Hội-An, the ancient town in Việt-Nam

           The ancient town of Hội-An, known as Faifoo in Europe, 30km south of Đà Nẵng (Việt Nam), lies on the banks of the Thu-Bồn river. As one of the major trading centers of Southeast Asia, Hội-an played a central role in the commerce between Vietnam and the rest of the world from the 16th to the 19th century. It was one of the oldest cities in South-East Asia and also one of the most important ports for the exchange of commodities between the West and the East. Many merchants from China, Portugal, Japan, Holand, France...came to deal with valuable products : silk, fabrics, elephant tusks, jewelry, porcelain, peper and cinnamon.

           Over past 500 years, Hội-an still remains nearly intact with old harmonious combination of Chinese, Vietnamese and Japanese architecture. Along narrow streets, the low, titled-roofed houses were made of rare wood, decorated with lacquered panels engraved with Chinese characters. Pillars were also carved with ornamental designs.

           Coming to Hoi-an, tourists can visit the relics of the Sa-huynh and Cham cultures. They can also enjoy the beautiful scenery of the romantic Hội-an river, the clean blue Cửa Đại beach and the imposing Chàm island.

           The Hội-an ancient town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Over the last few years, Hoi-an became a very popular tourist destination in Việt Nam.