Morning: Experience fishing life of the locals
The rivers and waterways around Hoi An were not only instrumental during its history as a famed port city, they are also vital to the villagers who depend on fishing for their livelihood. Depart for a local fishing village and spend some time learning about the fishermen’s simple yet rewarding way of life in the area. Board a local river boat and start cruising down the Cua Dai River with a stop along the shore and try your hand at casting the Vietnamese fishing nets, an age-old technique still used today. The fluid motion looks easier than it is, but the friendly fishermen will offer you their guidance based on years of experience. Learn the art of paddling the unique Vietnamese round basket boats and travel through the tranquil coconut-palm flanked waterways while hearing about how the area was a hot bed of activity during the American War. Return to the river boat and enjoy a refreshing drink as you head back up river.
NOTES
Availability: Morning, Afternoon
Suggested departure time: 08:00, 13:00
Tour duration: 4 hours
This trip is not recommended from October - January due to weather conditions.
Afternoon: Discover Hoian Ancient City
Between the 15th and 19th centuries, Hoi An known then as ‘Faifo’, was a prosperous trading port, attracting Chinese, Japanese, Dutch, Portuguese and Spanish ships amongst others. Today, this World Heritage ancient town is recognized for its well-preserved architecture, pedestrian-only streets and distinctive local cuisine, allowing visitors a glimpse of its illustrious past. Hoi An’s narrow lanes are ideal for a guided walking tour of its many atmospheric sights including old merchant houses with influences from Chinese, Japanese and Vietnamese architecture; the 400-year-old Japanese Covered Bridge, first built in the 1590s by the Japanese community to link them with the Chinese quarters across the stream; the Assembly Hall of the Chaozhou Chinese Congregation with its intricate woodcarvings; and the colorful market with stalls brimming with local specialties including silk, which can be turned into fashionable garments within a day or two. Enjoy an hour-long boat trip on the Thu Bon River for up-close views of fishing boats and country villages before returning to your hotel.
NOTES
Suggested departure time: 14:00
Tour duration: 3.5 hours