Tra Kieu station – The perfect stop on your North-South train journey to discover Hoi An

by Bliss Hoi An September 12, 2025 232

A North-South train journey across Vietnam always carries a sense of adventure – and now, it can be even more exciting with a stop at Tra Kieu Station. Nestled in the heritage-rich land of Quang Nam, this small station serves as a “gateway” to discovery – from the mystical My Son Sanctuary and tranquil Thu Bon River villages to the lantern-lit charm of Hoi An Ancient Town. This stop transforms your train ride into a multi-dimensional journey, giving you the chance to step off, breathe in the fresh countryside air, and explore Central Vietnam at your own pace.

Tourism potential of Tra Kieu station – A gateway to new opportunities

The classic North-to-South train journey across Vietnam has just become even more exciting with the addition of a new stop: Tra Kieu Station. Located in Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam, this small railway station has suddenly turned into a “gateway” for travelers to fully explore the heritage-rich central region. Adding Tra Kieu to the itinerary allows passengers to step off the train, breathe in the peaceful countryside air, and begin their journey through the charming Thu Bon River villages.

From the station, travelers can easily reach many famous destinations. The lantern-lit ancient town of Hoi An, the eco-friendly Tra Nhieu Village, and the lush coconut groves of Cam Thanh are all just a short ride away. A little farther lies My Son Sanctuary – a UNESCO World Heritage site where visitors can admire the mysterious Champa architecture. This convenience transforms the train trip into a multidimensional experience – not just admiring the landscape through the window but truly immersing oneself in the local culture.

Tra Kieu Station also opens up opportunities to combine different types of tourism. Travelers can pair the train journey with road tours, river cruises, or even cycling trips through the countryside. With improved infrastructure – from the railway network to Chu Lai Airport and national highways – Tra Kieu is poised to become an important transit hub, making the cross-country trip even more diverse and appealing.

The emergence of Tra Kieu Station on the railway tourism map is more than just a stopover – it is an invitation to stay a little longer, to discover the culture, people, and nature of Quang Nam before continuing the train journey further south.

Suggested travel plan for visitors

If your North-to-South train journey includes a stop at Tra Kieu Station, don’t just stay on board – step off and make the most of this unique opportunity. This charming little stop is the perfect gateway to explore the hidden gems of Quang Nam. Here’s a well-paced, one-day itinerary designed to help you soak in the region’s history, culture, and scenery before you continue your rail adventure:

Itinerary 1: One-day itinerary from Tra Kieu Station

Make the most of your stop at Tra Kieu Station with this well-balanced itinerary that combines culture, heritage, local flavors, and relaxation before you hop back on your train and continue your cross-country journey.

07:00 – 07:30 | Arrive at Tra Kieu Station – Transfer to My Son Sanctuary

Step off the train and hop into a pre-booked car or private transfer straight to My Son Sanctuary (about a 25-minute ride). Arriving early allows you to avoid the midday heat and catch the first Apsara dance performances of the day.

08:00 – 10:30 | Explore My Son Sanctuary

Wander through the ancient Cham temple complex and discover the fascinating history of the Champa Kingdom. Snap beautiful photos of the lush valley and moss-covered towers. Don’t miss the graceful Apsara dance show, usually held in the morning.

Looking for a more immersive experience? Join a My Son Sanctuary Tour from Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness to enjoy hassle-free transfers, guided insights, and the best photo spots without worrying about logistics.

11:00 – 12:00 | Lunch in Duy Xuyen or on the way to Hoi An

Savor local specialties such as Mi Quang with chicken, Cao Lau noodles, or rice crackers with stir-fried clams. If you’re on a guided tour, lunch is often pre-arranged at a local restaurant.

12:30 – 14:00 | Experience Tra Nhieu Village or Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

Continue toward Hoi An and stop at Tra Nhieu or Cam Thanh for a rural adventure. Ride a traditional basket boat through the coconut palm forest, learn about the daily life of local fishermen, and enjoy a refreshing coconut drink. If you prefer, rent a bike and pedal around the village lanes for a deeper countryside experience.

14:30 – 16:30 | Stroll through Hoi An Ancient Town

Spend a relaxing afternoon wandering the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An. Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, and the bustling Hoi An Market. Pause for coffee, local desserts like sweet tofu pudding, or a famous Banh Mi Phuong sandwich. Shop for handmade souvenirs to bring home.

Step off the beaten path and see Hoi An like a local! Our Hoi An City Tour takes you beyond the lanterns to hidden alleys, ancient houses, and stories that bring the town to life – reserve your spot today!

16:30 – 17:00 | Return to Tra Kieu Station

Head back to the station in time for your departing train. Have your luggage ready to ensure a smooth continuation of your North-to-South railway adventure.

Read more: My Son Sanctuary Vietnam – Champa cultural heritage

Itinerary 2: Heritage & Ancient town discovery

For travelers who want a balanced mix of history, culture, and the charm of Hoi An, this itinerary is a seamless way to explore before catching your next train.

07:00 – 07:30 | Arrive at Tra Kieu Station – Transfer directly to My Son

Meet your pre-arranged car and head straight to My Son Sanctuary (about 25 minutes).

08:00 – 10:30 | Explore My Son Sanctuary – A UNESCO World Heritage Site

Wander through the temple clusters, listen to stories of the Champa Kingdom, and capture photos of the ancient towers framed by a lush valley. Don’t miss the morning Apsara dance show.

Enjoy Hoi An specialties (Source: Sun Travel)

11:00 – 12:00 | Lunch with Quang Nam specialties

Sample local dishes such as Mi Quang noodles, Cao Lau, or Hoi An chicken rice at a local restaurant.

Craving the real taste of Hoi An? Join our Hoi An – Street food tour to savor authentic local dishes and discover the stories behind them. Book your tour now and kick off your delicious culinary adventure!

12:30 – 14:00 | Tra Nhieu Ecological Village

Paddle a small boat along the river, bike through peaceful lanes, visit local homes, and enjoy the countryside atmosphere.

14:30 – 16:30 | Hoi An Ancient Town

Visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, explore the bustling market, and sip coffee or herbal tea while watching the streets come alive.

16:30 – 17:00 | Return to Tra Kieu Station

Head back in time to board your next train and continue the North-to-South journey.

Itinerary 3: A “green” day in the countryside & river villages

If you love nature, village life, and hands-on experiences more than historical sites, this itinerary is designed just for you.

07:00 – 07:30 | Arrive at Tra Kieu Station – Head to Tra Nhieu village

This stop is closer than My Son, giving you more time to enjoy a slow-paced morning.

08:00 – 10:00 | Immerse in village life

Bike through the village paths, visit ancient houses, learn to make rice paper, ride a traditional basket boat, and chat with friendly locals while enjoying herbal tea.

If you have more time and crave a truly unique experience, hop on a Hoi An Countryside Vespa Tour and ride through rice paddies, villages, and hidden trails for an unforgettable adventure.

10:30 – 12:00 | Cam Thanh Coconut Forest

Hop in a basket boat, watch fishermen casting nets, and enjoy a fun “basket boat dance” performance.

12:00 – 13:00 | Lunch by the river

Feast on fresh local seafood at a riverside restaurant.

13:30 – 15:30 | Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Stroll through the heritage sites, take lantern photos, and soak up the charm of this UNESCO-listed town.

15:30 – 16:30 | Relax & Shop

Enjoy coffee, cool drinks, or shop for handicrafts and souvenirs to bring home.

16:30 – 17:00 | Return to Tra Kieu Station

Make your way back to the station to catch the next train.

After a full day of exploring My Son, cycling through countryside villages, and strolling the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, it’s time to slow down and treat yourself. Let your tired legs and body unwind with a soothing massage or a rejuvenating spa treatment at Ngoc Linh Spa at Bliss Hoi An. The serene ambiance, skilled therapists, and gentle aroma will leave you completely refreshed and ready for the next chapter of your journey.

Make the most of your stop at Tra Kieu Station with Bliss Hoi An’s curated sightseeing tours. Whether you want to explore the ancient My Son Sanctuary, wander the lantern-lit streets of Hoi An, or ride through the peaceful countryside on a vintage Vespa, our travel desk will plan every detail for you. Book in advance and turn your train stop into an unforgettable journey through history, culture, and local life.

Read more: Discover Cam Thanh village Hoi An

Travel tips for stopping at Tra Kieu Station

To make the most of your stop at Tra Kieu Station, prepare a few key details in advance. These tips will help you save time and fully enjoy the highlights of Quang Nam.

Choose the right train schedule

If possible, pick a train that arrives at Tra Kieu Station early in the morning. This gives you a full day to explore My Son Sanctuary, Hoi An Ancient Town, or the countryside villages. Trains arriving at noon or late afternoon can limit your time and make it harder to catch the next departure.

But don’t worry if you arrive later in the day – if your schedule allows, consider staying overnight at Bliss Hoi An Beach Resort & Wellness. This gives you time to slow down, enjoy the quiet countryside, and continue your adventure the next morning feeling refreshed.

Tra Kieu Station is small and has very few taxis waiting. Booking a private car or contacting your hotel/tour provider beforehand ensures you have a vehicle ready when you get off the train. This lets you head straight to your first destination without wasting time.

For Bliss Hoi An’s guests, once you step off the train, Bliss Hoi An will take care of the rest. A private car will be waiting to pick you up right at the station, with staff helping you with your luggage. Enjoy a cool towel and bottled water during the ride, and relax as you are driven straight to the resort for a stress-free check-in.

Choose your seat wisely

If you are sensitive to motion sickness, pick a lower berth or a seat near the middle of the train, where there is less swaying. Avoid seats close to the ends of the carriage, as they tend to shake more.

Motion sickness tips

Bring motion sickness tablets or ginger candies if you are prone to feeling unwell on trains. Sit facing the direction of travel, keep your head steady, and avoid reading for long periods. Looking out the window at the horizon can also help your body stay balanced.

Visit key sites first

Plan to visit My Son Sanctuary in the morning to avoid the midday heat and catch the Apsara dance performance. Then continue to Tra Nhieu, Cam Thanh, or Hoi An Ancient Town – all of which are great to explore in the cooler afternoon hours.

Double-check your return train schedule

Confirm the next train time before heading out for sightseeing. Arrive at the station at least 20-30 minutes early to collect your luggage and board comfortably.

Tra Kieu Station is an invitation to step off the train and connect deeply with Quang Nam. Here, you can wander through ancient Cham towers, cycle past lush rice paddies, stroll the lantern-filled streets of Hoi An, and taste local favorites like mi Quang and cao lau. And after a full day of adventure, treat yourself to a relaxing night at Bliss Hoi An, complete with a rejuvenating spa session, before catching your next train and continuing your unforgettable cross-country journey.