Cultural and Culinary Adventure in Hoi An

Whispers of the Past

Today, Hans and I dove deeper into the cultural heart of Hoi An, a town that continues to enchant us with its blend of history, art, and vibrant local life. From the iconic Japanese Bridge to the lively Hoi An Market, every corner held a new story, a new flavor, and a new memory. The day was a beautiful reminder of why we embarked on this journey in the first place – to immerse ourselves in the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Like Quán.


Discover the vibrant flavors of Vietnam at Like Quán Bistro in Da Nang - where local tradition meets modern cuisine.

I savored a steaming bowl of Pho, its fragrant broth awakening my senses and preparing me for the day's explorations. Hans, ever the adventurous one, opted for a local Banh Mi, declaring it the perfect way to start the day. We discussed our plans for the day, eager to revisit some favorite spots and discover new ones. The weather in Hoi An in October is quite warm, with a chance of rain, so we made sure to bring our umbrellas.

Our first stop was Chùa Cầu, the Japanese Covered Bridge.


Discover the iconic Chùa Cầu in Hoi An, a beautifully designed Japanese Covered Bridge that encapsulates the rich history and vibrant culture of Vietnam.

This iconic landmark, with its serene temple nestled inside, is more than just a bridge; it's a symbol of Hoi An's history and the harmonious blend of cultures that have shaped this town. As we walked across, I imagined the merchants and travelers of centuries past, crossing this very bridge to trade goods and ideas. The bridge was constructed in the 17th century by Japanese merchants. Legend says that the bridge was built to suppress a mythical creature, Namazu, that caused earthquakes. The intricate wooden structure and the peaceful temple within offered a moment of quiet contemplation amidst the bustling town.

The true journey of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes.

After soaking in the history of the Japanese Bridge, we decided to immerse ourselves in the local arts scene. We headed to the Hoi An Traditional Art Performance House.


Discover the magic of Vietnam's cultural heritage at the Hoi An Traditional Art Performance House, where captivating performances await every visitor.

The Hoi An Traditional Art Performance House was established in 1996. The daily show is performed in a room on the second floor. Before going upstairs, visitors need to show their Hoi An Old Town ticket. The show combines music, dance, and storytelling, offering a glimpse into Vietnamese art culture. The artists are enthusiastic and professional, bringing life to the historical artifacts of Hoi An. As the music filled the air, I felt a deep connection to the stories being told, stories of love, loss, and the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people. Hans, with his engineering mind, was particularly fascinated by the traditional musical instruments, admiring their craftsmanship and unique sounds.

Lunchtime found us at Nhà hàng Già Rừng, a restaurant recommended by a local artist we met earlier in the day.


Discover authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Nhà hàng Già Rừng in Da Nang - a must-visit destination for food lovers.

The restaurant was a little gem tucked away from the main streets, offering a respite from the tourist crowds. We shared a plate of Cao Lau, a local noodle dish unique to Hoi An. The thick noodles, savory pork, and fresh greens were a symphony of flavors in my mouth, a true culinary delight. Hans enjoyed a plate of Mi Quang, another local noodle dish with shrimp, pork, and lots of greens. The restaurant's ambiance was warm and inviting, with traditional Vietnamese decor and friendly staff.

No visit to Hoi An is complete without a trip to the Hoi An Market.


Explore Hoi An Market, a bustling hub of local culture where fresh produce, handicrafts, and delicious street food await in Vietnam's ancient town.

This bustling hub of local life is a feast for the senses, with colorful displays of fresh produce, aromatic spices, and a myriad of local handicrafts. As we wandered through the maze of stalls, I was captivated by the energy and the vibrant interactions between vendors and shoppers. We bought some fresh herbs and spices to bring back to Hannover, hoping to recreate some of the delicious dishes we've tasted here. The Hoi An Market is the largest market in the town. Vietnamese have a bargaining culture, so it is possible to get a better price.

For dinner, we chose Restaurant & Cafe Tuấn Rich Flavor of Hoi An Vietnamese Familly Restaurant, drawn in by its cozy atmosphere and the promise of authentic Vietnamese cuisine.


Experience authentic Vietnamese cuisine at Tuấn Rich Flavor Restaurant in Hoi An - a culinary journey full of rich flavors and warm hospitality.

The restaurant is family-run, and the staff are very welcoming. I savored a plate of White Rose dumplings, a Hoi An specialty, while Hans indulged in a flavorful Banh Xeo. The warm hospitality of the staff made us feel like we were dining with family, a perfect end to a day of cultural immersion. The restaurant is known for its rich, authentic flavors.

As the sun began to set, we strolled along the Thu Bon River, watching the colorful lanterns light up the night sky. The gentle breeze carried the sounds of traditional music, creating a magical atmosphere that is unique to Hoi An. We reflected on the day's experiences, feeling grateful for the opportunity to witness the beauty and resilience of this enchanting town.

Tomorrow, our last day in Hoi An, we plan to visit Cua Dai Beach and the Quan Cong Temple. We're also hoping to enjoy a final taste of Hoi An's nightlife at Woop Woop Bar. As our adventure in Hoi An draws to a close, I am filled with gratitude for the experiences we've shared and the memories we've created. This trip has not only enriched our understanding of Vietnamese culture but has also deepened our appreciation for the simple joys of life – good food, good company, and the beauty of exploring new places.

Hoi An has captured a piece of my heart, and I know that I will carry its spirit with me long after we've left its shores.

As I sit here, penning down the day's adventures, I realize how much this journey has transformed me. It's not just about seeing new places; it's about experiencing new cultures, savoring new flavors, and connecting with people from all walks of life. It's about finding beauty in the ordinary and appreciating the richness of our world.

And as I prepare for our final day in Hoi An, I am filled with a sense of anticipation and excitement. I know that tomorrow will bring new adventures, new discoveries, and new memories to cherish. And I can't wait to share them with you all.

Good night from Hoi An!

Mali