Set out on a captivating morning journey through the cultural heart of Vietnam. Discover the ancient Champa temples of the UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary, then learn about the art of traditional rice paper making. With a delectable local lunch and a serene boat ride along the Thu Bon River, this tour promises to immerse you in the rich heritage and natural beauty that define Da Nang and Hoi An. Uncover the allure of this remarkable region as you…

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Key Points

A 5.5-hour tour combining visits to the UNESCO-listed My Son Sanctuary and a rice paper-making activity in Hoi An.
Includes round-trip hotel transportation, entrance fees, English-speaking guide, and a local lunch.
Explore the ancient Hindu tower temples and ruins of the former Champa kingdom capital at My Son.
Participate in a hands-on rice paper-making demonstration, learning the traditional Vietnamese technique.
Conclude the tour with a scenic boat trip on the Thu Bon River, arriving in Hoi An.

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Tour Overview

This 5.5-hour tour offers visitors the opportunity to explore the captivating My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and partake in the traditional Vietnamese activity of rice paper making.

Priced from $42.62 per person, the tour includes round-trip hotel transportation, entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, and a delicious local lunch.

Guests can opt for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance or choose the reserve now, pay later option.

With highlights like Champa performances and a scenic boat trip, this tour provides a well-rounded cultural experience in the Da Nang and Hoi An region.

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Itinerary Schedule

The tour begins with hotel pickup between 7:30-8:00 am.

At 9:30 am, guests arrive at the My Son Sanctuary, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Over the next 2 hours, an English-speaking guide leads them through the ancient Champa ruins, providing insight into the site’s history and culture.

Afterwards, they travel to a local house to try their hand at making traditional Vietnamese rice paper.

At 12:30 pm, they enjoy a lunch of authentic Vietnamese cuisine at the same house.

Following lunch, they take a scenic boat trip along the Thu Bon River, arriving in Hoi An by 1:30 pm.

My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary is a UNESCO World Heritage site that dates back to the 4th century AD.

It’s the former capital and religious center of the Champa kingdom, known for its impressive tower temples.

Visitors can explore the ruins and learn about the site’s history and religious significance.

The tour includes an English-speaking guide who provides insights into the architectural styles and cultural artifacts.

Guests can also witness traditional Champa performances, which offer a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage.

Champa Performances

Champa performances captivate visitors with their vibrant displays of traditional dance and music. Inspired by the ancient Champa Kingdom, these cultural showcases feature ornate costumes, intricate choreography, and the rhythmic sounds of gongs and other indigenous instruments.

Tourists get a glimpse into the region’s rich heritage as performers enact stories of battles, celebrations, and spiritual rituals. The dynamic movements and mesmerizing melodies transport onlookers to a bygone era, providing a memorable cultural experience.

These performances add depth to the visit to My Son Sanctuary, allowing visitors to better appreciate the significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

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Rice Paper Making

After visiting the ancient ruins of My Son Sanctuary, visitors get the chance to participate in a hands-on rice paper making activity.

At a local house, they learn the traditional Vietnamese technique for crafting delicate rice paper. Guests get to grind rice into a fine paste, spread it thinly on a bamboo mat, and then carefully peel off the dried sheets.

This interactive experience allows travelers to gain a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese culinary traditions. The homemade rice paper can then be enjoyed with a delicious local lunch served at the same location.

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Lunch at a Local House

Following the visit to the rice paper making demonstration, travelers are treated to a traditional Vietnamese lunch served at the local house.

The meal features an array of Vietnamese staples, including fragrant jasmine rice, fresh spring rolls, savory chicken, and a variety of colorful vegetables.

Diners have the opportunity to sample classic Vietnamese flavors and gain insights into the country’s culinary traditions.

The intimate setting allows for an authentic cultural experience as travelers dine alongside their local hosts.

This lunch is a highlight of the day’s activities, providing a satisfying conclusion to the morning’s explorations.

Boat Trip on Thu Bon River

The tour continues with a scenic boat trip along the Thu Bon River.

Guests will board a traditional Vietnamese boat and enjoy a leisurely cruise through the picturesque countryside.

Along the way, they’ll take in the lush green landscapes, quaint fishing villages, and calm waters of the river.

The boat trip offers a unique opportunity to experience the tranquil beauty of the region and gain a deeper understanding of the local way of life.

After the boat ride, the tour will conclude with a drop-off at the hotel in Hoi An.

Customer Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the Da Nang/Hoi An: My Son Holyland & Rice Paper Making tour, giving it a stellar 5/5 rating based on a single review.

The tour highlights include:

The engaging and personable guide, Michael, who was described as "funny and friendly"
The fascinating visit to the UNESCO World Heritage site of My Son Sanctuary
The delicious traditional Vietnamese lunch that received positive feedback

With a focus on culture and scenic beauty, this tour offers an enriching experience for travelers seeking to discover the history and traditions of Vietnam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Travel Insurance Included in the Tour Price?

The tour price does not include travel insurance. According to the tour overview, the only inclusions mentioned are transportation, entrance fees, lunch, rice paper making, and an English-speaking guide. Travel insurance is not listed as an included item.

Can I Request a Vegetarian or Special Dietary Meal?

Yes, you can request a vegetarian or special dietary meal. The tour includes a traditional Vietnamese lunch, and the tour operator is happy to accommodate any dietary requirements you may have. Just let them know in advance.

What Is the Cancellation Policy if I Need to Reschedule?

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. If you need to reschedule, you can do so without penalty during this timeframe. There’s also a reserve now and pay later option available.

Can I Take Photos During the Champa Performances?

Yes, you can take photos during the Champa performances. The tour overview states that visitors will "enjoy traditional Champa performances," which implies they’re permitted to capture photos of these cultural displays as part of the experience.

What Should I Bring for the Boat Trip on Thu Bon River?

For the boat trip on the Thu Bon River, it’s recommended to bring a camera to capture the scenic views. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, and bring sun protection like a hat or sunglasses. Bring any snacks or drinks you’d like to enjoy during the trip.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam’s captivating heritage. Visitors can marvel at the ancient Champa temples of My Son Sanctuary, partake in the traditional craft of rice paper making, and savor local cuisine. The scenic boat trip along the Thu Bon River completes the experience, providing a tranquil glimpse of the countryside. This comprehensive morning excursion promises a well-rounded introduction to Vietnam’s rich cultural tapestry.