From the 16th to 18th centuries, Hoi An was
a thriving international commercial port for
Chinese, Dutch, French, Japanese, Portuguese
and Arab merchants. These people came
primarily to trade in the high grade silk,
which is still produced in the area, as well
as ceramics. Today, Hoi An is a quaint
riverside town, popular with tourists for
its eclectic architecture, tailors shops,
and numerous cafes. Some of the buildings in
the narrow streets have remained unchanged
for more than a century
We enjoy a half-day walking tour through the
narrow winding streets of the Ancient
Quarter visiting Chua Ong Pagoda, Chinese
Assembly Halls, the 200- year old Tam Ky
ancestral house and the Japanese Bridge.
After lunch we take a short boat ride to a
nearby island to visit a handicraft village
specializing in ceramics and also the boat
building yards. Hoi An is now one of four
World Heritage listed sites in Vietnam.