Hoi an Ancient Town City Tour – Boat Ride & Lantern Release

Prepare to embark on a captivating journey through Hoi An's ancient charm, where Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cultures intertwine, culminating in the release of vibrant lanterns on the Thu Bon River.

Hoi An’s ancient charm captivates visitors from around the world. This UNESCO-listed town offers a unique cultural experience, blending Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences. Exploring Hoi An’s vibrant market, historic architecture, and scenic river by boat provides an immersive glimpse into the city’s storied past. As day transitions to night, the release of colorful lanterns on the Thu Bon River symbolizes good luck, inviting travelers to uncover the enchantment that lies within.

Good To Know

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  • Explore the UNESCO World Heritage site of Hoi An, including the bustling market, ancient Chinese assembly hall, and a scenic boat ride with a lantern release.
  • Enjoy a 7.5-hour guided tour with a maximum group size of 12 for an intimate experience, with pickup from central Da Nang hotels.
  • Savor a local cuisine dinner and refreshing mineral water as part of the tour package, which starts from $40.26 per person.
  • Take advantage of the flexible booking options, with no upfront payment required and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
  • Enjoy the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Hoi An, from the intricate woodcarvings to the colorful lantern release.
You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

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The Hoi An Ancient Town Tour is a comprehensive 7.5-hour experience that takes visitors on a journey through the historic streets of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

A comprehensive 7.5-hour experience that takes visitors on a journey through the historic streets of Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Priced from $40.26 per person, the tour has a limited group size of 12 participants and features a live English-speaking guide. Pickup is included from hotels in central Da Nang.

Highlights include exploring the vibrant Hoi An Market, visiting ancient houses and Chinese architecture, and enjoying a boat ride with a lantern release.

The tour also includes a local Hoi An cuisine dinner and mineral water.

Booking Information

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Customers can reserve their spot on the Hoi An Ancient Town Tour without any upfront payment, allowing them to book the tour now and pay later.

The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility. Travelers should confirm the starting times before booking to ensure availability.

With a limited group size of 12 participants, visitors can expect an intimate and personalized experience exploring the ancient town.

The tour’s booking process caters to the needs of modern travelers, offering convenience and peace of mind.

Hoi An Market Exploration

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Vibrant sights, sounds, and scents await visitors as they explore the Hoi An Market. This bustling marketplace offers a feast for the senses.

Stalls brim with fresh produce, fragrant spices, and an array of handicrafts. The air is filled with the cacophony of vendors haggling and shoppers bargaining.

Visitors can enjoy the local culture, browsing through the stalls and interacting with the friendly merchants. From vibrant textiles to intricate woodcarvings, the market showcases the region’s rich artisanal traditions.

It’s a captivating experience that provides a glimpse into the daily life of the Hoi An community.

Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall

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Nestled within the charming old town of Hoi An, the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall stands as a testament to the region’s diverse cultural heritage.

This impressive structure, dating back to the 17th century, offers visitors a glimpse into the rich history and traditions of the Chinese merchant community that once thrived in the area.

The assembly hall features:

Intricate wood carvings, ornate architectural details, and shrines dedicated to Chinese deities within the historic Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall.

  1. Intricate wood carvings and ornate architectural details that showcase the skilled craftsmanship of the era.

  2. Shrines and altars dedicated to the Chinese deities, highlighting the importance of ancestor worship and religious beliefs.

  3. Exhibitions and artifacts that provide insights into the daily lives and customs of the Chinese traders who once frequented this vibrant hub.

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Visiting Ancient Houses

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Visitors to the historic Hoi An Ancient Town are enchanted by the opportunity to explore the well-preserved ancient houses that line its charming streets.

They’ll visit Phung Hung and Tan Ky houses, which showcase over 200 years of history. These merchant houses reflect the town’s unique architectural style, blending Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences.

Guests can admire the intricately carved wooden beams, ornate ancestral altars, and elegant courtyards that highlight the region’s rich cultural heritage.

These ancient abodes offer a glimpse into the daily lives of Hoi An’s past inhabitants.

Museum of Folk Culture

One of the highlights of the Hoi An Ancient Town tour is the Museum of Folk Culture. This 150-year-old Chinese merchant house showcases a collection of artifacts that depict the daily life of the local people.

Visitors can expect to see:

  1. Traditional costumes and textiles

  2. Farming tools and household items

  3. Intricate woodcarvings and pottery

The museum provides a glimpse into the cultural heritage of Hoi An, allowing travelers to appreciate the rich history and traditions of this ancient town.

Exploring the Museum of Folk Culture is an enriching experience that complements the other captivating sites on the tour.

Crossing the Japanese Bridge

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The iconic 400-year-old Japanese Bridge is one of the most remarkable sights on the Hoi An Ancient Town tour. Crossing this covered footbridge offers a unique glimpse into the town’s fascinating history and cultural influences. As visitors stroll along the bridge, they admire its ornate roof and intricate tile work, which reflect both Japanese and Vietnamese architectural styles. The bridge’s symbolic importance is further heightened by its role as a connection between the town’s Chinese and Japanese communities. Below is a table highlighting key facts about this iconic landmark:

| Fact | Detail |

| — | — |

| Construction | Built in the early 17th century |

| Purpose | Connect Japanese and Chinese communities |

| Architectural Style | Blend of Japanese and Vietnamese elements |

| Significance | Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site |

Boat Ride and Lantern Release

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After exploring the charming streets and historical sites of Hoi An’s Ancient Town, visitors can enjoy a serene boat ride along the Thu Bon River.

The boat ride offers a unique perspective of the city, allowing guests to:

  1. Admire the picturesque landscape and traditional riverside architecture.

  2. Witness the release of colorful flower lanterns, a symbolic gesture for good luck and prosperity.

  3. Enjoy a complimentary local Hoi An dish and refreshing mineral water, completing the immersive cultural experience.

This tranquil boat tour and lantern release provide a fitting finale to a day spent discovering the rich heritage of Hoi An.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can I Bring My Own Snacks on the Tour?

While participants are generally allowed to bring their own snacks on tours, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand. Some may have restrictions or prefer that travelers enjoy the included dining experience.

Do I Need to Bring a Life Jacket for the Boat Ride?

No, you don’t need to bring a life jacket for the boat ride. The tour operator provides life jackets for all participants as part of the included amenities. Just sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic boat ride.

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?

There are no age restrictions for this tour. Children of all ages are welcome to participate, and the tour provider will ensure their safety during the boat ride portion of the activity.

Can I Customize the Itinerary to Visit Specific Sites?

The tour has a set itinerary, but you can’t customize it to visit specific sites. However, you could discuss your interests with the tour guide to ensure they focus on the aspects most relevant to you during the group tour.

Is There Wi-Fi Available During the Tour?

The tour doesn’t mention providing Wi-Fi access during the excursion. However, the guide can likely provide recommendations on finding public internet access in Hoi An if needed by participants during their free time.

The Sum Up

The Hoi An Ancient Town City Tour offers an immersive cultural experience, allowing visitors to explore the historic market, tour ancient houses, and witness the serene beauty of the Thu Bon River. The highlight is the magical lantern release, symbolizing good luck and reflecting the town’s vibrant heritage. This intimate tour provides a comprehensive introduction to Hoi An’s captivating charm and is a must-do for those seeking to explore the city’s rich cultural tapestry.

You can check availability for your dates here: