Brief Information about Hoi An, a World Heritage Site in Vietnam
Location: Hoi An is an old town down the Thu Bon River, on the coastal
plain of Quang Nam Province, about 30 km south of Da Nang City.
Characteristics: The architectural significance of Hoi An has been
recognized by UNESCO, during the 23rd Congress which took place in
Marrakech (Morocco) from the 29th of November to the 4th of December,
since the town was officially listed as a World Heritage Site.
After a long period of absence from the tourist map, this lovely town
started to draw the attention of visitors and researchers at the
beginning of the 1980’s. What is so special about Hoi An is that this
little port town is in an incredible state of preservation. It offers
some of the most densely concentrated sights in Vietnam with its old
streets bordered with ancient houses and assembly halls, its pagodas,
temples, ancient wells and tombs. In total, more than a thousand
places of interest.
The
architecture of Hoi An is characterized by a harmonious blend of
Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese influences. After many centuries,
Hoi An is still respectful of its traditions, folk festivals, beliefs
and of its sophisticated culinary art.
Set in a quiet environment, Hoi An is surrounded by peaceful villages,
a beautiful river, the sea and sunny beaches. Offshore, Cu Lao Cham
Islands are very famous for sheltering their prized birds’ nests.
