to Mukdahan. Then, take an international bus from Mukdahan to Savannakhet (Laos). It is recommended to go on the first trip because you need to catch the bus from Savannakhet (Laos) to Hue (Vietnam) which leaves at 9:00 AM.

After a 6-7 hour journey, you will reach Hue, where you can explore the city before continuing south to Da Nang and Hoi An, which are not far apart. If you have enough time and prefer a leisurely pace, this travel method is an attractive option.

2. By plane (connecting in Ho Chi Minh City)

This method seems to be the most popular, as it allows for fast travel and eliminates the need for long bus rides. Additionally, there are occasional promotions on flights within Thailand and Vietnam. If you can find cheap tickets, it can save you even more money. The journey starts with a flight from Bangkok to Ho Chi Minh City Airport, followed by a connecting flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Da Nang Airport (Hoi An does not have an airport). From Da Nang, it's a half-hour drive to Hoi An.

However, a common issue encountered is the unexpected flight delays by Vietnamese airlines, which can lead to significant delays in connecting flights.

3. By airplane (direct flight)

This is the most convenient way to travel, as there are direct flights from Bangkok to Da Nang with airlines such as Bangkok Airways and Vietnam Airlines.

Bangkok Airways Flight 947

Bangkok (BKK) to Da Nang (DAD), departing at 11:00 am and arriving at 12:35 pm.

Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat

Vietnam Airlines Flight 620

1:50 AM - 3:25 AM (Bangkok to Da Nang)

- M T – T F -

During this trip, I had the opportunity to fly with Vietnam Airlines, which was offering a promotion for direct flights to Da Nang at an affordable price (around 2,300 baht one way). This was considered a very good deal for a direct flight. However, due to the limited number of flights and the fact that they did not operate every day, it felt like winning the lottery... because the return flight I had booked was canceled due to weather conditions. The airline offered two options: connect through Ho Chi Minh City on the way back to Thailand or postpone the return flight to the next available flight, which was two days later! After considering the options, I realized that connecting through Ho Chi Minh City would waste almost a whole day of sightseeing, so I decided to extend my stay instead. Originally, I had planned to relax in Hoi An for four days, but with the extra two days, I ended up spending six days there, making the most of my time in Hoi An!

(In June 2017, AirAsia will launch direct flights from Don Mueang to Da Nang, making travel more convenient and affordable. This will be another option for traveling to central Vietnam.)

Traveling Between Da Nang and Hoi An

The distance between Da Nang and Hoi An is approximately 30 kilometers. However, there are shuttle services available at key locations, such as Da Nang Airport - Hoi An - Giao Dai Beach, which can pick you up and drop you off at your hotel. This is a convenient and economical option. (Da Nang Airport - Hoi An 110,000 VND = 165 THB)

Travel Preparation

Money: Money is the most important thing. Normally, traveling to Vietnam does not require a lot of money. You can exchange USD and bring it with you according to your budget. Then, you can exchange it to VND at the airport in Vietnam. You don't need to exchange a lot of VND. Just exchange enough to spend at street food stalls. You can pay for accommodation and tours in USD.

Accommodation in Hoi An

Hoi An offers a wide range of affordable accommodation options, particularly around the Old Town. Most guesthouses allow walk-in inquiries and negotiation on prices. Despite being budget-friendly, these accommodations typically provide all necessary amenities.

For this trip, I booked my accommodation in advance. Knowing the layout of the town and wanting to stay in the same area as my previous visit, I chose the Lucky House Hotel. This hotel offered a comfortable stay with all amenities included for five nights at a cost of 8 USD per night.

After booking a five-night stay at Lucky House in Hoi An, I wanted to explore more of the area. I found a homestay in the fishing village of Bai Huong on Cham Island, which is run entirely by the local community. Communication was limited to email through Vanessa, and I booked a package that included one night's accommodation, meals, and a tour of the island for 21 USD. This was an incredibly affordable and appealing option.

However, Vanessa's email response stated, "The booking is now complete. You can pay when you arrive. However, the weather is currently experiencing monsoons, and the conditions are unpredictable. You may be stranded on the island and have to return the next day, which is also uncertain." Despite this, I was still eager to experience the homestay and observe the Vietnamese fishing community's way of life. So, I replied, "I confirm that I will go," hoping that the waves or monsoons would have subsided by the time of my trip.

SIM Card: SIM cards are readily available at the airport for around 6 USD. They offer decent speeds and are suitable for basic tasks like using LINE, Facebook, uploading photos and videos, and staying connected with family. For short stays, these cards provide good value and eliminate the need for top-ups. They last for 6 days, offering peace of mind and convenience.

Advance Tour Booking:

While tours at various attractions are typically available on-site, I came across a unique free bicycle tour in Hoi An. This tour, offered only on Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, sparked my interest due to its limited availability. To avoid disappointment, I decided to book in advance. After sending an email with my details, I received a confirmation with further information.

When is the best time to visit Hoi An?

Hoi An is a great place to visit all year round. The weather is hot during the summer months, and humid and wet during the rainy season, but each season offers a unique experience. However, if you want to experience Hoi An at its best, you should plan your trip to coincide with the Full Moon Lantern Festival. This festival is held every month on the night of the full moon (the 15th day of the lunar month). During the festival, the entire city is lit up with colorful lanterns, and there are a variety of cultural performances and activities to enjoy. If you can't make it to Hoi An during the festival, don't worry! The lanterns are lit up every night, but the atmosphere is much more lively during the festival. You can find a schedule of the festival dates here: [link to festival schedule].

DAY #1 BANGKOK - DA NANG

Embark on a new journey!

This time, I'm going solo…

The night before my departure, I barely slept, engrossed in travel information and feeling a tinge of excitement about the journey ahead. I'll be living outside my home country for several days, with my destination being Hoi An. Many people questioned my choice before I left, asking why I would spend so much time in just one place. My response was a simple, "I like it… 55+.." followed by the explanation that I had already visited nearby cities like Hue and Da Nang, but I enjoyed Hoi An the most. Having the opportunity to return, I simply wanted to spend an extended period there.

I arrived at Suvarnabhumi Airport early in the evening to catch my Vietnam Airlines flight VN620 at 1:50 AM. This was significantly earlier than necessary, but I wanted to save money by taking the Airport Rail Link before it stopped running at midnight.

It seems like I'll be up all night again. I'm trying to find a quiet corner at the airport to take a nap. I'm really tired, but I can't seem to fall asleep. I'm afraid if I do, I'll oversleep and miss my flight. Then I'll just have to go home and sleep for a long time. Haha.

The check-in and baggage drop-off counters opened shortly after, and since I was already in the vicinity, I was one of the first to check in. This trip was for several days, and my luggage was heavy, so I checked it in without any hassle. Now I could walk freely and head to the gate to find a place to rest.

After passing through immigration, proceed to Gate E6. The airport is currently experiencing low passenger volume.

This is the first time I have traveled with Vietnam Airlines.

When checking in, I requested a window seat so that I could lean my head against it and get some sleep. Before departure, the flight attendants distributed blankets, making it even easier to settle in for a nap.

Next, it was time for food distribution. However, at this point, I wasn't hungry and would have preferred to sleep. The food came in a box containing a sandwich and some snacks, along with a variety of beverages that could be requested based on individual preferences.

The distance from Don Mueang to Da Nang is not very far.

The plane touched down at Da Nang International Airport at 3:30 AM, right on schedule. Gazing out the window, the world outside appeared eerily quiet. However, what caused more concern were the raindrops clinging to the glass, seemingly increasing in number by the minute.

After the plane came to a complete stop, I sat on board for a while, feeling slightly disoriented. There was no rush, as I knew I would have to wait until daybreak anyway. Eventually, I disembarked as one of the last passengers, greeted by a Vietnamese air hostess – the first Vietnamese person I had encountered on this trip.

Traveling from Da Nang to Hoi An

The most common mode of transportation from Da Nang to Hoi An is the local bus, also known as the "Yellow Bus" among tourists. The fare is only 20,000 VND (approximately $1 USD). The buses are typically yellow in color and offer a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two cities.

Traveling from the airport to the bus stop can be a bit challenging, as it requires finding a way to reach the bus stop located about a kilometer away. The most economical option is to take a motorbike taxi from the airport to the bus stop, which costs around 1 USD. Alternatively, if you have time and are not in a hurry, you can walk through the city to reach the bus stop.

From the map

The black line represents the bus route from Da Nang to Hoi An.

The orange line is the walking route from Da Nang Airport to the bus stop.

The Green Line: Connecting Da Nang Train Station to the Bus Stop (For those arriving by train and heading to Hoi An)

After walking a considerable distance through the city, I asked locals for directions to a bus stop. Finally, I found one with several bus routes, including the one I needed: Route 1 DANANG – HOI AN. All the buses were yellow, so it was important to double-check the route to avoid ending up in the wrong city.

During this time, I stood waiting for a car. Seeing the cars passing by, it seemed quite chaotic, with all sorts of vehicles, including cars, motorcycles, bicycles, carts, and trailers, sharing the road in a truly cooperative manner. It might seem chaotic, and one might think that there would be some minor collisions, but there were none. Their driving skills are truly professional.

This bus stop is located near the beginning of the route, so there are still few passengers. The bus departs from Da Nang Bus Station and passes by the stop where I boarded, which is not far away. However, boarding here is closer to the airport. After boarding the bus, the conductor came to collect the fare. I paid 20,000 VND, which is equivalent to 30 baht. It's quite affordable.

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The vibrant colors of the bus seats caught my eye, exuding a playful and cheerful vibe. Within five minutes of my journey, as we were about to cross the bridge, the rain poured down once again. This time, it seemed to be a heavy downpour, significantly reducing visibility. However, it also brought a refreshing coolness to the air. I lowered the bus window to let in the fresh rain, leaving a small gap for ventilation. The cool breeze felt delightful.

**
**

10.00 a.m. Hello.. "Hoi An" Where should we sleep?

After walking approximately 800 meters, I arrived at my destination. I specifically chose to stay in this area because of its affordability, proximity to restaurants and tour agencies, and easy walking distance to the old town. The accommodation offered comprehensive services, including booking day trips to various locations. The staff was incredibly attentive, constantly checking in on me. During my five-night stay, I interacted with all the staff members, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. They were always willing to help with any questions or concerns I had. Next to the accommodation was a convenience store selling drinks and beers, where I often bought refreshments and sat in front of the hotel to watch the passing traffic during my free time or while waiting to head out.

Let's go upstairs and check out the room. The atmosphere in the accommodation is even better than I expected.

Is there anything else I can help you with?

The bedroom where I will be staying for the entire 5 days is clean and inviting. The sight of the bed makes me want to sleep.

The room is fully equipped with amenities, including air conditioning, TV, refrigerator, and Wi-Fi. The room is very good value for money.

The bathroom allows you to adjust the water temperature while showering. Soap and shampoo are provided, as is a toothbrush and toothpaste set, similar to most hotels in Vietnam.

Feeling sticky and sluggish from yesterday's journey, I decided to take a refreshing shower. As I finished, I peeked out the window to find rain falling once again. It seemed like it would be an on-and-off drizzle throughout the day. With nothing to do in this weather, I opted to turn on the air conditioning and take a nap. A little rest would do me good.

**2:00 PM. Explore the city of Hoi An.**

Waking up in the afternoon, I saw that the rain had stopped outside, so it was time to go out for a walk. Before leaving, I sent an email to Vanessa at the homestay on Cham Island to let her know that I had arrived in Hoi An. I was hoping that I might be able to travel to the homestay on Cham Island, but the weather was still overcast and could rain at any time.

From your accommodation, walk right along Hai Ba Trung Street to reach the Old Quarter. The distance is approximately 750 meters and takes about 10 minutes. (The light brown zone indicates the Old Quarter.)

Adjacent to the accommodation, there is also a tour shop operated by Shin Café. This is convenient for those who wish to purchase tours or book bus tickets to various destinations.

A walk towards the old town will take you past a pond filled with water spinach.

The emergence of classic and charming colonial-style yellow buildings signals our arrival in the historic district. While time constraints and inclement weather prevent a comprehensive exploration today, we embark on a brief atmospheric reconnaissance, starting with the iconic "Japanese Bridge."

Adjacent to the Japanese Bridge, there is a restaurant and beverage shop. Personally, I like this shop very much because I can sit and sip my drink while enjoying the atmosphere of the Japanese Bridge up close. Returning to Hoi An this time, I didn't think this shop would still be there...

The food menu offers two options: Chicken Fried Rice (45 Baht) and Noodle Soup (37 Baht). Beverages include hot tea, soft drinks, beer, and other common drinks. Relax and enjoy your meal with a refreshing drink.

Order a can of Saigon Beer... and ask for an extra glass of ice (normally they don't drink beer with ice, but... we're Thai style, we can't live without ice 55+)

Is there anything else I can help you with?

Sipping a beer by the river, enjoying the atmosphere of the Japanese Bridge. This is the place to be, especially in the late afternoon and early evening when tourists flock to the area to take photos.

Stroll through the old town and soak in the atmosphere, observing the daily life of the locals.

The Thu Bon River, a vital waterway that traverses the city of Hoi An, has served as a transportation route and a source of sustenance for the local population for centuries.

Street food is ubiquitous in the city of Hoi An, found on nearly every corner.

Soon, the rain started to fall again. I thought I would find something to eat on the side of the road for a bit.

The old town is now awash with the colors of raincoats and umbrellas held by tourists to shield themselves from the rain.

That's all for today, really, because the rain keeps stopping and starting. I'm worried that if I get caught in the rain for too long, I'll get sick. So I've only explored the old town area this much. I'll wake up early tomorrow and make the most of the whole day!

Street Food: Savor the Delights of the Roadside!

Today, it seems like I haven't eaten anything substantial yet... Apart from the beer I had at the Japanese Bridge while walking back to my accommodation on Hai Ba Trang Street, I also came across a street stall that I hadn't noticed on my way there. I guess it must have been set up in the late afternoon.

The Alluring Aroma of Grilled Delicacy

The tantalizing aroma of grilled meat and billowing smoke instantly piqued our curiosity, beckoning us to indulge in a culinary adventure. The succulent pork, marinated in a symphony of spices and grilled to smoky perfection, was a true testament to the art of barbecue. Accompanied by soft, pliable flatbreads, a vibrant dipping sauce, and an assortment of fresh vegetables, this dish promised an explosion of flavors and textures.

The vendor enthusiastically encouraged me to try their product, so I decided to give it a shot. Each skewer was priced at 10,000 VND, which is equivalent to 15 Thai baht. I opted for a modest sampling of three skewers.

The dish is served as a set with rice paper, fresh vegetables, and dipping sauce. The friendly server, concerned that I might not know how to eat it, took the initiative to wrap it for me without asking. In the blink of an eye, she had finished wrapping it. I had planned to take a picture before eating, but I missed the opportunity.

Ready to eat, the appearance will look like this. It looks delicious too.

While I was eating, the vendor chatted me up, which was quite enjoyable. She asked, "Where are you from?" I replied, "Thailand." The vendor responded, "Aroy, aroy!" Ah, I realized she was saying "delicious" in Thai! (This restaurant is delicious, by the way. I highly recommend it. In the evenings, it gets so crowded that there's no place to sit.)

Before eating, dip it in the sauce first. The taste is delicious. I ate 3 skewers, just the right amount of fullness!

Returning to the accommodation, we waited for the rain to stop once more before rushing down to eat at the restaurant we had our eye on. From the traces and the condition, it was possible to infer that a large number of people must have eaten there recently. And indeed, a steady stream of people were coming and going to eat.

Indulge in a "slat," a Vietnamese salad featuring a medley of vegetables and shredded pork, sprinkled with peanuts. This dish is priced at 20,000 VND, equivalent to 30 Thai baht.

To enhance the flavor, add a dash of sauce and chili peppers for a spicy kick.

Observing my neighbor enjoying their meal with a flatbread, I couldn't resist trying it myself. I requested an additional flatbread and was pleasantly surprised by the satisfying crunch and harmonious combination of flavors. It proved to be a delightful late-night snack!

Day 2: Exploring the Ancient Town of Hoi An

8:00 AM. Hoi An… on a day with clear skies!

Last night, I sent another email to Vanessa to cancel my homestay reservation on Cham Island. I was unsure about the weather and had already decided not to stay on the island. However, this morning, the sun was shining brightly into my bedroom. I peeked out the window and saw that the weather was beautiful. I quickly took a shower and headed out to explore the Old Quarter. Today's plan is to spend the whole day wandering around the Old Quarter!

Admission to the Old Town is free, but entrance fees apply to visit historical houses and museums. Purchasing a ticket is highly recommended to learn about Hoi An's rich history. Tickets can be purchased at various designated points around the Old Town, where staff will assist with ticket sales and provide information.

The entrance ticket costs 120,000 VND or 180 baht and grants access to all five attractions. Upon entering each attraction, the right portion of the ticket will be torn off by staff. The ticket is valid for multiple days, allowing visitors to complete their exploration over several visits if they do not wish to see all five attractions in one day.

Upon purchasing a ticket, visitors receive a map highlighting approximately 20 significant locations, including historical houses, museums, and temples. However, only five of these sites can be visited. Seeking guidance, I requested the staff's recommendations for must-see attractions. They suggested five locations: numbers 101, 80, 46, 14, and 176 (map image: from the Internet).

1. Old House No. 101

The first stop on the tour is Old House No. 101. Before entering, visitors must present their tickets to be torn by the staff. This wooden house is a historical relic of the Tan Ky family, passed down for over five generations. The interior remains well-preserved, showcasing a classic style. The rooms are meticulously arranged, creating a harmonious atmosphere.

This house is particularly popular with tourists, so there is a constant stream of visitors coming to see the interior.

Antique household items are meticulously preserved and displayed for viewing.

The house is surrounded by various points of interest that can be explored on foot. Upon entering the house, one is greeted by a pleasantly cool atmosphere.

This style of Chinese house often features a central courtyard with a water well.

Translation:

The house, situated near the Toubon River, frequently experiences flooding. Historical records indicate varying flood levels throughout the years, with watermarks on the house walls serving as a testament to past events. Notably, the 2009 flood reached an extreme level, submerging the house up to the roofline.

The back of the house serves as a souvenir shop for those who are interested.

Translation:

The rear of the house opens directly onto the Toobon River, making it susceptible to frequent flooding.

(Next door at number 101 is Reaching Out Art & Craft, a demonstration shop for Vietnamese handicrafts made by artisans with physical disabilities. It is an interesting shop, but unfortunately, photography is not allowed inside. Oh, and by the way, entry to this shop is free.)

2. Museum of Trading Ceramics No. 80: This museum, housed in a converted old wooden house, showcases a collection of ancient ceramics, including cups, bowls, and other artifacts. These relics offer a glimpse into Hoi An's rich history, its past trading routes, and diverse cultural influences.

The excavation unearthed fragments of ceramic tools and utensils, which are now on display.