I. Overview of Da Nang - Hoi An

1. Da Nang

Located in the coastal region of Central Vietnam, Da Nang is renowned for its dynamic urban landscape and vibrant colors, attracting numerous international friends. More than just the Golden Bridge shrouded in early morning mist or the Carp-Dragon Statue sparkling under fireworks, Da Nang is also an important center for culture, education, healthcare, politics, economics, and society. Unlike the grandeur of Saigon or the orderly charm of Hanoi, exploring on your own, you'll notice the blend of "old" and "new" in both architecture and the daily life of the locals. Da Nang has always been one of the most beloved tourist destinations in Vietnam. People flock to Da Nang for various reasons: it's a place where the sea, mountains, and rivers converge in beauty, the locals are friendly, and the modern lifestyle of a city continuously growing. It's these factors that keep Da Nang's tourism scene constantly buzzing.

2. Hoi An

Hoi An is a city in Quang Nam province, once known as a bustling trading port with many famous landmarks still preserved to this day. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, Hoi An's Ancient Town is one of the most vibrant trade ports of the past and a famous tourist destination today. Exploring Hoi An brings a sense of nostalgia with its rows of yellow wooden houses, ancient architectural structures, shimmering river, and picturesque streets. For many compelling reasons, Hoi An remains an irresistible destination for countless tourists.

II. Exploring Da Nang - Hoi An for Foreign Travelers

1. Places to Visit in Da Nang

1.1. Ba Na Hills

Nestled at an altitude of 1,487 meters above sea level, Ba Na Hills opens up a "European sky in the midst of urban life." It's a favorite spot for Instagrammers, boasting a plethora of dazzling photo opportunities. From the renowned Golden Bridge, listed by Time magazine as one of the top 100 destinations in the world, to the French Village, Le Jardin D’Amour Flower Garden, Wax Museum, and Debay Wine Cellar, there's no shortage of attractions. And let's not forget the exhilarating experience of gliding through the clouds on the world's longest cable car line, gazing at the majestic scenery of the mountains.

1.2. Son Tra Peninsula

Also known as the "green fairy," Son Tra Peninsula spans 3,439 hectares with a year-round cool climate and the most diverse ecosystem in Da Nang. A visit to Son Tra Peninsula guarantees stunning photos with its rugged landscapes, mysterious caves, ancient temples, and lush greenery. The Linh Ung Pagoda atop Bai But, Son Tra Peninsula, is also a must-visit attraction. This newly constructed complex houses the tallest Quan The Am Bodhisattva statue in Southeast Asia, recognized by UNESCO.

1.3. Marble Mountains

Thuy Son, Kim Son, Hoa Son, Moc Son, and Tho Son are the five limestone mountains that make up the Marble Mountains - a captivating destination known for its towering cliffs, mysterious caves, and ancient temples. With its multi-tiered greenery and refreshing weather, the Marble Mountains offer a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Visitors often flock here to admire the beautiful scenery and explore the traditional stone carving village of Non Nuoc, which has been around for over 400 years.

1.4. Than Tai Hot Springs Park

Think you have to travel to distant Japan to enjoy Osen - a luxurious hot spring bathing experience? Think again. Spread over 60 hectares amidst lush mountains and pristine forests, Than Tai Hot Springs Park is home to a variety of natural hot spring pools, healing caves, and a network of mineral-rich streams. Children will be delighted with the 9D and 12D cinema and the colorful water park here.

1.5. 3D Art in Paradise Museum Da Nang

Experience beauty and uniqueness in a simple way! Located on Tran Nhan Tong Street, Tho Quang, Son Tra, Da Nang City, the 3D Art in Paradise Museum is Vietnam's premier multidimensional art treasure trove. With over 130 3D artworks created by talented artists from South Korea, this museum creates a "magical and dazzling" space, perfect for capturing "thousand likes" photos on Instagram. The museum is divided into 9 separate themes; you can immerse yourself in the rolling waves of the sea or participate in the Dragon Battle. Sounds intriguing, doesn't it?

1.6. Upside Down World

What if the world suddenly turned upside down? Humans sleeping on ceilings or struggling to cook at a 180-degree angle? That's the new, humorous, and exciting experience you'll get at Upside Down World in Da Nang. Not only does it feature eye-catching furniture arranged in a unique way, but the rooms also boast a variety of themes for visitors to explore; such as Classic House, Doraemon House, or Hello Kitty House. Upside Down World is also where your hidden acting talent shines, producing many memorable photos.

1.7. Hai Van Pass

Located about an hour's drive from the center of Da Nang, Hai Van Pass stretches 21 kilometers, with the highest peak at 496 meters above sea level. Hai Van means "ocean cloud" in Vietnamese. It was once described by Jeremy Clarkson, host of the reality TV show Top Gear (UK), as "one of the most beautiful coastal roads in the world."

There are currently two roads through Hai Van Pass: the road tunnel through Hai Van Pass (not suitable for motorbikes) and Hai Van Pass road.

The road tunnel through Hai Van Pass is open daily, with a toll fee. The tunnel is closed from 3am to 4am each day for cleaning, maintenance, and repairs. If you take the tunnel route, you won't be able to enjoy the scenery or visit some famous landmarks on Hai Van Pass.

Hai Van Pass road is open daily, free of charge. Travelers should choose this route if they want to experience the thrill of conquering the pass and enjoy the scenery. Visitors should remember to reduce their speed whenever there is fog.

1.8. Iconic Bridges

Da Nang is known as the city of bridges in Vietnam. Dragon Bridge, Han River Swing Bridge, Tran Thi Ly Bridge, and Love Bridge are popular attractions for sightseeing and checking in. Near Love Bridge is the Carp-Dragon Statue.

Dragon Bridge is most crowded on weekend nights when there is a water and fire-breathing dragon show. From 9pm, many tourists and locals gather on the bridge, along the banks of the Han River, or in nearby high-rise buildings.

Vehicles on both ends of the bridge are stopped for 15 minutes during the show. Visitors should choose the appropriate direction to stand, or wear raincoats or use umbrellas to avoid getting wet while watching the water show.

Han River Swing Bridge is the first swing bridge in Vietnam. The Han River Swing Bridge is 487.7 meters

1.9. My Khe Beach

My Khe Beach was once voted by Forbes magazine (USA) as one of the 6 most attractive beaches in the world and in the top 25 most beautiful beaches in Asia in 2021 by TripAdvisor. The beach stretches 900 meters along Pham Van Dong Street, in Son Tra District. Watching the sunrise at My Khe Beach, tourists have the opportunity to learn more about the lives of local fishermen.

2. What's interesting about Hoi An?

2.1. Japanese Covered Bridge

The Japanese Covered Bridge stands as a gem in the heart of Hoi An. Built at the end of the 16th century, it is also known as the Japanese Bridge. In the middle of the bridge, there is a small temple dedicated to the Huyen Thien Dai De deity. The bridge features a unique roof and decorative structures, showcasing a harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and Western architectural styles.

2.2. Phuc Kien Assembly Hall

Legend has it that the precursor of the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall was a small shrine dedicated to the Thien Hau Thanh Mau deity (the goddess who protects merchants from storms at sea) salvaged from the Hoi An coastline in 1697. Through multiple renovations, primarily funded by the Phuc Kien Chinese community, the assembly hall became more splendid and magnificent, contributing to the embellishment of Hoi An's ancient urban architecture.

2.3. Trieu Chau Assembly Hall

Built by the Trieu Chau Chinese community in 1845, the assembly hall is dedicated to General Ma Yuan, a deity believed to control the winds and waves, aiding merchants in seafaring and trading. The assembly hall holds special architectural value with its intricate carved wooden frame and exquisite woodwork, along with porcelain artworks.

2.4. Tran Family Chapel

The Tran Family Chapel was built in 1802 by a Tran family official (a prominent lineage that migrated from China to Hoi An in the early 1700s). It follows traditional Feng Shui principles of both Chinese and Vietnamese cultures. Situated on a plot of land approximately 1500 square meters in size, it includes various sections such as ancestral worship halls and exhibits related to the family lineage. The Tran Family Chapel is an ancient architectural style of Vietnamese ancestral temples, preserving its original form intact.

2.5. Museum of Trade Ceramics (Mau Dich)

The Museum of Trade Ceramics in Hoi An preserves ceramic artifacts dating from the 9th to the 19th century, originating from various countries. These artifacts vividly reflect the maritime trade in ceramics during Hoi An's heyday as a major trading port. The museum also exhibits numerous antique items brought by international traders of the past, especially ancient Chinese ceramics.

2.6. Cua Dai Beach

Cua Dai Beach is a beautiful stretch of coastline with fine white sand, clear blue water, gentle waves, and seafood stalls offering fresh and affordable delicacies. Visiting Cua Dai Beach in the evening is also wonderful, as the vast beach sparkles under romantic oil lamps.

2.7. Ancient Townhouses of Hoi An

The image of ancient townhouses with yellow walls and tiled roofs is perhaps the soul of Hoi An. These townhouses, most of which are nearly 200 years old, are predominantly built of wood with tiled roofs. Famous clusters of ancient townhouses include Tan Ky House, Phung Hung House, Quan Thang House, among others. These townhouses have plaques documenting the history of each house, and visitors can pay a nominal fee of about 20,000 VND for admission.

2.8. Hoi An Night Market

Exploring Hoi An at night is an essential experience when visiting. In the evening, lanterns illuminate the streets, creating a glamorous and mystical atmosphere reminiscent of ancient towns. Walking around Nguyen Hoang Street, visitors can choose from a variety of handicrafts and souvenirs as gifts.

III. Da Nang - Hoi An Cuisine Exploration

1. What does Da Nang offer?

1.1. Pork Rice Paper Rolls

This dish may seem simple, but the meticulous selection of ingredients is what makes it special. The pork used is typically from the ham or shoulder, and the accompanying vegetables must be fresh, including lettuce, basil, fish mint, banana flowers, cucumber, green bananas, bean sprouts, etc. The dipping sauce, made from carefully selected ingredients, is essential for enhancing the flavor of the rolls.

1.2. "Bê thui" at Cau Mong

Locals in Da Nang also refer to this dish as "bo tai" at Cau Mong. The beef must be cooked to perfection, with two layers of rare and well-cooked meat, transparently tender and crispy. The dipping sauce is made from whole anchovies combined with sugar, garlic, chili, ginger, and roasted sesame seeds. It's usually served with various aromatic herbs and rice paper, similar to pork rice paper rolls.

1.3. Nam O Raw Fish Salad

The fish used in this dish can vary, including ponyfish, ricefield eel, or sardines, but the best choice is mackerel. The distinctive feature of Nam O fish salad lies in its sauce, made from boiled fish broth, mixed with Nam O fish sauce, chili, starch, and sugar. In addition to common vegetables, the salad also contains wild vegetables such as cocculus, pennywort, water lilies, and orchid buds, which are only found in the Hai Van Pass area. Visitors can enjoy the fish with rolled rice paper or simply mix it with vegetables and dipping sauce. Additionally, the steamed raw fish salad is enticing with its fresh and flavorful fish immersed in a spicy and rich broth made from authentic Nam O fish sauce.

1.4. "Banh Xeo" (Sizzling Pancakes) with Grilled Pork Rolls

The best "banh xeo" eateries are concentrated on Hoang Dieu, Trung Nu Vuong, Chau Thi Vinh Te, and Dong Da streets. Prices range from 20,000 to 100,000 VND per serving, depending on the quantity of pancakes and grilled pork rolls. Central Vietnamese "banh xeo" pancakes are typically smaller in size, ensuring a crispier texture and a perfect fit when rolled with rice paper. The accompanying dipping sauce is usually warm soy sauce, just the right flavor to complement the pancakes.

2. Exploring Hoi An Cuisine

2.1. Hoi An Chicken Rice

Bà Thuận's chicken rice is a must-try for chicken lovers. The chicken is rich and fragrant, with the richness coming not from overwhelming fat but from the juicy meat of free-range chickens. Carefully selected and expertly cooked, the chicken rice is served with a bowl of broth made from chicken broth and innards. For those who prefer a lighter taste, Bà Thuận's Hoi An chicken rice might be a bit rich, but it's undeniable that this is one of the best chicken dishes in Hoi An.

2.2. Cao Lau

Many long-time residents of the ancient town claim that cao lau has been in Hoi An since the 17th century. Perhaps that's why this dish bears a strong influence from Chinese cuisine as well as the Japanese cold noodles "udon." However, Hoi An's cao lau still retains its distinctive flavor, unique to Hoi An alone.

2.3. "Banh Bao" (Steamed Dumplings) and "Banh Vac" (White Rose Dumplings)

"Banh bao" and "banh vac" are two types of dumplings with similar ingredients and cooking methods. They are often served together on one plate. The filling for "banh vac" is made from minced land crabs mixed with a little pepper, garlic, shallots, lemongrass, and traditional spices. The filling for "banh bao" is made from pork, wood ear mushrooms, and finely sliced shallots, then stir-fried with traditional spices. Perhaps it's the seasoning that makes "banh bao" and "banh vac" taste the best when eaten in Hoi An.

2.4. Hoi An Steamed Rice Cakes

To make steamed rice cakes, people choose high-quality rice, and the filling is usually shrimp and pork. When customers enter the restaurant, the owner arranges many plates of cakes on a tray, adds the filling, some lard, chili sauce, scallions, and then serves them on the table. Eating steamed rice cakes requires the use of a "dao tre," which is a bamboo stick shaped like a knife. This way of eating adds a sense of curiosity for customers and is a distinctive culinary style that sets steamed rice cakes apart from other delicious dishes in Hoi An.

2.5. Quang Noodle

At first glance, Quang noodle may resemble Cao Lau, but just taste it once, and you'll see that they are completely different dishes. Quang noodle is usually served with shrimp, meat, quail eggs, etc., all soaked in a flavorful sauce. When eating, crispy rice paper and accompanying vegetables are indispensable.

Contact us

Email: hellovietnam@pystravel.com

Whatsapp:

- Mrs. Helen: +84-817062246

- Mr. David: +84-838417121

Facebook fanpage: https://facebook.com/pystravel