Hoi An history – The intersection of cultures
Hoi An, with its ancient houses bearing the mark of time, is one of the most attractive destinations in Vietnam. This place is not only a world cultural heritage but also a living museum, marking the ups and downs of history. From a bustling trading port in the past, Hoi An has undergone many changes to become the ancient city it is today. Let’s explore interesting stories about Hoi An history with us!
General introduction about Hoi An
Hoi An has long become a favorite destination for many tourists. Located on the romantic Thu Bon river, Hoi An ancient town is only about 30km from the vibrant city of Da Nang. With unique architecture that is a delicate interference between Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese styles, Hoi An is like a living museum, marking the ups and downs of history. Because of this special cultural value, in 1999, UNESCO officially recognized Hoi An ancient town as a World Cultural Heritage, making Vietnam’s name shine on the world tourism map.
Read more: 5 days in Hoi An: A comprehensive guide for a perfect trip
History of Hoi An formation
Hoi An, a famous world cultural heritage, has a rich history of formation and development. Hoi An’s history began around the second half of the 16th century, in the context of the country being divided between two major powers, the Mac Dynasty in Dang Ngoai and Lord Nguyen in Dang Trong.
During this period, to avoid conflicts and seek development opportunities, Lord Nguyen Hoang chose Quang Nam land, especially the lower Thu Bon River area, to build a base. With a favorable geographical location, close to the sea, Hoi An quickly became a bustling commercial port. This place became a trading point for Japanese, Chinese, Dutch, Portuguese merchants… These merchants brought to Hoi An valuable goods and also brought away the typical products of this land. The East-West cultural exchange created a diverse and unique Hoi An.
However, after its golden age, Hoi An also experienced the ups and downs of history. By the 19th century, with the emergence of larger seaports, Hoi An gradually lost its position as a leading trading port. However, Hoi An’s unique cultural and architectural values ββwere still preserved. Thanks to efforts to preserve and develop tourism, Hoi An has become one of the most attractive destinations in Vietnam, attracting millions of visitors each year.
Where does the name Hoi An come from?
Hoi An – the name sounds familiar, but its origin is extremely rich and interesting. In the Sino-Vietnamese sense, “Hoi An” means “peaceful gathering place”, expressing the desire for a peaceful and prosperous life of the people here. However, before bearing this name, Hoi An went through many name changes.Β
During the Champa period, this place was called Dai Chiem Haikou, a busy port. When the Chinese came to trade, they called this place Hoai Pho, because Hoi An is located on the banks of the Hoai River. After Portuguese merchants came here to trade, the name “Faifo” appeared. This name comes from a distorted reading of the word “Hoai Pho”. The diversity in naming shows Hoi An’s vibrant trading history and diverse cultural interference.
Architectural features of Hoi An ancient town
Hoi An Ancient Town, a unique world cultural heritage, possesses an architectural system bearing the mark of East – West cultural interference. Hoi An ancient town architecture is a harmonious combination of traditional elements of Vietnam, China, Japan and modern influences from France. This creates a unique beauty that cannot be confused with anywhere else.
Outstanding features of Hoi An architecture are tube houses with narrow, deep facades. Houses are usually built of wood, with yin-yang tile roofs and brick walls. The main yellow color of the houses not only brings a warm, ancient beauty but also shows the wealth and prosperity of the owner. Besides, the wooden door system, intricately carved paintings, colorful lanterns… further embellish the unique beauty of the architecture here.
Famous historical sites in Hoi AnΒ
Coming to Hoi An, you will not only learn about the history of this place but also have the opportunity to explore unique architectural works, bearing the mark of time. Below are some places you can visit when coming to Hoi An:
Cau Pagoda
Covered Bridge, also known as Japanese Bridge or Lai Vien Kieu, is one of the most famous symbols of Hoi An. Built in the 17th century by Japanese merchants, the bridge spanning a small branch of the Thu Bon River has a quiet, ancient beauty, harmoniously combining Japanese and Vietnamese styles. Covered Bridge is not only a unique architectural work but also a place to worship Bac De Tran Vo, the protective deity who brings peace and happiness to the people. Therefore, when you come here, you will not only admire the unique architecture but also feel peaceful and relaxed.
Hy Hoa Temple of the Five Elements
Hy Hoa Temple of the Five Elements is a unique architectural work with a three-aisle entrance gate, decorated with stucco techniques and beautiful pieces of ceramic cups and plates. The temple worships the Five Elements fairy, a deity believed by people to have the power to control the five elements: metal, wood, water, fire, and earth. Hy Hoa Five Elements Temple is not only a sacred place of worship but also a destination that attracts tourists because of its unique architecture and peaceful space.
Quan Thang ancient house
Quan Thang Ancient House is one of the most beautiful and famous ancient houses in Hoi An. Built around the 18th century, this house is a masterpiece of wooden architecture with intricate, meticulous carvings. All the details in the house, from the walls adorned with delicate patterns to the ancient wooden doors, all demonstrate the talent and ingenuity of the artisans of Kim Bong Carpentry village. Hoi An’s history is vividly recreated through every small corner of the house, helping visitors better understand the lives of ancient Hoi An people.
Cam Pho Communal House
Cam Pho Communal House, an ancient communal house associated with the history of Hoi An, has witnessed many ups and downs of time. The communal house is not only a place to worship Thanh Hoang, Dai Can and river gods, but also a cultural and religious center of the community. Cam Pho Communal House has become an indispensable part of the spiritual life of local people and an attractive destination for tourists.
Famous festivals in Hoi An that you should participate in
In addition to learning Hoi An’s history and visiting historical relics, you can spend some time participating in the traditional festivals of this land. This will help you understand more about the people and culture here. Some famous festivals in Hoi An that you should participate in include:Β
- Lady Thu Bon Festival: From the 10th to the 12th of the second lunar month every year, Hoi An is bustling with the Lady Thu Bon Festival. This is an opportunity for local people to express their respect to the goddess who has blessed their lives. The festival is not only a solemn ritual but also includes cultural and sports activities such as cooking competitions, tug of war competitions, folk art performances, etc.
- Cau Bong Festival: On the 7th of the first lunar month every year, Cau Bong Festival takes place in Tra Que vegetable village, bringing a joyful and rustic atmosphere. The festival is not only an occasion to commemorate the contributions of those who founded the village but also an opportunity for people to cherish long-standing traditional values.
- Long Chu Procession: On the 15th of the seventh lunar month, the Long Chu Procession in the coastal fishing villages of Hoi An becomes the center of attention. The splendidly decorated dragon boats, along with the bustling sound of festival drums, created a truly bustling atmosphere. The festival is not only a religious ritual but also an opportunity for the fishing village community to show solidarity and unity. People pray together for a peaceful new year, favorable weather, and a good catch of seafood.Β
- Kim Bong Carpentry Village’s death anniversary: ββKim Bong Carpentry Village, with its long-standing tradition of carpentry, holds an annual death anniversary on the 6th day of the first lunar month to commemorate the contributions of those who founded the craft village. The festival is not only an occasion to honor the traditional craft but also an opportunity to promote the village’s products to tourists.
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Where to rest in Hoi An?
Hoi An, with its ancient beauty and romantic beaches, is always an attractive destination for tourists. If you are looking for a luxurious and relaxing getaway to enjoy your vacation, then Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is a perfect choice.
Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is located at Binh Minh beach – one of the most beautiful beaches in Hoi An An, providing visitors with a peaceful and classy resort space. The resort is designed in a modern style, in harmony with nature, creating a relaxing and comfortable living space. The rooms here are fully equipped with modern amenities, giving guests the feeling of being at home.
One of the highlights of Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness is the modern spa and health care system. Here, visitors can relax with massage treatments, saunas, mineral baths… to help reduce stress and restore energy. In addition, the resort also has an infinity pool, gym, tennis court… to meet the entertainment needs of visitors.
The history of Hoi An is a long story about cultural interference, about the rise and decline of a bustling trading port. To this day, Hoi An is still one of the most attractive destinations in Vietnam, where visitors can explore ancient beauty and learn about a heroic past. For a perfect trip to Hoi An, don’t forget to visit Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness. With a prime location and professional service, the resort will bring you unforgettable experiences. Contact hotline 0912.060.558 to make a reservation today.
