ANCIENT CITY
Wish you were here
A journey back in time
Sandip Hor is impressed with the timeless offerings at Hội An in Vietnam
The ancient township of Hội An, which sits on the banks of Thu Bồn River, is a jewel of an attraction in central Vietnam. It gained prominence as a port for selling and buying spices, silks and ceramics between the 16th and 19th centuries.
Many of the buildings from that period are still well-preserved, and reflect the architectural prowess of the early trading settlers from China, Japan, India and Europe. In 1999, UNESCO listed Hội An as a World Heritage Site.
Hội An is often referred to as the ‘Lantern City’ because the entire urban landscape is decorated with colourful lanterns, which create a spectacular ambience when lit in the evenings.
WHERE TO STAY A highlight of the Hội An experience is to stay at the Anantara Hoi An Resort, which is the epitome of luxury. Boasting an enviable setting in a lush garden that fronts the Thu Bồn River, this 92 room sanctuary is quite close to the historic Old Town.
All accommodation options feature classic decor, soft sunlight and a natural indoor-outdoor flow, enabling guests to laze in the living area or out on a balcony daybed, and choose either garden or river views.
WHAT TO EAT Hội An is known for its local delicacies and the most famous is cao lầu. It’s made with pork, local vegetables, rich bone broth and chewy noodles that are soaked in a wood-ash solution mixed with water from a well.
Other local items include bánh bao (steamed dumplings filled with pork and mushrooms), bánh xoài (mango cake) and xi ma (a unique black sesame pudding). The waterfront Bach Dang is home to many traditional eating houses that serve these items.
Anantara Hoi An Resort offers many classy dining options and Hoi An Riverside Resort & Spa creates authentic Vietnamese flavours while Art Space caters to international taste buds.
WHERE TO SHOP Hội An is often touted as the mecca of tailoring.
The stitching trade began in the 16th century and today, there is at least one tailor in every block who can stitch a made-to-measure suit in less than 24 hours using quality fabric.
Phuong Nam Design and Lana Tailor provide reliable services.
WHERE TO GO Though there are many newer additions to the landscape, visitors mostly stay inside the Old Town to cherish its laid-back beauty, particularly along the riverfront stretch, which is lined with centuries old buildings – many of them are now home to restaurants, cafes and shops.
Some of the old buildings are open to the public for people to appreciate their architectural diversity. Tan Ky Old House is one such building. Built nearly two centuries ago, its roof is tiled while the ceiling is made of wood to keep the inside cool in summer and warm in winter. The house design reflects Japanese, Chinese and European touches.
The former assembly hall of the Chinese community is now a temple dedicated to Thien Hau, a deity who protects seafarers. The murals on the walls are simply beautiful.
Most emblematic is the Japanese bridge on the river. It was constructed in the 16th century by the Japanese community to connect with the Chinese quarters on the other side. The entrances to the solidly built bridge are guarded by weathered statues of a pair of monkeys on one side and a brace of dogs on the other.
Hội An was once the political hub of the mighty Kingdom of Champa. Traders from India inspired many to convert to Hinduism, and this led to the royals building several Hindu temples – some of which still exist and can be seen at nearby Mỹ Sợn – between the 7th and 13th centuries.
