Hoi An : My Son Sanctuary & Thanh Ha Pottery by Motorbike

Discovering Central Vietnam: My Son Sanctuary & Thanh Ha Pottery by Motorbike

If you’re after a day full of culture, scenic views, and a dash of adventure, this motorbike tour from Hoi An hits the spot. Imagine weaving through lush rice paddies, stopping at authentic villages, and finally stepping into the mysterious ruins of My Son — all on the back of a motorbike. It’s a real taste of Vietnam’s countryside and ancient history, wrapped into one memorable day.

What really makes this experience stand out are three things we love: the thrill of riding through the countryside, the opportunity to see traditional pottery-making firsthand, and the chance to explore UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary with fewer crowds. That said, keep in mind that this is a full-day adventure and can be quite physically involved with a fair amount of walking and riding. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy active, culturally immersive experiences and are comfortable on a motorbike.

If you’re seeking a well-rounded, authentic day trip that combines scenic beauty, local insights, and history, this tour offers excellent value at $76. Perfect for those who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots while experiencing Vietnam’s rural charm firsthand.

Key Points

• Authentic transportation: Ride on a motorbike through Vietnam’s countryside, not just in a van.
• Cultural insights: Visit Thanh Ha Pottery Village to see artisans at work.
• Historical wonder: Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of My Son Sanctuary.
• Scenic stops: Enjoy breathtaking views from Le Pass and Tien Waterfall.
• Food & refreshment: Tasting local foods along the journey.
• Flexible and private: Tailored to small groups, with hotel pickup and drop-off included.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Motorbike Tour Experience

Starting the Day: From Hotel to the Countryside

Your day begins around 8 a.m., with a hotel pickup arranged by your English-speaking driver. As you settle onto the back of your motorbike, the adventure kicks off with a gentle ride through the bustling streets of Hoi An, quickly giving way to tranquil rice fields and lush greenery. This initial stretch offers an excellent opportunity to appreciate Vietnam’s rural landscape and get a sense of local life.

The motorbike ride is not only practical but also exhilarating — feeling the wind and the hum of the bike under you adds a layer of authenticity you won’t get in a car. This mode of transport makes it easier to access small roads and villages that larger tours might miss, offering a more intimate experience.

Thanh Ha Pottery Village: A Hands-On Cultural Stop

The first official stop is Thanh Ha Pottery Village, a highlight for many travelers. Here, you can see artisans crafting traditional sculptures and vessels by hand from clay. The hosts are often happy to explain their techniques, and some reviews mention that visitors get the chance to try shaping clay themselves — a fun, tactile way to connect with local craftsmanship.

This stop typically lasts around 1.5 hours, giving enough time to wander, take photos, and chat with artisans. It’s a refreshingly authentic glimpse into daily village life, far from touristy souvenirs. Reviewers appreciate the chance to see and learn about an age-old craft that remains vital to the local economy.

Scenic Ride to My Son Sanctuary

From Thanh Ha, the journey continues along winding roads leading into the countryside, where you’ll notice the landscape shifting to rolling hills and lush greenery. The highlight here is the trip up the Le Pass to admire views of the valley and Tien Waterfall. This spot offers a peaceful respite and perfect photo opportunities.

Reaching My Son Sanctuary, you’ll be transported back in time. This site, developed between the 4th and 13th centuries by the Champa civilization, is known for its intricate temple towers and ancient architecture. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999, it remains a captivating reminder of Vietnam’s diverse cultural tapestry.

Most visitors spend around two hours exploring the ruins, walking among the crumbling structures and imagining what life was like during the Champa era. The site is sprawling, so comfortable footwear and patience are advised. The overall experience is enhanced by the less crowded atmosphere, compared to larger tour groups, making it feel more intimate.

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Tien Waterfall and Relaxation

After soaking up ancient history, the tour takes you to Sui Tien, a serene spot beside the Holyland. Here, travelers can relax and refresh by swimming in the cool waters of the waterfall. Many reviews highlight this as a peaceful moment, perfect for recharging after a morning of sightseeing.

Being able to dip into natural water and enjoy the calming surroundings adds a delightful touch to the day. The setting is scenic, with lush foliage and the gentle roar of water providing a soothing soundtrack.

Return Journey and Sunset

The final stretch involves crossing the river back toward Hoi An, where you might catch a stunning sunset. This peaceful end to the tour offers perfect photo ops and a chance to reflect on the day’s highlights. The motorbike ride back is smooth, with plenty of opportunities to chat with fellow travelers or just enjoy the scenery.

Practical Details and What to Expect

Transport & Comfort: The entire trip is conducted on a motorbike, with a driver who is typically an experienced rider. You’ll sit behind and be taken care of, but keep in mind that you’ll need to be comfortable with the idea of a day spent on a motorbike.

Duration & Timing: The tour lasts about 8 hours, but specific start times depend on availability. It’s a full-day commitment but offers enough flexibility for a relaxed pace.

Cost & Value: At $76 per person, this tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation, and fuel. Entrance fees and guides at the sites are not included, so you’ll want to budget for those separately. Considering the personalized experience and diverse stops, it offers good value, especially for those craving an authentic connection to local culture.

Group Size & Flexibility: This is a private tour, which means it’s tailored to your group. Smaller groups allow for flexibility and personalized attention, often resulting in a more relaxed experience.

What’s Not Included

• Lunch, so you might want to bring snacks or plan for a meal on your own.
• Entrance fees at My Son or other sites.
• Guide inside the tourist destinations — a self-guided exploration, guided tours can be arranged separately if desired.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

Travelers who enjoy active, outdoor adventures will find this tour rewarding. It’s perfect for those wanting a personal, hands-on experience of Vietnamese countryside, history, and craft. The motorbike aspect adds fun but requires a willingness to sit behind an experienced rider for much of the day.

Those interested in cultural sights like My Son, combined with scenic stops and local village visits, will appreciate how this tour blends history, nature, and authentic Vietnamese life. It’s especially suitable for travelers with a sense of adventure and a desire to see Vietnam beyond the tourist hotspots.

Final Thoughts

This motorbike tour from Hoi An offers a well-balanced mix of history, scenery, and culture, all wrapped in an authentic Vietnamese transportation experience. You’ll love the stunning views from Le Pass, the chance to see artisans at work in Thanh Ha, and the extraordinary ruins at My Son — all without feeling rushed.

The personalized nature of a private tour ensures a relaxed pace and the ability to tailor the day to your interests. While it’s a full day, the variety of stops keeps it engaging, and the inclusion of natural and cultural highlights makes it a great value for curious travelers.

For those who want to explore Vietnam’s countryside with a local touch, this tour delivers genuine moments, photogenic vistas, and a sense of adventure that stays with you long after the day ends.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
It’s ideal for travelers comfortable on a motorbike and able to handle a full day of sightseeing and walking. Kids or those uncomfortable on bikes might want to consider other options.

What is included in the price?
The tour covers hotel pickup and drop-off, transportation by motorbike, and fuel. Entrance fees and guides at the sites are not included.

How long is the motorbike ride?
The ride covers several hours, including stops, with the entire day lasting around 8 hours.

Can I join if I don’t know how to ride?
Yes, you are a passenger on the motorbike, with an experienced driver at the wheel.

Are meals included?
No, lunch is not included, so plan to bring snacks or eat during free time.

Is it a private or group tour?
This is a private tour, allowing for a more personalized experience.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for riding, plus sunscreen and a hat for sunny days.

Will I need to walk a lot?
Yes, at each site, expect some walking to explore the ruins and villages properly.

How do I pay?
You reserve now and pay later — full payment is due at the time of booking, with flexible cancellation options up to 24 hours before.

What makes this tour special?
It’s the combination of scenic motorbike rides, cultural visits to Thanh Ha Pottery Village, and the awe-inspiring My Son Sanctuary, all in a private, flexible setting.

In summary, this tour is a fantastic way to see the heart of Vietnam’s countryside, history, and craftsmanship — all on a motorbike adventure that’s as fun as it is enriching. It’s best suited for curious travelers looking for an authentic, active day out in Central Vietnam.

You can check availability for your dates here: