How to Plan Your Hoi An Tour: My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Cruise

Planning a trip to Hoi An and looking for a unique way to experience the region’s culture and stunning landscapes? Look no further than the My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Cruise tour, which takes you on a journey through the ancient kingdom of Champa to witness the beauty of My Son, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, followed by a leisurely cruise down the Thu Bon River.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through the details of the tour, including what to expect, how to book, and tips for making the most of your experience.

Overview of the Tour

This small-group tour begins with a pickup from your hotel in Hoi An, taking you on a scenic drive through the countryside to the My Son Sanctuary heritage site. Here, you’ll explore the remnants of the Champa Kingdom’s stunning architecture, including temples and towers that date back to the 4th century.

After discovering the history of My Son, the tour takes you to a nearby village for a traditional Apsara performance, featuring dancers in colourful costumes moving to the rhythms of traditional music. You’ll then continue on to the Thu Bon River, where you’ll board a boat for a relaxing cruise through the scenic countryside. Along the way, you’ll stop at a local fishing village to learn about the importance of fishing in the region, and enjoy a delicious lunch of local specialties.

What’s Included in the Tour

When you book this tour, you can expect the following inclusions:

– Roundtrip transportation from your Hoi An hotel
– Boat cruise on the Thu Bon River
– English-speaking tour guide
– Traditional Apsara dance performance
– Entrance fee to My Son Sanctuary
– Lunch featuring local specialties

What’s Not Included in the Tour

While the tour includes most of the essentials, there are a few things you should keep in mind that are not included:

– Tips for your tour guide and boat crew
– Beverages with lunch or on the river cruise

Important Details to Consider

Before booking your tour, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you have the best possible experience:

– This tour is not recommended for people with mobility impairments as there is a significant amount of walking involved at My Son Sanctuary.
– The tour runs rain or shine, so be sure to bring appropriate clothing for the weather.
– For those with dietary restrictions or preferences, please notify the tour provider in advance so they can accommodate your needs.

How to Book the Tour

If you’re ready to experience the beauty and history of Hoi An on the My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Cruise tour, booking is easy. Simply click on the following link: book the tour here.

You’ll be taken to the tour provider’s website, where you can select your preferred date and time, provide your hotel information for pickup, and complete your booking. Be sure to bring a printed or electronic copy of your confirmation with you on the day of the tour.

Final Thoughts

With its combination of stunning architecture, traditional dance, and scenic beauty, the My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Cruise tour is a unique way to experience the beauty and culture of Hoi An. We hope this guide has helped you plan your tour and make the most of your visit to this beautiful region.

An Insider’s Guide to Hoi An, Vietnam

Hoi An is a charming city located in central Vietnam, known for its well-preserved ancient architecture, culinary delights, and riverside setting. This Insider’s Guide will provide you with all the necessary information to plan a Hoi An tour, focusing on two main attractions: My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Cruise. However, there is so much more to explore in this enchanting city. Here are some must-see attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions.

Attractions

Hoi An Old Town: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An Old Town is a pedestrian-only zone with well-preserved ancient architecture, reflecting an amalgamation of Chinese, Japanese, and European cultures. Wander along the narrow streets lined with old shop houses, visit the emblematic Japanese covered bridge, and enjoy the colorful lanterns at night.

Tra Que Vegetable Village: Located on the outskirts of Hoi An, Tra Que is a small farming community, known for its fresh organic vegetables. Take a bicycle ride through the lush green fields, watch the farmers at work, and learn how to cook some authentic Vietnamese dishes.

Hoi An Night Market: The night market is an essential part of the Hoi An experience. It showcases local crafts, street food, souvenirs, and much more. It’s the perfect place to buy some unique gifts for your loved ones back home.

Dining Spots

Morning Glory: One of the most famous restaurants in Hoi An, Morning Glory specializes in traditional Vietnamese dishes. The menu features some unusual delicacies such as deep-fried little crabs and crispy pork belly.

Mango Mango: If you’re looking for a romantic dining experience with a river view, Mango Mango is the perfect spot. The menu offers fusion cuisine, including Vietnamese, Thai, and western dishes, and the cocktails are exceptional.

Reaching Out Tea House: This is a must-visit spot for all tea lovers. Reaching Out Tea House is a tranquil oasis located in the heart of the Old Town. The tea house offers an extensive collection of teas, served in artisan ceramics, and accompanied by some delightful bites.

Cultural Experiences

Hoi An Silk Village: Vietnam is renowned for its silk production, and Hoi An Silk Village provides an opportunity to see the silk-making process. Take a guided tour to learn about the art of silk weaving, then shop for some luxurious silk products at the on-site shop.

Bai Choi: Bai Choi is a traditional Vietnamese game and a popular cultural performance, often played at festivals and weddings. The game involves singing, music, and prize-winning cards. Attend a Bai Choi performance to experience a piece of authentic Vietnamese culture.

Local History

Hoi An Museum: The Hoi An Museum provides a window into the city’s rich history. The museum displays artifacts, antiques, and photos, depicting the city’s history from its early days as an important trading port, through the Vietnam War.

Quan Cong Temple: Quan Cong Temple is an ancient Chinese temple, dedicated to a Chinese military general. The temple dates back to the 17th century and reflects the strong Chinese influence in Hoi An.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Cam Thanh Village: Located just a few kilometers from the city center, Cam Thanh Village is a peaceful escape from the bustling city. The village is known for its coconut tree groves, which can be explored by boat. Take a relaxing ride on a bamboo basket boat and learn about local fishing techniques.

Thanh Ha Pottery Village: Hoi An is famous for its pottery, and Thanh Ha Pottery Village is one of the oldest in the region. Take a guided tour to see the pottery-making process, then try your hand at making your pottery souvenir.

Conclusion

Hoi An is a treasure trove of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re exploring the ancient town, dining on local delicacies, or learning about the city’s rich history, Hoi An is an unforgettable destination. With this insider’s guide, you’ll be well-equipped to plan a perfect Hoi An tour, including My Son Sanctuary and Thu Bon River Cruise, as well as exploring the city’s more hidden gems.