This area was founded as a port in the 15th century and was a huge trading centre for merchants from China, Japan, Holland, France and Portugal. You can still see the influences of many different cultures in the town today. The Old Town really is a legacy of Japanese merchant houses, Chinese temples and ancient tea warehouses.
Given the history of Vietnam it's actually quite amazing that as many of the buildings are as well preserved as they are, and in 1999 the old streets of Hoi An were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
I spent most of the day just wandering along the river and through the streets of the old town. I'll do my best to share it with you in a few photos.
Firstly the streets of Hoi An:
Hoi An Old Town is awash of historic buildings, many of which date back to the mid-1700's and some even earlier. Today I just took pictures of some from the outside, tomorrow I'm hoping to visit inside a few.
The Japanese Covered Bridge was constructed in 1593. According to one story, the bridge's construction started in the year of the monkey and finished in the year of the dog; thus one entrance is guarded by monkeys and the other by dogs.
Some of the people of Hoi An:
And the other thing about Hoi An is it's also the place to get a whole new wardrobe. Tailor-made clothing is one of Hoi An's best trades and there are over 200 tailor shops in town.
To satisfy your curiosity --- yes, I am having a couple of things made.
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