Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Cruise

Hoi An is a captivating city in central Vietnam, renowned for its history-laden streets, architecture, and World Heritage Site. While in Hoi An, you should make it a priority to head out of the city and explore two of the area’s important attractions: the My Son Sanctuary and a Thu Bon River Cruise.

My Son Sanctuary

My Son Sanctuary is a complex of Hindu ruins that date back to the 4th to 13th century which were added to the list of UNESCO World Heritage sites in 1999. Located about 69 kilometers (43 miles) from Hoi An, the complex is located in a lush valley surrounded by mountains.The sanctuary is divided into different enclosures, with each enclosure containing several individual structures. The main temples, such as the Sanctuary, Temple A, Temple B, and Temple C are all connected by a walkway lined with bas-reliefs depicting stories from Hindu mythology. Within each enclosure, there are also statues of Hindu gods and carvings on the walls. When visiting My Son Sanctuary, it’s important to note that it can get unbearably hot in the sun, so make sure that you bring appropriate attire and generous amounts of sunscreen and water. It is also suggested that you wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking to do. One of the great advantages of My Son Sanctuary is that there are no crowds, compared to other destinations such as Angkor Wat in Cambodia, so it’s a great way to experience history in peace and quiet.

Thu Bon River Cruise

A trip to Hoi An isn’t complete without experiencing a boat ride down the Thu Bon River, which runs directly through the city. While some cruise companies may just take you on a straight journey up and down the river, there are many other companies that offer tours of places nearby along with cultural performances such as tai chi classes and traditional singing. The cruises usually last between 2 to 3 hours and they offer an incredible view of how locals live, providing a glimpse into their everyday life. On the river, visitors can observe locals fishing in traditional boats, colorful floating markets, along with some amazing temples. Depending on the tour you choose, you may even be taken right into the city to observe impressive ancient architecture such as the Japanese Bridge or Chua Ong Pagoda. Aside from the UNESCO site in town and the incredible views of Hoi An from the river, it’s common for many boats to stop off somewhere along the way for lunch. This is a great way to savour some deliciously authentic Vietnamese food prepared by locals on board the boat. A Thu Bon River Cruise is an educational and enjoyable way to appreciate the beauty of Hoi An and get closer to locals who have chosen to stay in the region despite its arduous history.

Conclusion

A day trip to My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Cruise is an ideal way to soak in the beauty and history of Hoi An without having to break the bank. Whether it’s a DIY day trip or through a tour agency offering pick-up service right from your hotel, this is an experience that must not be missed when visiting Hoi An! To book a tour or activity such as this one, you can go to GetYourGuide, where they offer various tours and activities tailored to your needs with flexible cancelation options.

Insider’s Guide to Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Cruise

Hoi An, a town located in central Vietnam, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a popular destination for tourists from all over the world. The town is known for its stunning architecture, rich culture, delicious cuisine, and scenic locations. In this guide, we will explore some of the best things to do in Hoi An, including visiting the My Son Sanctuary and taking a Thu Bon River Cruise.

Attractions in Hoi An

Hoi An Ancient Town is a must-visit attraction, with its picturesque streets, lantern-lined alleys, and historic buildings. The town is home to several museums, such as the Museum of Folk Culture and the Museum of Trade Ceramics, where tourists can learn about Vietnam’s rich history and culture.

My Son Sanctuary, a magnificent cluster of Hindu temples situated in the heart of a lush green valley, is another popular attraction in Hoi An. The ancient temple complex, which dates back to the 4th century, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is accessible by a scenic drive through the countryside.

Visitors can also explore Hoi An’s beautiful beaches, such as An Bang Beach and Cua Dai Beach, which offer crystal clear waters and sandy shores. Furthermore, the Marble Mountains, a cluster of five marble and limestone hills, is located just a short drive from Hoi An, and a visit should be included in your itinerary. The mountains are home to several caves and temples and offer breathtaking views of the coastline.

Dining Spots in Hoi An

Hoi An is renowned for its incredible street food, and a visit to this town would be incomplete without experiencing the local cuisine. Cao Lau, a noodle dish made with pork slices and fresh herbs, is a popular local dish and can be found at most street food stalls.

There are several restaurants in Hoi An where tourists can try traditional Vietnamese dishes and contemporary cuisine. Morning Glory serves authentic Vietnamese food, while Mermaid serves delicious seafood dishes and also has a fantastic rooftop bar perfect for sundowners.

Cultural Experiences in Hoi An

Tourists can experience the local culture and learn about Hoi An’s traditions by taking a cooking class. Several tour companies offer cooking classes that usually start with a visit to the local market to buy fresh produce. Tourists can learn how to prepare delicious Vietnamese dishes, such as spring rolls, pho, and bun cha.

Another way to experience the local culture is by attending a lantern-making workshop. Hoi An is famous for its colorful lanterns, and tourists can learn how to make their own lanterns and even take them home as souvenirs.

Local History and Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions

Hoi An has a rich history that is evidenced by its buildings, which are a mix of Chinese, Japanese, and traditional Vietnamese styles. Tourists can take a walking tour of the town’s historic buildings or visit the Japanese Covered Bridge, a landmark that dates back to the 18th century.

For those looking to escape the crowds, a visit to the Tra Que Vegetable Village is a great option. The village is located just outside Hoi An and is home to several vegetable and herb gardens. Tourists can learn about traditional farming methods and even participate in the farming activities.

Another off-the-beaten-path suggestion is a visit to Cam Thanh Village, where tourists can kayak through the mangrove forests and experience the local fishing villages. The village is located just a few kilometers from Hoi An and offers a peaceful escape from the town’s hustle and bustle.

In conclusion, Hoi An is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Vietnam. The town has something to offer for everyone, from its rich culture and history to its breathtaking scenery and delicious cuisine. A visit to Hoi An’s My Son Sanctuary and a Thu Bon River Cruise are highly recommended and should be included in any itinerary.