Hoi An ancient town safeguards its past to shape a vibrant future

An aerial view of Hoi An ancient town. (Photo: VOV)

Hoi An, nestled in Vietnam’s Quang Nam province, is a town where history whispers from every corner. Recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site in 1999, this enchanting destination has spent 25 years safeguarding its heritage while embracing sustainable development. The result? A vibrant blend of the past and the future, making Hoi An a must-visit destination for culture enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.

A Living Museum of History and Culture

Founded in the 16th century, Hoi An thrived as one of Southeast Asia's busiest trading ports, welcoming merchants from China, Japan, India, Spain, and the Netherlands. This rich history is etched into the town’s architecture and culture, a harmonious convergence of Eastern and Western influences. Wander through its streets, and you'll be charmed by moss-draped rooftops, ochre-colored walls, and serene waterways that reflect a bygone era.

Hoi An’s ancient town is home to 27 nationally recognized relics, nine of which lie within its heart. Declared a special national relic, it showcases an exceptionally well-preserved example of a traditional Asian trading port. UNESCO has praised Hoi An as a material manifestation of cultural fusion in an international maritime hub.

Heritage Preservation as a Community Effort

According to Nguyen Thanh Hong, head of Quang Nam’s Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, Hoi An's success lies in its collaborative approach to preservation. Local people and businesses play active roles in conserving the town’s architecture and traditions, creating a model acknowledged by UNESCO as a benchmark for leveraging heritage to drive sustainable development.

Six craft villages practicing 50 traditional crafts, including Thanh Ha pottery, Kim Bong carpentry, and Tra Que vegetable farming, contribute to Hoi An’s vibrant cultural landscape. These villages not only preserve centuries-old skills but also provide unique tourism experiences.

Mask-maker Bui Quy Phong emphasizes the importance of safeguarding these traditions: “Hoi An is a complex of relics and culture worthy of being cherished for future generations.”

Celebrating Intangible Heritage

Hoi An’s intangible cultural heritage is equally captivating. Events like the Lantern Festival, Mid-Autumn Festival, and Bai Choi singing bring its streets alive with color, music, and tradition. These festivities are not just cultural milestones but also major attractions for both domestic and international visitors.

A Global Model for Conservation

Carpenter Huynh Suong creates a wooden statue
of the Goddess of Mercy.  (Photo: VOV) 

Hoi An’s commitment to heritage has attracted international collaboration. Partnerships with cities in Germany, Japan, South Korea, and Hungary have brought valuable resources and expertise to conservation efforts. Nguyen Van Lanh, Vice Chairman of the Hoi An People’s Committee, highlights the importance of these alliances in enhancing local capabilities and promoting the town’s values worldwide.

Looking ahead, Hoi An aims to integrate digital technology into heritage management, enabling innovative ways to showcase its history. The town aspires to become a leading cultural-ecological tourism hub, blending tradition with modernity.

A Vision for the Future

Hoi An’s journey from a bustling trading port to a UNESCO-recognized heritage site is a testament to the power of preservation. With an ambitious plan to become an eco-cultural-tourism city, the town is setting a global standard for balancing heritage and development.

Whether you’re marveling at its timeless architecture, exploring its craft villages, or immersing yourself in its vibrant festivals, Hoi An offers an unforgettable glimpse into a world where the past shapes the future.

Plan your visit to Hoi An, and experience the magic of a town that treasures its history while looking boldly ahead.