Vietnam’s culinary heritage comes alive in Hoi An’s vibrant market and cooking class experience. Visitors can enjoy the local flavors, selecting fresh ingredients and mastering traditional techniques to craft authentic Vietnamese dishes. But the adventure doesn’t end there – a serene bamboo boat ride through the Cam Thanh Coconut Village promises an unforgettable glimpse into the region’s natural beauty. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious explorer, this experience offers a delectable introduction to Hoi An’s rich cultural tapestry.

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Good To Know

A 5.5-hour culinary experience in Hoi An, Vietnam, that includes a visit to a local market, a hands-on cooking class, and a bamboo basket boat ride.
Opportunity to select fresh ingredients, learn about herbs and spices, and prepare four authentic Vietnamese dishes under the guidance of a local chef.
Engagement with traditional Vietnamese cooking tools and techniques, such as pounding rice, separating grains, and grinding spices using a stone grinder.
Accommodation for dietary restrictions, including vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options, with the final meal enjoyed in the serene setting of Cam Thanh Coconut village.
Suitable for most participants, with the exception of those with mobility impairments or those over 95 years of age, and restrictions on large bags, luggage, alcohol, or drugs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Overview of the Tour

The Hoi An: Market Tour & Cooking Class is a 5.5-hour experience that allows visitors to enjoy the rich culinary traditions of Vietnam.

Enjoy Vietnam’s rich culinary traditions with this 5.5-hour market tour and cooking class.

Priced from $32.88 per person, this tour includes hotel pickup and round-trip transportation.

Guests will visit a local market to select fresh ingredients, learn about Vietnamese herbs and spices, and experience traditional cooking tools.

Under the guidance of a local chef, they’ll prepare four Vietnamese dishes before enjoying the meal.

The tour also features a unique bamboo basket boat ride and engagement in local activities.

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Highlights of the Market Visit

As guests arrive at the local market, they have the opportunity to enjoy the vibrant sights, sounds, and aromas that define Vietnamese cuisine. Under the guidance of their local chef, they’ll explore the market, selecting fresh ingredients for their upcoming cooking class. The chef will explain the unique properties and uses of various herbs, spices, and produce, providing valuable insights into traditional Vietnamese flavors.

| Ingredient | Properties | Uses |

| — | — | — |

| Lemongrass | Citrusy, floral aroma | Marinades, soups, curries |

| Galangal | Earthy, ginger-like flavor | Curries, stir-fries, teas |

| Betel leaves | Slightly peppery, aromatic | Wraps, salads, sauces |

This hands-on experience allows participants to engage with the local culture and gain a deeper understanding of the integral role that fresh, high-quality ingredients play in Vietnamese cuisine.

Unique Cooking Experience

After the vibrant market visit, participants are eager to begin their unique cooking experience.

Under the guidance of a local chef, they’ll learn to use traditional Vietnamese cooking tools, such as pounding and separating rice, and grinding spices.

Guided by a local chef, participants learn to use traditional Vietnamese tools like pounding rice and grinding spices.

The class covers the preparation of four authentic Vietnamese dishes. Participants will engage hands-on, crafting each meal from scratch using the fresh ingredients selected at the market.

This interactive culinary journey culminates in enjoying the delicious homemade lunch or dinner, complemented by the serene setting of the Cam Thanh Coconut village.

Traditional Cooking Tools and Techniques

During the cooking class, participants have the opportunity to engage with traditional Vietnamese cooking tools and techniques.

These include:

Pounding rice into a smooth, sticky consistency using a large wooden pestle and mortar.
Separating rice grains using a winnowing basket, which is a flat woven tray that allows the chaff to be blown away by the wind.
Grinding spices and herbs using a traditional stone grinder, creating fragrant and flavorful pastes.
Utilizing handcrafted bamboo and ceramic utensils for stirring, scooping, and presenting the dishes.

These time-honored methods not only produce authentic flavors but also immerse participants in the rich culinary heritage of Vietnam.

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Preparing the Delectable Vietnamese Dishes

Participants dive into the hands-on culinary adventure, expertly guided by the local chef. They learn to pound, separate, and grind rice using traditional tools, unlocking the essence of Vietnamese cuisine.

Under the chef’s tutelage, they skillfully prepare four authentic Vietnamese dishes, from vibrant stir-fries to tantalizing spring rolls. The aroma of sizzling garlic and fresh herbs fills the air as they masterfully blend the flavors.

With each step, participants gain a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of Vietnamese cooking. The culmination of their efforts is a delectable meal, savored amidst the tranquil setting of the Cam Thanh Coconut village.

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Enjoying the Meal

With the cooking complete, participants eagerly gather around the table to savor the fruits of their labor. The aromas of the freshly prepared Vietnamese dishes waft through the air, tantalizing the senses.

Participants dive in, delighting in the complex flavors and textures of the meal they’ve created. The experience is made all the more enjoyable by:

Sharing the meal together, exchanging stories, and bonding over the shared experience.
Savoring each bite, appreciating the nuances of the herbs, spices, and cooking techniques.
Reflecting on the market visit and the insights gained about Vietnamese cuisine.
Feeling a sense of accomplishment for having prepared an authentic Vietnamese feast.

Exploring the Coconut Forest by Basket Boat

After savoring the delicious Vietnamese dishes, participants head out to explore the tranquil Bay Mau coconut forest by traditional basket boat. These unique, woven vessels provide a serene and authentic experience as they glide through the lush landscape. Participants can engage in local activities, such as fishing for crabs or watching a basket boat performance. The peaceful surroundings and gentle paddling offer a chance to take in the natural beauty of the region.

| Activity | Description |

| — | — |

| Basket Boat Ride | Unique, woven vessels provide a serene and authentic experience as they glide through the lush landscape. |

| Fishing Crabs | Participants can engage in traditional local activities. |

| Basket Boat Performance | Visitors can watch a demonstration of this traditional mode of transportation. |

Important Details and Considerations

Although the start time may vary due to weather conditions, the tour provides a convenient hotel pickup within the Hoi An old town center.

Participants should wear comfortable shoes and clothes, as they’ll be engaging in various activities. Plus, guests aren’t allowed to bring large bags or luggage, alcohol, or drugs.

Dietary restrictions, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergies, can be accommodated with the provided ingredients. The tour isn’t suitable for individuals with mobility impairments, wheelchair users, or those over 95 years of age.

Complimentary hotel pickup within Hoi An old town center
Comfortable attire and shoes recommended
No large bags, luggage, alcohol, or drugs allowed
Dietary restrictions can be accommodated

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Children Under 5 to Participate in the Cooking?

Children under 5 cannot participate in the cooking class, but they can attend for free. The tour allows a maximum of 1 child per 2 adults.

Is the Tour Suitable for People With Mobility Issues or Wheelchair Users?

The tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. It involves walking at the market and participating in activities that may be challenging for those with restricted mobility.

Can I Bring Alcohol or Drugs on the Tour?

The tour does not allow participants to bring alcohol or drugs. According to the important notes, these items are not allowed on the activity.

Can the Food Be Adapted for Dietary Restrictions Like Veganism or Allergies?

The tour can accommodate dietary restrictions like veganism, vegetarianism, and food allergies. Participants should notify the tour operator in advance, and the food ingredients can be adapted to meet their needs.

What Is the Earliest or Latest Possible Start Time for the Tour?

The start time for the tour may vary due to weather conditions, but it’s typically scheduled as early as possible to avoid the heat of the day. The exact start time can’t be guaranteed and may change.

The Sum Up

This immersive culinary experience in Hoi An lets you explore the vibrant local market, learn authentic cooking techniques, and savor your homemade Vietnamese dishes in the serene Cam Thanh Coconut village. The basket boat ride through the tranquil mangrove forest caps off an unforgettable day, providing a well-rounded glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.