1. Location & opening hours of Hoi An’s walking street
Hoi An’s walking street is the general name for a series of pedestrian-only streets in Hoi An Ancient Town, Quang Nam Province. It includes an old area and a new area.
The old area consists of:
- The entire Tran Phu Street
- Nguyen Hue Street, from the intersection with Tran Phu Street to the intersection with Phan Chau Trinh Street
- The entire Cong Nu Ngoc Hoa Street
- The street in front of the square – along the Hoai River
This area becomes pedestrian-only during 7 am – 11 am and 3 pm – 9 pm daily in winter, which extends to 9:30 pm in summer. It is expected to be adjusted to 9 am – 9:30 pm in summer and 9 am to 9 pm in winter, without the break from 11 am to 3 pm.
Meanwhile, the new area consists of Phan Chau Trinh Street, from the intersection with Hoang Dieu Street to the intersection with Cao Hong Lanh Street. It becomes pedestrian-only during 3 pm – 9 pm daily in winter, which also extends to 9:30 pm in summer.
2. Best things to do in Hoi An’s walking street
2.1. Stroll along Tran Phu Street
Tran Phu Street, about 1 kilometer long, runs through the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town. It is a top spot for seeing the monthly lantern festival and exploring historical sites, including:
- Japanese Bridge (at the start of Tran Phu Street) is a historical site that blends Vietnamese and Japanese architecture. It has become a symbol of tourism in Hoi An, regarded as a manifestation of the ancient town’s soul.
- Cantonese Assembly Hall (176 Tran Phu Street) is another significant historical site of Hoi An’s walking street. Although cultural activities are no longer held here, many valuable documents and artifacts are still preserved.
- Fujian Assembly Hall (46 Tran Phu Street) draws visitors with its impressive architecture and sacred atmosphere. Here, you can participate in worship ceremonies and pray for your family’s good fortune.
- Hainan Assembly Hall (10 Tran Phu Street) is a symbol of unity among the Chinese people in Hoi An, combining cultural significance with architectural grandeur. It served both as a place of worship and a venue for various cultural activities.
- Quan Cong Temple (24 Tran Phu Street) is an exemplary historical site in Hoi An. It was a key religious center in Quang Nam in the past and a popular spot for merchants to pray for prosperity.
- The Museum of Sa Huynh Culture (149 Tran Phu Street) is a captivating treasure trove of artifacts that date back over 2,000 years. It offers a glimpse into an ancient Vietnamese civilization, providing visitors with intriguing insights.
2.2. Enjoy stunning views from a cafe
Cafes in Hoi An are famous for their breathtaking settings and spectacular views. Visiting any of these cafes to savor delicious beverages and snap some great photos promises to be a delightful experience for every traveler.
- Mot (150 Tran Phu Street): Most visitors come to Mot to savor the refreshing Mot tea, which is known for its sweet flavor and lingering aroma.
- Faifo Cafe (130 Tran Phu Street): Faifo Cafe provides guests with a perfect setting to enjoy their coffee while taking in the scenery. Every corner here is a picturesque spot ideal for photography.
- 92 Station (92 Tran Phu Street): This favorite rooftop cafe in Hoi An is celebrated for its spectacular views. With an impressive panorama, it also offers an inviting atmosphere.
- Reaching Out Teahouse (131 Tran Phu Street): This cafe radiates a timeless charm with its airy ambiance. Guests can relax indoors or enjoy the serene outdoor garden here.
2.3. Take a boat ride along the Hoai River
Taking a boat ride on the Hoai River is a must if you are visiting Hoi An’s walking street. This boat tour allows you to fully immerse yourself in the ancient town’s tranquil atmosphere. As you drift along the river, you can relax amidst the gentle sound of paddles slicing through the water, which enhances the peaceful setting and leaves you with a sense of calm. For a truly magical experience, consider a nighttime boat ride, especially during the Hoi An Lantern Festival (on the 14th day of each lunar month). During the festival, the river seems to light up with glowing lanterns illuminating the water.
2.4. Visit Hoai River Square
Hoai River Square, located at 01 Cao Hong Lanh Street, is renowned for its stunning beauty and peaceful ambiance amidst the urban hustle. It serves as a key venue for the Lantern Festival and many folk art performances. With its unique architecture and decorative artworks, the square is not just a tourist attraction but also a symbol of Hoi An’s cultural heritage. For the most enchanting experience, you should make your visit in the evening, when soft lights illuminate the buildings and create a picturesque atmosphere surrounding the square.
2.5. Experience the bustling atmosphere of traditional markets
Hoi An Market, located at 19 Tran Phu Street, has long been a key trading hub in Hoi An. Its vibrant atmosphere stands in stark contrast to the serene ambiance of the ancient town. Here, you can immerse yourself in a lively trading environment and enjoy a satisfying shopping experience. The market is also a culinary haven where visitors can savor a variety of delicious street foods, including cao lau, mi Quang, banh beo, and banh trang cuon thit heo.
Its charming architecture, with moss-covered tiled roofs and weathered yellow walls, has won over tourists’ hearts. Each corner provides a picturesque backdrop for photos, so make sure to bring your camera along.
3. How to explore the walking street in Hoi An?
True to its name, Hoi An’s walking street is best explored on foot. Besides strolling through the charming alleys, visitors can also cycle around or leisurely take a cyclo ride to experience the slow-paced lifestyle of the locals.
4. What to eat near Hoi An’s walking street?
Hoi An delights visitors with its enticing cuisine. You can visit roadside eateries or Hoi An Market to savor specialties such as mi Quang, banh xeo, cao lau, banh beo, banh mi, etc.
Here are some recommended eateries in Hoi An:
- Banh Xeo Quan Gieng Ba Le: 45/51 Tran Hung Dao Street
- Banh Uot Cuon Thit Nuong: The food court by the Hoai River
- Thit Xien Nuong Cong Vien Kazik: 138 Tran Phu Street
- Hoanh Thanh Van Loc: 27 Tran Phu Street
- Banh Bao Banh Vac Bong Hong Trang: 533 Hai Ba Trung Street
- Cao Lau Thanh: 26 Thai Phien Street
- Com Ga Ba Buoi: 22 Phan Chu Trinh Street
Hoi An’s walking street offers a delightful mix of breathtaking sights and delicious dishes that captivate visitors from all around the world. This serene area is perfect for those seeking relaxation and a touch of traditional elegance.
After exploring Hoi An, take your time to venture to the nearby VinWonders Nam Hoi An. This top-rated amusement park offers an exhilarating array of experiences, from thrilling games and vibrant parades to captivating shows and immersive activities, promising endless fun for all ages.
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