Quang Nam visitors’ guide

HOI AN - MY SON - CHAM ISLAND

First edition Hoi An Tourism Information Office: Address: 45 Le Loi street, Tel: +84 5103 910919 Hoi An Tourist Guide Office: Address: 05 Hoang Dieu Street, Tel: +84 5103 861159

Ha Noi Office My Son Management Board: Office of the Representative to the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam Address: Duy Phu commune, Tel: +84 5103 731757 United Nations Văn phòng Hà Nội Educational, Scientific and Văn phòng Đại diện tại nước Cultural Organization Cộng hòa Xã hội Chủ nghĩa Việt Nam Tổ chức Giáo dục, Khoa học và Văn hóa của Liên Hợp Quốc www.quangnamtourism.com.vn A SPECIAL THANKS TABLE OF CONTENTS Page

This guide is based on the input Introduction 2 of local people from Hoi An, My Hoi An Ancient Town 4 Son and Cham Island including Nearby Hoi An 10 local communities, site manage- My Son Sanctuary 14 ment boards and local authorities Cham Island 18 as part of the UNESCO Public Broader region (Western Quang Nam, Danang, Hue) 22 Use Planning approach. We Local food & restaurants 25 hope that the guide provides you Events & festivals 27 with a deeper insight into the Hoi Handicrafts & shopping 29 An region and a memorable Visitor information 31 holiday and makes a contribution Maps of Hoi An region and Quang Nam province 36 to the preservation of the areas cultural heritage and ultimately benefits the people who call this Credits: Editorial: region home. Quang Nam Department of Culture, Sports & Tourism, SNV, UNESCO Ha Noi Cartography:

Ha Noi Office Brad Tyberg Office of the Representative to the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam United Nations Văn phòng Hà Nội Educational, Scientific and Photography: Văn phòng Đại diện tại nước Cultural Organization Cộng hòa Xã hội Chủ nghĩa Việt Nam Tổ chức Giáo dục, Mai Thành Chương, Nguyễn Quốc Quân, Đặng Khánh Ngọc Khoa học và Văn hóa của Liên Hợp Quốc Design, printing: Thong Nhat Printing Jsc. Publishing license No: 141-2011/CXB/32/02-01/VHTT

Cover photo by Mai Thanh Chuong

1 INTRODUCTION

Welcome to Hoi An heritage region! Home to the World Heritage (WH) World Cultural Heritage sites in 1999 which when visiting religious and historic sites; sites of Hoi An Ancient Town and My Son Sanctuary and Cham Island has helped to ensure these important sites • reduce water and energy consumption World Biosphere Reserve (BR). All inextricably linked through the shared are protected. wherever possible and taking waste with you history of the Cham and the Kinh people. World Biosphere Reserves and disposing appropriately; Biosphere reserves are sites established by This` Visitor Guide is designed to help you make the • ask permission before taking pictures of countries and recognized under UNESCO's most of your holiday by highlighting the important people or religious sites; Man and the Biosphere Programme to cultural and heritage values of this region. From the • respect historical sites by not touching promote sustainable development based on WH sites, to the surrounding artisan towns, the buildings and artifacts unnecessarily and local community efforts and sound science. emerald green rice fields, the sweeping sandy white follow all local laws. beaches to the pristine Cham Island that has long World Biosphere Reserves are places that Your holiday here helps to generate been a fortress to protect Cua Dai beach and Hoi seek to reconcile conservation of biological increased income and additional employment An from both man and nature, making a valuable and cultural diversity and economic and for local people. Eating in local restaurants contribution to the preservation of the cultural social development through partnerships and shopping in craft villages surrounding Hoi heritage and benefiting the people who call this between people and nature. Cham Island An adds an extra special dimension to your region home. You are sure to receive a warm was designated a World Biosphere Reserve holiday and is a great way to directly benefit welcome from the local people and take away in 2009 as a site of excellence where new those who are in more need. and optimal practices to manage nature and memories that will last a life time. A great way to contribute to the preservation human activities are tested and demon- World Cultural Heritage of the special culture of Hoi An is to buy your strated. Heritage is our legacy from the past, what we live Hoi An Entrance Ticket that provides access with today, and what we pass on to future genera- Travel Responsibly to five of the 18 ticketed sites in town. This tions. The United Nations Educational, Scientific Please remember to travel responsibly when small contribution helps fund a broad range of and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) seeks to visiting the Hoi An heritage region. You will heritage conservation measures and guides encourage the identification, protection and preser- have a more positive holiday when you: you to some of the most important and vation of cultural and natural heritage around the • respect local customs by dressing and interesting sites in Hoi An. world considered to be of outstanding value to behaving appropriately: avoid wearing humanity. Both Hoi An and My Son were listed as singlets/sleeveless blouses and short skirts 2 3 Hoi An ancient town on the Hoai Riverside HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN

Hoi An, with its 80,000 inhabitants, is a thriving living museum that in Hoi An, the Japanese, Chinese and Vietnamese. reflects the different cultures that have come to the bustling trading The bridge is made of wood with a yin-yang pan tile port over the centuries. Major cultural influences have been the roof and is erected on stone foundations. The bridge Champa (2nd to 15th century), the Dai Viet from the 15th century as well is connected with a small pagoda that faces the river and can be entered from the middle of the bridge. On as the Japanese, Chinese and European traders. the main door of the pagoda is a horizontal wooden The town maintains a complex of architectural panel with three embossed Chinese characters “Lai

structures in excellent condition with the streets Vien Kieu”, a “bridge of friends from faraway countries”. Japanese bridge laid out in a chessboard pattern, a popular model There are seven compartments on either side of the of oriental mercantile cities in medieval times. A bridge which served as a corridor to display goods The Japanese in Hoi An total of 1,360 culturally significant building and for sale. At each end of the bridge is a pair of statues, Japanese settled in Hoi An in relics have been identified in Hoi An, including one is dog and the other monkey. Decorative large numbers following a treaty houses, assembly halls, temples, pagodas, patterns and designs demonstrate a combination of with local Nguyen lords signed in wells, a bridge, family chapels, wharfs and Vietnamese, Sino, Japanese and even Western the early 1600s. The Japanese markets. architecture. were allowed to construct Hoi An is perhaps at its most captivating at night In addition to the practical purpose of enabling Hoi streets, pagodas, and other when only bicycles and other traditional vehicles An residents to cross the canal, the Japanese bridge infrastructure, along with hous- can enter the town. Visitors can stroll along the had another important role. According to an ancient ing for merchants. The bridge is streets and alleys, be tempted by the tasty local legend, a dragon whose head was in India, tail in one of a handful of architectural food and easily imagine themselves living in Japan and body in caused terrible disasters treasures still existing from that another time. whenever it moved. The Bridge was also designed period. The Japanese returned to pin down the dragon and keep the town safe. Friends across the water home following a 1637 Japa- The Japanese Bridge is one of the most famous nese Government edict forbid- landmarks in Vietnam and adorns the Vietnam- ding all contact with the outside ese 20,000 Dong note. The 18 meter long world. covered bridge with its arch-shaped entrance is a clear illustration of the influence of three cultures

4 5 HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN

A meeting place strip and rafters. The element of The Chinese in Hoi An Vietnamese architecture is the yin-yang pan tile roof. The house is decorated with rare timber with complex carvings of dragons, fruits and flowers that reflects the prosper- ity of the home’s owners over generations. Although the house is in a low lying area prone to floods, the strong

stone foundations of this home has HaiH ộNami quán Assembly Quảng Đ Hallông Quand Dong Assembly Hall The Fujian Assembly Hall was a place for protected seven generations of traders from Fujian Province on China’s owners from flood waters sometimes The Chinese traders, like their Japanese Some traders began leaving full-time South East coast to worship their gods and as high as 2 meters. Today, Tan Ky counterparts, sailed south in the spring, agents in Hoi An to take care of off-season ancestors. It also served as a local gathering house now serves as a home and driven by winds from the northeast. They business affairs which saw Hoi An place for the Fujian community in Hoi An. chapel for the Le Chuong family. would stay in Hoi An until the summer, when become the site of the first Chinese settle- The structure, built on a model of the “Three” southerly winds would enable them to sail ment in southern Vietnam. There are still character in Chinese, stretches for 120 home. During their four-month stay in Hoi around 1500 ethnic Chinese still living in meters. The Assembly Hall includes a front An, the merchants rented waterfront houses Hoi An with the Fujian Assembly Hall still temple, sanctum, back temple and two rows for use as warehouses and living quarters. an important place to worship and meet. of houses on the east and west.

Built to Last Cool, clean water Tan Ky House is a tube-shaped home According to archaeologists, the Ba Le Chau Trinh Street and parallel to Le Loi characteristic of the architecture of homes in Tan Ky House Well was built by the Cham people in the and is 50 meters past a restaurant of Hoi An which date back more than 200 8th or 9th century when Cham people the same name. years. The house was constructed in early bartered fresh water for other products 19th century with the front originally a shop from merchants form across the world. and the back connected with the wharf for When the Kinh (Vietnamese) people handling goods. The home also operated as moved to the area around the 15th a lodge. century), the well was restored and contin- The interior of the house represent a combi- ues to be used to provide fresh water for nation of Vietnamese, Sino-Japanese archi- local residents. Local people now burn tectural styles. The Japanese influence is incense at the well on the first and fifteenth reflected in the rafter system, the Sino archi- of the lunar month. The hard to find well is tecture by a sword lying diagonal with silk located off a lane way running off Phan Ba Le Well

6 7 HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN

The Sage of Hoi An Hoi An Cultural and Historical Exhibition House

on Hoi An over time. The porcelain and pottery that you can see in the chapel also demonstrate the cultural-economic interaction between Vietnam and China in previous centuries. During the fight for independence against the French, part of the Displays at the Hoi An Tran Family Chapel bell-tower was damaged by bomb- Hoi An Cultural and Historical Exhibition House Cultural and HistoricalExhibition House ing. Small repairs to the chapel were made in 1954 and 1974. The Tran Family Chapel covers an area of The Hoi An Cultural and Historical Exhi- around 500 square meters with a front court bition House was originally the Quan An yard with shady trees, fragrant flowers and Pagoda and used to be the religious centre carefully manicured bonsai plants. of Hoi An. Built prior to 1653, the House now displays porcelain, terracotta, paper The chapel is influenced by the architectural and wood exhibits that reflect the develop- styles of Vietnam, China and Japan. The ment periods of Hoi An from the Sa Huynh main part of the chapel has three compart- culture (2nd century A.D) to the Champa ments and two lean-tos. The middle Hai Nam Assembly Hall Tan Ky House Kingdom and Dai Viet and Dai Nam compartment is dedicated to the ancestors. cultures (15th to 19th century). One of the Other parts of the chapel are used when highlights of the exhibit is the Chinese Ngu ceremonies of the family are organised Thu coin (2nd century B.C to 1st century every year, both as a place for the clan’s A.D), evidence of business with Chinese in head to stay and to receive guests. The main early times. There are also artifacts that doors of the Chapel are only used twice a clearly demonstrate that wooden boats year, during the Tet new year celebrations were being made in Hoi An more than 200 and in November, an auspicious day for the years ago. Tran family. Tran Family Chapel A member of the Tran family was one of five former sages of Hoi An, therefore the Chapel plays an important role as a place of worship for the Vietnamese and Chinese communi- ties. Horizontal lacquered boards with Chinese characters reflect the history of the family and the influence of different cultures Displays at the Hoi An Displays at the Hoi An Cultural and HistoricalExhibition House Cultural and HistoricalExhibition House

8 9 NEARBY HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN

Cua Dai Beach There are also a couple of beach front Tra Que Vegetable Village Cua Dai Beach is one of Vietnam’s most bars where you can sit back, relax and Vegetables from Tra Que are sought after not only in Hoi An but in the famed beaches. Only a few kilometers enjoy the view. broader region as well. Sea weed found in the nearby lagoon is the only from town, it is a great place to visit for a fertilizer used and the alluvial soil is especially rich. day or use one of the resorts as a base to explore Hoi An. The three kilometer The 200 farming households in the beach looks out to Cham Island and is village grow lettuce, cabbage, lapped by gentle waves and graced by onions and a broad range of coconut palms. herbs. As dawn breaks, witness fisherman In addition to enjoying the peaceful surrounds, participate in farming going out in their traditional basket boats activities, try the local shrimp, mint to get the catch of the day. At night time, and pork specialty “Tam Huu” and the scene is spectacular with the ocean An Bang beach even have a foot massage using lit up with the bright lights of squid boats. Japanese tomb in Tra Que Village some of the local herbs that have Deck chairs and water sports equipment purported medicinal benefits. are available. While you are there, try Tra Que is a great place to experi- out one of the beach side seafood ence a traditional farming village restaurants. and learn about cultivation techniques handed down from An Bang Beach previous generations. Less than An Bang Beach, a little further up the three kilometers north of the coast from Cua Dai, has a more laid centre of Hoi An, it can be visited back local feel and is one of the hidden by bike, cyclo, taxi or on a tour. gems of Hoi An. The seafood restau- rants have great food at very reasonable Cua Dai beach Tra Que vegetable village prices.

10 11 NEARBY HOI AN ANCIENT TOWN

Kim Bong Woodwork Village Tra Nhieu Village Thanh Ha Pottery Village Since the 16th century, carpenters of Kim Bong Located three kilometers from the village have been known for their professional ancient town and accessible by road skills in building houses, temples, wooden or boat, in Thanh Ha witness pottery ships and furniture. Much of their creativity can being made on wheels turned by be seen in the ancient houses, pagodas, hand as it has for hundreds of years. assembly halls and family chapels in Hoi An. In fact, the historical records show Located on the southern side of Thu Bon River that Thanh Ha village flourished in and a ten-minute boat ride from Hoi An, the the 17th-18th century making village is home to approximately 4,000 products such as bricks, tiles and Tra Nhieu is a very pretty group of residents, many who still make their living from day to day items such as earthen villages that has just recently been carpentry. Visitors can tour the village and see pots and piggy banks. Today’s Cam Thanh Water Coconut Village opened up to visitors. It can be products are even more diverse some of the traditional techniques. Cam Thanh is famed for the water coconut visited by boat and can also be including children’s toys, vases and (Nipa Palm) trees that grow in the brackish combined with a visit to My Son. lovely ornaments. waters in the estuaries surrounding the The village has a boardwalk over the village. The long leaves are used for roofing water coconuts and is also known for in the traditional houses and local villagers mat weaving and fishing. have a booming trade in making the beach This is a great village to explore by palm umbrellas that are speckled along bike and experience an authentic nearby Cua Dai Beach. Cam Thanh is a great and beautiful Vietnamese village. village to cycle around and you can take trips between the water coconuts in row boats. As a revolutionary base during war time, there are still many artifacts in and around the village.

12 13 MY SON SANCTUARY The Restoration of My Son The most important religious center of Champa Kingdom, My Son is in a beautiful valley surrounded by mountains. Its location in a small In 1895, French troops rediscovered My Son and in 1914 the French School of Far East completed detailed research on the architecture and arts of the ancient valley surrounded by high mountains had strategic as well as religious Champa Kingdom, although it was not until 1937 that the A1 Temple was restored. significance as it was an easily defensible stronghold.

The predominant style of the architecture Son. From the 13th century the Champa King- sculptures in the My Son temples is derived dom slowly declined and was absorbed by the directly from India. There is however influence growing power of the Dai Viet people. It ceased from North Vietnam, most significantly the to exist as an entity in the later 15th century and boat shaped roof visible on at least one build- My Son was no longer used as a religious site. ing. My Son did not escape the impact of the war and History of My Son in 1969 American troops bombed My Son. A The history of My Son dates back to the 4th bomb crater and bullet holes are still clearly century when King Bhadravaman had the first evident today. The bombing only stopped after wooden temple built. From the 4th-8th centu- the Director of the Cham Museum wrote to ries, each subsequent king built a temple to President Nixon. In 1976, the Vietnamese worship gods or had damaged temples Government began carrying out a de-mining restored. The My Son temples were built over program in My Son Sanctuary, however sadly six 10 centuries. people died and more than ten other were Most of the 11th century was a period of ongo- injured during de-mining operations. From 1980 ing warfare and My Son, along with other the government of Vietnam, Poland and sacred sites in the Champa Kingdom, were UNESCO have cooperating in restoration works, nearly destroyed. Harivarman IV moved his with the Polish architect Kazik playing an instru- capital to Do Ban towards the end of the mental role. century and undertook the restoration of My

14 15 MY SON SANCTUARY

The Monuments earlier of these, E1, contained a great deal of wood in The French architect and archaeologist Henry Parmen- its original construction. It is noteworthy for the sophis- tier, who studied My Son in the earlier 20th Century, tication and variety of its carved decoration. identified nearly 70 monuments which he classified into Group F has only two temples. Temple F2 has some eight main groups of tower temples logically that are decorative features which along with its overall archi- named alphabetically. tectural style indicates that it dates back to the 9th Group A century. There are thirteen temples within this group and most Group G were built in the 10th century. The main temple, A1, is Jaya Harivarman I built the five temples that comprise the highest in My Son (24m). Unfortunately much of the Group G on a hill between Groups A and E in the 12th temple was destroyed by the U.S bombing in 1969, century. One was used for the worship of the however what remains provides a fascinating insight into monarch's parents and the other was dedicated to his the grandeur of earlier times. guardian angel. There is extensive use of terra cotta, Groups B,C,D characteristic of Cham art in the 12th and 13th centu- Group B, with the associated Groups C and D, is the ries. largest concentration of temples at My Son, 27 in all. Group H They range in date from the 10th to the 12th century. Group H, to the west of the others, consists of four Temple B1 was built in 1275 and was the largest at My temples from the late 12th and early 13th centuries, Son, however it has largely been largely destroyed by among the latest to be built at My Son. Only the main bombing. Of special beauty is temple B5, an auxiliary temple H1 has survived wartime bombing. structure used for housing offerings. Group K Group E and F Temple K or the gate-tower is a single structure There are two main temples in Group E, one from the situated in the north of the valley. It is located quite 7th century and the other from the 11th century. The independently from the other towers and may have been the first place to receive pilgrims.

16 17 CHAM ISLAND

Cham Island is a cluster of eight islands, each breathtakingly beautiful, History comes alive and just off the coast of Hoi An. It was once one of the most famous In the first centuries A.D., Cham Island was on the axis of sea traffic, linking the Silk Route with major trading of the Champa kingdom. You can visit the island on a day trip or trading centers in Southeast Asia and the Middle choose to stay overnight at one of the comfortable local homestays. East. It was a convenient stop-over for merchant Blessed by Nature ships, where they could stock up on renowned products from the Champa Kingdom including silk, Cham Island has picturesque beaches and the highest agarwood, pepper and elephants’ tusks. marine biodiversity in Vietnam including 300 species of Bà Mụ temple coral, six of these endemic to the Island. Together with Archeological relics including ceramics discovered on the abundant fish life, the reefs make Cham Island a Cham Island date back to the T’ang dynasty from the great place for diving or snorkeling. 7th to 10th century. Islamic relics from the Middle East as well as from India and elsewhere in Asia have been Due to the natural conditions, flora and fauna on the discovered here as well as the remains of indigenous Island are diverse and abundant. The Island is home to people from Sa Huynh culture, more than 3,000 to 12 species of mammals, 13 species of birds, 130 3,500 years ago. species of reptiles and 5 species of amphibians. A highlight is the endangered long-tailed macaques In the 16th and 17th centuries, Vietnamese communi- monkey, you can sometimes see these mischievous Hai Tang pagoda ties moved to Cham Island and built temples, pago- creatures as they come down to the beach first thing in das, tombs and wells to meet their daily needs. Many the morning or at sunset. of these structures still exist until today and include the Hai Tang Pagoda, Tien Hien Tomb and the Xom Stunning rice fields by the ocean are fed by fresh water Cam Well which you can visit as you stroll around the springs that flow all year round. The forests are home to Island. rare products such as rattan and mulberry and many orchid species that blossom throughout the year. There Cham Island was also of strategic military importance are also around 20 wild vegetable species on the island with countries vying to control this strategic point which local residents use to prepare tasty local special- which provides access to central Vietnam. The Island ties as well as for medicinal purposes. maintains a military base to this day.

18 19 CHAM ISLAND

Xom Cam Well Visitors can take a boat trip to witness the hair raising job Xom Cam Well is in a residential area of Cam Hamlet, of retrieving the bird nests using bamboo ladders on a few minutes walk from the main jetty. It is an ancient boats anchored close to the cliffs or using a string ladder. well built in the Champa style with historical documents Community Spirit showing that merchant ships stopped on the Island for Many of the locals on Cham Island still live a very provisions of fresh water and food. It was probably traditional lifestyle of fishing and rice cultivation. You can restored by the Vietnamese when they landed on the also still see the process of hammock making and other Island. The local people still use this well with is abun- practices that utilize natural materials from the forest. Xom Cam Well Volunteers and local communities dant supply of cool and clean water. An indication about how passionate the local community A delicacy favoured by Kings is about protecting the pristine nature of the Island, is Bird’s nests were a delicacy traditionally favored by that Cham Island is the first place in Vietnam to ban kings and aristocrats and remain an important source plastic bags. The Island also produces its own electricity of income for the Islanders. Today, bird’s nest is valued through a solar energy plant that was supported by the for its purported health benefits and served at expen- Swedish International Development Cooperation sive restaurants around the country. Agency. The nests are made by the Salangane, a sea swift that Bai Huong village Homestay is renowned for its speed and ability to fly over water for A great way to experience life on Cham Island is a home- a day and a half without rest. As spring approaches, A Bird’s nest cave in Cham Island` Homestay in Bai Huong village stay in the traditional fishing village of Bai Huong Village. Salanganes return and build nests high up on the cliffs The village of 500 people lives as one large family and is of Cham Island using saliva from two glands under very welcoming of visitors. The nine homestays offer their tongue. The nests, which are no larger than half a meals, simple accommodation with mosquito nests and chicken egg in size, are removed by the islanders western style toilets. It is a great way to get a feel for before the salanganes lay their eggs, The birds have to local life on the island. With a local guides, explore the quickly rebuild their nests prior to the arrival of their beauty of Cham Island and try your hand at rowing one young. After the baby birds leave there nests, they are of the traditional round bamboo boats, fishing and swim- harvested for second time but the quality of these nests ming or snorkeling. Please contact a responsible Hoi An is not as high as those from spring. based tour operator to book your trip. Coral reef around Cham Island

20 21 Thanh Toan cover bridge, Hue Tay Giang, western Quang Nam ATTRACTIONS IN THE REGION

Ancient Relics Central Highlands and Ho Chi Hue Danang Throughout Quang Nam Province, there are Minh Trail Established as the capital of unified Viet Nam Danang, with the nearest airport to Hoi An, is hidden treasures that are often missed by Visit western Quang Nam to learn about the in 1802, Hue was not only the political but a transit spot for many visitors. It is blessed visitors. These include the Chien Dan rich culture and daily of ethnic minority also the cultural and religious centre under with beautiful beaches and is also home to Towers, five kilometers north of the Provincial groups of Co Tu, Gie Trieng, Monong and the Nguyen dynasty until 1945. The Perfume the excellent Danang Museum of Cham capital Tam Ky and just off National Highway Xe Dang. Also enjoy the breathtaking River winds its way through the Capital City, Sculpture, a great place to visit in conjunction 1A. This group of three towers were built in mountain scenery and delve into history by the Imperial City, the Forbidden Purple City with a trip to My Son. The museum displays 11th and 12th century and were dedicated to visiting the legendary Ho Chi Minh Trail, a and the Inner City, giving this unique feudal approximately 300 sculptures dating from the the deities of the Champa Kingdom, Shiva, complex web of different jungle paths that capital a setting of great natural beauty. The 5th to 15th century that were collected from Vishnu and Brahma. At the site there is a enabled troops to travel from North Vietnam Hue Citadel was recognizes as a World Cham temples and towers throughout central small display with a fascinating array of to the South. Heritage site in 1993. Vietnam. Danang was home to a major US statues. Also close by to Tam Ky are the Hue is a beautiful three hour drive up the air force base, one of the world’s busiest Khuong My Towers and 12 kilomters to the coast from Hoi An past Lang Co Beach and during the war, and the old hangers are still west of Hoi An is another relic of the Champa the Tam Giang – Cau Hai lagoon system, one visible as you drive down the coast. The Ho times, the octagonal shaped Bang An Tower. of the largest in Asia. Hue can be visited as Chi Minh Museum also has a fascinating a day trip if you are really short of time, array of helicopters, planes, tanks and other Bho Hoong Village however there is plant of things to keep you war artifacts. Bho Hoong village, 80 kilometers to the North occupied for a few days. West of Hoi An, is home to the Katu people. Visitors can enjoy the local food and rice wine Katu traditional textile weaving as well as see traditional Katu handicrafts being made. The gong music and the Tung Tung Zu Zu dance are highlights.

Hue citadel Fireworks festival on Han river, Danang city

22 23 LOCAL FOOD

The international influence on the food of Hoi An is unmistakable. A tasty treat is the White Rose, a prawn dumpling similar to Chinese dim sum. Other specialties of Hoi An and the broader region include chicken rice, large fried wontons served with a tangy sauce and Cao Lao, a tasty pork noodle dish that is best made using water Local river mussels salad from the Ba Le well. Not to be missed is My Quang, a dish that combines delicious noodles with the freshest vegetables from Tra Que village and juicy prawns from Cua Dai beach. There are many local and tourist restau- rants that serve up these local specialties as well as other dishes from around

Local noodle “My Quang” Vietnam and the world. The fresh seafood shouldn’t be missed and features on the menu of most restaurants in town as well as the beach side cafes in Cua Dai and An Bang Beach. Hoi An is a great place to learn more about by taking a cooking class. Learn some new skills, meet new friends and enjoy the fruits of you labour at the end of the class!

24 25 EVENTS & FESTIVALS

Legendary Night of Hoi An The Legendary Night of Hoi An is held on the 14th night of each lunar month. The town is lit by traditional lanterns as the power is turned off and only push bikes and cyclos can enter the town Traditional entertainment and games spill out onto the streets and colorful lanterns are floated down the river to bring good luck. Mid-Autum Festival The Mid-Autum Festival on the 14th and 15th of August in the lunar calendar is celebrated through- out Vietnam but perhaps nowhere as passionately

Miss VN Diem Huong in the Hoi An Legendary Nightas Hoi An. The streets teem with visitors and locals alike following processions of lanterns and dragon dances. Tet or the Lunar New Year In Hoi An, Tet or the Lunar New Year is celebrated by dragon dances and other forms of entertainment. Unlike elsewhere in Vietnam, many shops and restaurants remain open over the holiday period. Quang Nam Heritage Festival Every two years, the Quang Nam Heritage Festi- val showcases tradional folk games, arts and other activities and is held in locations across the Prov- ince including Hoi An, My Son, Cham Island and Dragon Dance at the Lunar New Year Phu Ninh Lake.

26 27 HANDICRAFTS AND SHOPPING

Hoi An is justifiably famous for its tailoring and the town has had a long history of trading in silk and textiles.

The many tailors in town can produce custom made clothes that fit both yourself and your onward travel plans. If you prefer to spend more time walking around the Ancient Town or relaxing on the beach, a good idea is to bring clothes for the tailors to reproduce which cuts down on the number of fittings. There are number of places in town where the process of producing silk is explained from cultivating the silk worms to the final product. Delicate embroidery from silk which sometimes takes months to produce makes a great gift. Learn how to make pottery the traditional way in Thanh Ha village or purchase some of the pottery in the handicraft shops in town. Tradi- tional lantern making is also a fascinating activ- ity as well a great memento of Hoi An. Tradi- tional woodwork from Kim Bong village also makes a great souvenir. The Hoi An Handicraft Workshop is a great place to both learn about and purchase traditional handicrafts.

28 29 VISITOR INFORMATION

Danang airport, 30 minutes taxi ride north of Hoi An is serviced by regu- lar flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh and a number of other destinations in Vietnam. Danang is also home to the closest train station and there is regular bus services to Danang, Hue, Nha Trang and further afield.

Getting Around Walking and bicycle are great ways to explore Hoi An. As Hoi An is surrounded by a network of waterways, local boats and kayaks are also a great way to get around and visit some of the nearby villages. Most hotels along Cua Dai beach free shuttles to the Ancient Town and taxis, motor bike taxi and cyclos are readily available. In Hoi An: In Tam Ky: Day Tours Hoi An Tourism Information Office Quang Nam Department of Culture, Sports & Tourism Use this guide to get off the beaten track or Address: 45 Le Loi street, Tel: +84 5103 910919 Address: 2 Tran Phu street, Tel: +84 5103 859879 Hoi An Tourist Guide Office: Quang Nam Provincial Public Security contact one of the many tourism operators Address: 5 Hoang Dieu street, Tel: +84 5103 861159 Address: 11 Tran Hung Đao street, Tel: +84 5103 852579 to book tours or activities. Quang Nam Tourism Promotion and Information Center: Tam Ky railway station: Address: 118 Tran Hung Đao street, Tel: +84 5103 916961 Address: Nguyen Hoang road, Tel: +84 5103 828488 Accommodation Quang Nam Tourism Association: There is a broad range of accommodation In Duy Xuyen: Address: 118 Tran Hung Dao, Tel: +84 5103 623260 My Son World Heritage management board available from simple hotels and guest Hoi An Public Security: Address: Duy Phu commune, Tel: +84 5103 731757 Address: 8 Hoang Dieu street, Tel: +84 5103 861204 houses to five star resorts. Hoi An hospital: Address: 4 Tran Hung Dao street, Tel: +84 5103 864750 Hoi An Traditional Art Performance Theatre Address: 75 Nguyen Thai Hoc street, Tel: +84 5103 863873

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Hoi An Beach Resort Phu Thinh II hotel

Hoi An Beach Resort is a four-star resort situated between the romantic De Vong Phu Thinh II Hotel style is simple, uncluttered, and stylized, river and famous Cua Dai Beach. It consists of luxurious old Vietnamese-style which would offer you a comfortable space. From each room’s houses and villa rooms. It is recognised by travelers worldwide as "an oasis of balcony, you can have nice view of the hotel’s garden and Lotus peace where the river meets the ocean". It is just four kilometers from the historic Lake, the rice field or enjoying the gentle breezes from the Thu town of Hoi An. 35 km (a 45 minute drive) from Danang International Airport and Bon river. At the same time, you can watch either the early railway station. morning sunrise or the romantic passionate- red sunset. Phu Thinh II Hotel provides conveniences for transportation, only In its day the principal trading port for the whole of central Vietnam, Hoi An has 5 mins to either the ancient town of Hoi An, Cua Dai beach or long been proud of its reputation for gracious hospitality. W eare dedicated to other local tourist spots. continuing this tradition today in our new and luxurious beach resort. There is so Add: 488 Cua Dai street, Hoi An city, Vietnam much to see in the area - historic Hoi An town, the My Son temple complex, the Email: [email protected] Cham Museum in Danang and, just over the pass, the former royal capital of Hue Tel: (84)510 - 923923 - that you could easily stay an extra day.

Address: 01 Cua Dai street, Hoi An town, Quang Nam province, Viet Nam Website: http://www.hoianbeachresort.com.vn/ Tel: (++84 510) 3927011 Fax: (++84 510) 3927019 Hoi An Eco-tour is the local fishing Family run business whose owner is Mr. Tran Van Khoa (Jack Tran) providing a privileged opportunity for travelers to experience the first hand, the authen- tic day-to-day lives of the local hard-working, fun-loving Vietnam- Hoi An Eco-tour ese people.

Contact information: Indochine Hoi An T: 05103 928 900- Fax: 0510 3 928 901 H: 0914 082 850- 01234 33 11 11 Indochine Hotel Hoi An was designed to recall the French colonial style at the W: www.hoianecotour.com.vn turn of the 20th century - so while it might look nostalgic, the reality is that the E: [email protected] hotel is one of the newest in Hoi An. The Indochine Hotel Hoi An has a perfect blend of atmosphere that draws from a number of attractive details: green garden; riverside fishing villages, Cua Dai beach, ancient town and period architecture. Address: 87 Cua Dai road, Hoian town, Quang Nam province, Vietnam Telephone: ++84 510 392 3601 / 392 3602 / 392 3603 Fax: ++84 510 392 3400 Email: [email protected] Website: http://www.hoianindochine.com

Palmgarden Resort

Set on 5 hectares of landscaped tropical garden in an enviable beach Zeroseamile Restaurant location, the Palm Garden Resort offers a green environment with over 400 species of palm trees and plants right along a 220-meter stretch of the The Zero Seamile Club is located on Cua Dai Beach , Hoi An famous Cua Dai Beach in the UNESCO-recognized world heritage site of Hoi City, and Quang Nam Province. The traveling time to the Club is An Ancient City. 25 minutes by car from International Airport and Hoi An's most glamorous and indulgent retreat, Palm Garden Resort has another 5 minutes to Hoi An Ancient Town .The Zero Seamile been awarded as the Green Hotel Standard 2010-2011 by ASEAN and since Club is landscaped with several unique species of coconut trees, 2006 during five consecutive years for The Excellent Performance by as well as furnished it with selective Vietnamese products of silk, Vietnam Economic Times and The Guide Magazine. wood, and natural ceramics. Add: Lac Long Quan Street, Cua Dai Beach, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Add: Cua Dai Beach-Hoi An-Viet Nam Tel:++84.510.3 911 911 Province, Vietnam Fax: ++84.510.3 928 911 Email: sales@ zeroseamile.com Tel: (84.510) 3.927.927 Fax: (84.510) 3.927.928 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://palmgardenresort.com.vn 32 33 Advertisement Advertisement

Montgomerie Links Golf Course Le Nguyen Travel

LÊ NGUYỄN INTERNATIONAL TRAVEL LIMITED COMPANY One of tour operators in Vietnam since 2002 in Hoi An, Le Nguyen interna- tional travel limited company is operating inbound and outbound tours in Indochina. We also do some tourist services such as: Passport making, visa application, hotel reservation, Air and train tickets booking, roadway and waterway transportation…. CINNAMON CRUISES Cinnamon Cruises belongs to Le Nguyen international travel company operating tours on the water in Hoi An such as: • Hoi An Sunrise experience. • Sunset dinner cruise • Sunset cocktail cruise • Cooking class on board Cinnamon Cruises The over-arching design philosophy behind a Colin Montgomerie golf course is to work closely with natural characteris- • My Son heritage and cooking cruise tics of the site. Montgomerie Links Vietnam has the good fortune of having truly outstanding natural features. The sandy • Dinner cruise soil, wind-blown dunes, and indigenous vegetation combine to create the framework for a very strong links golf course. • Cham island discovery The course routing is an exciting mixture of heathland and links style holes which cater to players of all abilities. Add: 32 Le Loi street, Hoi An city General Enquiry For Driving Range & Tee Time Bookings Add: Dien Ngoc Commune, Dien Ban Dist, Tel: +84 5103 8505605 (English) [email protected] Golf Reservations: Quang Nam Province, Vietnam +84 5103 699699 (Vietnamese) Tel: +84 (510) 3941 942 Tel: +84 (510) 3942 942 Tel: +84 (510) 3941 942 Fax: +84 510 3916427 - 3910825 Fax: +84 (510) 3941 940 Email:[email protected] Fax: +84 (510) 3941 940 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] http://www.cinnamoncruises.com

Cua Dai Beach Chu Lai Eco - resort Located 4 km to the east of Hoi An old town, the beach of Cua Dai is about 3 km long, 1 km of which is ideal with white sand, blue sea, clear, sunshine, cool water and sloping sea floor. Therefore it is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Central Viet Nam. Along the beach is a stretch of willow trees. From very early in the morning, the living force of fishing villages is going on vividly and impressively while early swimmers from town come to the beach in great numbers. Spending your weekends or holidays in our Resort, you will have a great time to swim in the cool stream of Cua Dai Beach or an helpful exercise in the gym, a game at billiards. Or you just lay down by the sea to refill your energy, keep your health stronger and fully relax with fresh ocean wind. Name of sports Rates Parasailing 33 USD/1person/15 munites Jet Ski 35 USD/ 30 munites Chu Lai Eco-resort which locates in the Chu Lai economic zone, Quang Banana Boat 33 USD/1–5 people/15 munites Nam province is not only a stop over for visitors on their discovery journey Windsurf : along the central coast of Vietnam, but also an ideal relaxation place with + Beginner 35 USD/1 person/2 hours its 2km long white sandy beach. + Experienced 15 USD/1 person/2 hours The resort which has a museum where over 3000 artifacts are displayed, provides an overview of Vietnam’s history. Visitors can also explore the evolution of the nine ancient civilizations, including the Sa Huynh - Oc Eo. Sinh Open tour

The main feature of the "OPEN TOUR" is a daily bus service. Moreover, on the journey, at your demand and interest, the traveller could stop by and visit any famous destinations nation wide. Chu Lai Eco-resort At each of your stop place, you should reconfirm in advance (24 h) at our Central region investment Jsc., nearest booking office your departure time so that we arrange the next trip Chu Lai economic zone, Tam Nghia commune, for you. Nui Thanh district, Quang Nam province, Vietnam With a motto "To maximize the satisfaction of diverse needs of the Tel: +84 510 2474 782 traveller" - We are pleased to serve you. Email: [email protected] Sinh office in Hoi An: 587 Hai Ba Trung Str., Tel: 0510.3863948 www.chulairesort.vn 34 35 Hoi An Ancient Town tourist map

Tourism Information Market

Pagoda / temple / Shrine Parking

Japanese Covered Bridge Museum

Ancient House Traditional Music Theatre

Walking Avenue Port / Dock

36 37 Hoi An vicinity tourist map

Hoi An Ancient Town Beach

Tourism Information Scuba Diving / Snorkelling

Pagoda Nature Reserve

Handicraft Village Bicycle Route

Japanese Tomb Bus Station

Port / Dock

38 39 Quang Nam provincial tourist map

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Tourism Information

Cham Temple / Heritage

Pagoda

Handicraft Village

Historic War Site 604 Phong Nam (Ancient Village)

Ethnic Village 60 Beach

14B Scuba Diving / Snorkelling

Nature Reserve

Mountain

Thermal Spring

Waterfall

Gondola 14B

Dock / Port

Airport

Border Crossing

Bản đồ du lịch phố cổ Hội An

40 41 Hoi An regional tourist map

UNESCO World Heritage Site Beach

Tourism Information Scuba Diving / Snorkelling

Cham Temple / Heritage Nature Reserve

Pagoda Mountain

Handicraft Village Gondola

Historic War Site Airport

Thermal Spring Port / Dock

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