Located along the Thu Bon River, the ancient town of Hoi An in Quang Nam province is an ideal destination for both domestic and foreign visitors.

Hoi An Port was called Dai Chiem Port when it was first used by mostly Japanese and Chinese merchants, some of whom set up shop and stayed in in the town. In those early days Hoi An was a major trade center in Southeast Asia and a destination for vessels from the Far East.

The older houses in Hoi An are interesting works of art. They were built in different styles and within each one can see quite different kinds of carving and decor. Hoi An is sometimes called a living museum. The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) recognized Hoi An as a world cultural heritage center.

Since 1998, on the 14th day of each lunar month, Tran Phu, Nguyen Thai Hoc, Le Loi and Bach Dang Roads in Hoi An are illuminated by lanterns only. Wandering along these four streets one could imagine what it might have been like 300 hundred years ago.

Hoi An is charming and hold the remains of a glorious past that have been well preserved.

VietNamNet/VEN