Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An with Friends

A Day of Artistic Immersion in Hoi An

Today was a day of diving deep into the artistic soul of Hoi An. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel – the chance to witness and participate in traditions that have been passed down through generations. Jan would have loved to join me today, but he had some work to catch up on, so I decided to explore these cultural gems on my own.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Bale Well restaurant. Finding it was an adventure in itself, tucked away in a small alley off Phan Chu Trinh Street. The reviews online raved about the experience, and they weren't wrong! It wasn't just a meal; it was a hands-on culinary lesson. I was presented with a set menu of Banh Xeo (Vietnamese pancakes), spring rolls, and grilled meats. The owner, a vibrant woman with a warm smile, showed me how to assemble the perfect roll, layering the smoky pork, crispy pancake, and fresh herbs into the rice paper. It was a bit fiddly, and I definitely didn't master the art, but the explosion of flavors made it all worthwhile. The atmosphere was buzzing with locals and tourists alike, all happily constructing their own culinary masterpieces.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Bale Well Restaurant in Hội An - a must-visit culinary destination for tourists.

The soul of Hoi An isn't just in its ancient streets, but in the hands that craft its pottery and weave its silk.

With a satisfied stomach, I set off for Thanh Ha Pottery Village. Located a short distance from Hoi An's Ancient Town, the village offered a glimpse into a world where pottery-making has been passed down for centuries. The air was thick with the scent of clay, and the rhythmic whir of pottery wheels filled the narrow lanes. I wandered through the village, peeking into workshops where artisans skillfully shaped clay into cups, jars, and bowls. Unlike many studios that use molds, the artisans here shape each piece by hand and foot pedal without using molds, giving every item a distinctive and unique touch. It was mesmerizing to watch their hands at work, coaxing beauty from the earth.


Experience the traditional art of pottery making in Thanh Ha Pottery Village, Hoi An, Vietnam, where craftsmanship and culture come together.

I decided to try my hand at the wheel, and let me tell you, it's not as easy as it looks! With the patient guidance of a local craftsman, I managed to create a wobbly, lopsided bowl that I was immensely proud of. It was far from perfect, but it was a tangible reminder of my experience in Thanh Ha. The ticket fee to Thanh Ha Pottery Village was 35,000 VND for adults, which included access to the village, visits to historical sites, a pottery-making class with artisans, a souvenir clay whistle, and round-trip transfers within the village. I also visited The Xuan My Communal House and Nam Dieu Temple of the pottery founders.

Next on the agenda was the Silk Village Hoi An. The village opens from 8 AM to 9 PM and the ticket price to visit and explore the craft village is 50,000 VND. This place was a complete contrast to the rustic charm of the pottery village. It was a celebration of silk in all its glory. I learned about the entire process, from the cultivation of mulberry trees to the raising of silkworms and the intricate weaving of silk fabric. I even had the chance to try my hand at reeling silk from a cocoon – another skill that proved more challenging than I anticipated! The showroom was a riot of colors, with silk garments, scarves, and accessories in every imaginable hue. I was particularly fascinated by the Ao Dai collection of 54 ethnic groups across Vietnam, each one a unique expression of cultural identity.


Experience the rich heritage of silk weaving at Silk Village Hoi An, a captivating tourist attraction in Vietnam that combines culture, craftsmanship, and cuisine.

After immersing myself in the world of crafts, I was ready for a late lunch. I headed to Cơm Linh - Vietnamese Restaurant, which had been recommended by several locals. The restaurant was bustling, but I managed to snag a table and ordered the Hoi An chicken rice and bun cha. The chicken rice was fragrant and flavorful, while the bun cha was a refreshing mix of grilled pork, noodles, and fresh herbs. It was the perfect fuel for the rest of my day.


Discover authentic Vietnamese flavors at Cơm Linh in Hội An - where tradition meets taste in every delightful dish.

With renewed energy, I decided to do some shopping. Hart Hoi An - Upcycled Home Decor caught my eye with its unique collection of upcycled and handmade items. It’s a must-visit for those who appreciate art and sustainability. The store featured stunning kimonos, beautiful indigo-colored woven products, and amazing ceramics. I loved the concept of breathing new life into old materials, and I found a beautiful indigo scarf made from recycled fabric. It was the perfect souvenir – a stylish and sustainable reminder of my time in Hoi An.


Explore Hart Hoi An for exquisite upcycled home decor and unique antiques, where every purchase supports local artisans and sustainable practices.

As evening approached, I was ready to unwind. I made my way to Double Cat Bar, a popular spot known for its energetic vibe and vibrant entertainment. The bar boasts a spacious setting with a large stage for artist interactions and a high-quality sound system that ensures an electrifying musical experience. I enjoyed a refreshing cocktail while listening to live music, soaking in the lively atmosphere. It was the perfect end to a day filled with creativity and cultural immersion.


Discover cocktail creativity and a warm ambiance at Double Cat Bar, a must-visit cocktail and wine destination in beautiful Hội An.

Tomorrow, I'm planning to explore Hoi An Handicraft Tours and Hoi An Lune Center for the Performing Arts. I am also hoping to visit Shop quà tặng hàng handmade Hội An (Lee's Quilt) and UNO Hoi An Bar and Restaurant. I can't wait to see what new adventures await!

Looking back on the day, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude. Hoi An has a way of captivating your senses and leaving you feeling inspired. It's a place where tradition and creativity intertwine, creating a truly magical experience. It reminded me of the vibrant markets back home in Kenya, where artisans pour their heart and soul into their craft. It is a reminder of home, but with a Dutch twist, of course!

I am so glad I got to experience this day and I cannot wait to share with Jan all that I learned today!