Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An

Crafting Memories in Hoi An: Silk, Lanterns, and Flavors

Today was a vibrant blend of cultural immersion and culinary exploration in Hoi An. From the delicate art of lantern making to the intricate world of silk production and the explosion of flavors at local eateries, it was a day that truly awakened the senses. I'm excited to share the highlights with you all!

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at SENSE COFFEE and CRAFT BEER. I know, the name might sound more suited for an evening rendezvous, but they also serve a wonderful breakfast menu. Hans opted for a traditional Vietnamese coffee, while I enjoyed a refreshing fruit smoothie. Fuelled up, we were ready to dive into the day's adventures.


Experience Da Nang's best local brews at SENSE COFFEE and CRAFT BEER - where quality meets comfort in every sip.
Our first stop was the Silk Village Hoi An - The Tourist. It was fascinating to witness the entire silk-making process, from the cultivation of silkworms to the intricate weaving of the fabric. I've always admired silk, but seeing the dedication and artistry that goes into creating it gave me a whole new level of appreciation. The village was a living museum of mulberry, silkworms, tools, and traditional Cham-Dai Viet textile methods. We even had the chance to wander through the mulberry gardens and learn about the different stages of silk production.


Experience the rich heritage of silk weaving at Silk Village Hoi An, a captivating tourist attraction in Vietnam that combines culture, craftsmanship, and cuisine.
I was particularly captivated by the intricate patterns and vibrant colors of the finished silk products. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the mechanics of the looms. We learned that Hoi An's silk trade has a rich history, dating back centuries when the town was a major trading port. The village also offered a refreshing drink made from orange juice, lime juice, mulberry juice and sprite. It was a welcome treat after wandering through the village.

Sometimes, the most beautiful discoveries are found in the simplest of crafts.

Next on our itinerary was a Lantern Making Class With Lynn. This was an experience I had been eagerly anticipating, and it did not disappoint. The workshop was a colorful explosion of silk, bamboo, and creativity. Lynn, our instructor, was incredibly patient and guided us through each step of the process, from shaping the bamboo frame to carefully stretching the silk over it.


Immerse yourself in Hoi An's rich cultural heritage with a hands-on lantern making class, perfect for tourists seeking unique experiences.
I chose a vibrant turquoise silk for my lantern, while Hans opted for a more traditional red. It was a bit challenging at first, but with Lynn's expert guidance, we soon got the hang of it. I found the process meditative, and it was incredibly satisfying to see our creations take shape. It took the full two hours to complete the lantern. I am so happy with how my lantern came out and it’s a great souvenir and reminder of all the good memories of our time in Hoi An. As someone who enjoys working with my hands, I found the lantern-making process incredibly rewarding.

After our creative morning, it was time for lunch at Tra Que Minty Garden. This charming restaurant is located in the Tra Que Vegetable Village, known for its organic farming practices. The setting was idyllic, surrounded by lush greenery and the fragrant aroma of herbs. We enjoyed a delicious meal featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. I opted for the Cao Lau, a Hoi An specialty, while Hans savored the Quang noodles. The vegetables were incredibly fresh and flavorful, a testament to the village's commitment to organic farming. The fresh, pure flavor of Tra Que vegetables has captivated many diners, becoming an indispensable part of Hoi An cuisine.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Tra Que Minty Garden – A unique blend of cooking classes and dining amidst lush greenery.
After lunch, we strolled through the vegetable gardens, learning about the different herbs and vegetables grown there. It was fascinating to see how the farmers used traditional methods, such as seaweed from the Co Co River, to fertilize their crops. I was particularly impressed by their commitment to sustainable farming practices. It was inspiring to see how they work with nature, not against it.

Before dinner, we made a stop at Friendly shoe shop. I've been needing a new pair of walking shoes, and I had heard that Hoi An is famous for its tailor-made leather goods. The shop was filled with beautiful handcrafted shoes and bags. I was impressed by the quality of the leather and the attention to detail. After browsing for a while, I decided to have a pair of sandals made to order. I chose a simple design with comfortable straps, perfect for exploring the town. Hans, of course, couldn't resist ordering a pair of custom-made boots.


Explore the Friendly Shoe Shop in Hội An for exquisite handcrafted footwear and leather goods, reflecting the artistry of Vietnamese culture.
As the sun began to set, we made our way to Hoi An Riverside Restaurant for dinner. The restaurant boasts a waterfront terrace with views of the Thu Bon River, and is the only restaurant in Hoi An to have been honoured with the Award of Excellence from the 2020 Wine Spectator Awards. The setting was magical, with the lights of the town reflecting on the water. We enjoyed a delicious meal of Vietnamese specialties, accompanied by a crisp white wine. The perfect end to a perfect day.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine with stunning riverside views at Hoi An Riverside Restaurant.
Reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience the rich culture and culinary delights of Hoi An. It's days like these that remind me why I love to travel, to learn, and to connect with people from different backgrounds. Hoi An has definitely captured my heart with its lantern-lit streets, tailor shops, and riverside setting.

Tomorrow, Hans and I are planning to delve deeper into Hoi An's cultural tapestry with a visit to Hoi An Memories Land and The Timeless Hoi An. We'll also be sampling the local fare at Cafe Sữa 2 for breakfast, Sabirama Cooking Tour & Restaurant for lunch, and Cơm Linh - Vietnamese Restaurant for dinner. To cap off the day, we're planning a relaxing evening at Market Bar - Market Terrace. I can't wait to see what adventures tomorrow brings!

Until then, xin chào from Hoi An!