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Things To Do In Hoi An Trip: Explore History & Culture With 6 Major Museums

Hoi An, a charming town nestled along the central coast of Vietnam, is a destination steeped in rich history and vibrant culture. For those seeking the best things to do in Hoi An, the exploration of its historical and cultural treasures is an absolute must. Among the many fascinating experiences, visiting the town's famous museums stands out as an important element that you should not miss. These museums will give you a glimpse into the history, culture, and art of Hoi An and its people. Below, we will introduce to you the top 6 museums that you should include in your Hoi An day trip itinerary. Whether you are interested in ceramics, textiles, photography, or folklore, you will find something to suit your taste and curiosity. Let’s explore the places to visit in Hoi An that will make your trip unforgettable.

I. 6 Museums in Hoi An that will amaze you with their history and culture
II. Hoi An’s museums: How to choose the right transportation option for you
III. Travel tips for visiting museums in Hoi An: What to know before you go

I. 6 Museums in Hoi An that will amaze you with their history and culture

1. Sa Huynh Culture Museum - Where history comes alive through artifacts and anecdote

Address : No. 149 Tran Phu Street, Cam Pho Ward, Hoi An City
Opening hours : from 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM all days (except the 10th day of every month for repairs)
Ticket price : Include other attractions in Hoi An
Domestic tourists : 80,000 VND (3.40 USD)/person
Foreign tourists : 150,000 VND (6.38 USD)/person
Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/BgXPtKpDiT7nkFCJ8

For those seeking the best things to do in Hoi An, a visit to the Sa Huynh Culture Museum is an indispensable chapter in the exploration of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Nestled within the charming town, the Sa Huynh Culture Museum stands as a time capsule, unveiling the mysteries of the Sa Huynh civilization that once thrived in this historical corner of Vietnam. For travelers crafting their Hoi An day trip itinerary, a visit to this museum is more than just a simple collection of relics; it serves as a cultural bridge connecting the past and present.

This museum was established in 1994 and displays a variety of unique artifacts belonging to the Sa Huynh culture, which dates back more than 2000 years ago. The Sa Huynh people were the original inhabitants of the pre-port town of Hoi An and had trade relations with other regions in Southeast Asia, South India, and China.

A series of past traces of 2,000 years of ancient urban culture are displayed

Visit Sa Huynh Culture Museum transcends the conventional museum experience, the museum exhibits showcase the intricate artifacts of the Sa Huynh people, nearly 950 artifacts that were excavated through surveys and archaeological excavations at sites such as An Bang, Hau Xa, Thanh Chiem, Xuan Lam from 1989 to 1994.

What sets the Sa Huynh Culture Museum apart is that each artifact, whether it be pottery, bronze, iron, glass, tools, jewelry, wood, horn or bone, weaves a narrative that breathes life into the ancient civilization, offering a rare glimpse into the Sa Huynh people's daily lives, culture, art, religion, burial customs, and trade practices. The museum expertly balances the preservation of historical relics with a dynamic presentation, creating an atmosphere where history is not just observed but experienced.

Some other artifacts about the life of ancient Hoi An people in the museum

The museum also has some artifacts found at the Bai Ong - Cu Lao Cham site that prove the existence of the local people from prehistoric times, more than 3000 years ago.

2. Museum of Trade Ceramics - Where the precious and unique artifacts of Hoi An ceramics are displayed

Address : No. 80 Tran Phu Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam
Opening hours : from 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM all days (except the 15th day of every month for repairs)
Ticket price : Include other attractions in Hoi An
Domestic tourists : 80,000 VND (3.40 USD)/person
Foreign tourists : 120,000 VND (5.10 USD)/person
Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/wiY9aTNgj2VL3XLy5

Best thing to do in Hoi An - Visit Museum of Trade Ceramics

The Museum of Trade Ceramics is a hidden gem that encapsulates the town's rich cultural tapestry. Renowned as a standout attraction among Hoi An's museums and places to visit, this ceramic art archive is one of the most interesting and informative museums for foreign visitors looking to explore the heritage of this old town.

The Museum of Trade Ceramics stands as a testament to Hoi An's illustrious ceramic heritage. The museum is housed in a 2-story wooden structure that dates back to the 1920s. The house is of Japanese origin and design, and was once used as a meeting and trading place with foreign countries such as China, India, Japan, the Philippines, and Thailand.

Inside the museum, the brilliant history of ancient ceramics is revealed

Home to an exquisite collection of pottery dating back centuries, the museum intricately weaves together the threads of art, culture, and history. The museum displays more than 300 ceramic artifacts that were found in various archaeological sites in Hoi An, dating from the 7th to the 19th centuries. The oldest artifacts even date back to 2,000 years ago. Each artifact on display tells a story, a narrative that unfolds the evolution of Hoi An's pottery craftsmanship and its integral role in trade and cultural exchange.

Tourists experience unique artistic and cultural activities

What sets the Museum of Trade Ceramics apart is its celebration of artistic elegance. The museum has a simple but impressive interior, with maps, paintings, charts, signs, and a range of meticulously crafted ceramics, from delicate vases to ornate plates, each bearing the mark of skilled artisans. Visitors are invited not only to witness the beauty of these artifacts but also to understand the techniques and traditions that have been passed down through generations.

3. The Museum of Folk Culture - Explore the beauty and creativity of Hoi An's diverse folk culture

Address : No. 33 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Opening hours : from 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM all days (except the 20th day of every month)
Ticket price : Include other attractions in Hoi An
Domestic tourists : 80,000 VND (3.40 USD)/person
Foreign tourists : 150,000 VND (6.38 USD)/person
Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/roDP95xs1R76gytC8

The Museum of Folk Culture - a must visit on your day trip itinerary

If you are looking for a Hoi An day trip itinerary that includes culture, history and art, you should not miss the Museum of Folk Culture. This museum is one of the most distinctive thematic museums, showcasing the rich cultural heritage, creativity and contributions of the local generations in the development of Hoi An.

Opening its doors to visitors in 2005, this museum is the biggest museum in Hoi An. The museum vividly displays 483 artifacts with four main themes: folk visual art, folk performing art, traditional crafts villages and folk life through different periods, presented in a 57-meter-long and 9-meter-wide building.

Decorative lanterns inside the museum of Folk Culture, Hoi An's wonderful museum

The 2nd floor also exhibits items about local theater arts, costumes, festivals, and some products of traditional crafts in Hoi An such as lanterns, silk, paper paintings, mats, etc. The museum also preserves more than 346 artifacts in the warehouse, which are collections of costumes of Chinese and Vietnamese people, collections of tools, equipment and products of traditional crafts.

In addition to the fascinating exhibits, the museum also offers live demonstrations of some of the ancient art forms, such as the Thien Cau dance and Bai Choi singing. These are unique and colorful expressions of the culture and spirit of Hoi An, reflecting the beliefs and values of the people from the past. By watching and listening to these performances, you can immerse yourselves in the authentic and original atmosphere of Hoi An, and appreciate the richness and diversity of its intangible cultural heritage.

Exploring the Folk Culture Museum is one of the best things to do in Hoi An if you want to learn more about the unique and diverse aspects of Hoi An culture. You will be amazed by the skill and talent of the folk artists, the beauty and variety of the folk costumes, the charm and vitality of the folk performances, and the richness and diversity of the folk life.

4. Hoi An Museum - Historical entrance gate recreating the bustling international trading port city

Address : No. 10B Tran Hung Dao Street, Son Phong Ward, Hoi An City
Opening hours : from 7:30 AM – 5:00 PM (closed every Saturday and Sunday)
Ticket price : Include other attractions in Hoi An
Domestic tourists : 80,000 VND (3.40 USD)/person
Foreign tourists : 120,000 VND (5.10 USD)/person
Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/xxfPrT7gnA6kSEmm7

Hoi An Museum (museum History and Culture of Hoi An)

The Hoi An Museum (museum of History and Culture of Hoi An) is not only a famous tourist destination, but also a place that preserves and witnesses the development and survival of Hoi An through all stages. If you are looking for places to visit in Hoi An, you should not miss this museum. Immerse yourself in the flow of history to fully experience Hoi An.

The museum is located at 10B Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An, with an area of about 800 m2, and was established on November 10, 1989. Currently, the museum is displaying hundreds of artifacts, including original artifacts and photographic documents.

The Hoi An museum is the place to store and witness the steps of development of the people, culture and history of Hoi An ancient town from the early days, when it was still a prosperous port, to the present day - a famous town with ancient architecture, full of highlights.

The museum has three floors, each displaying different themes related to the history and culture of Hoi An, such as the revolutionary tradition, the struggle for liberation and construction, and the paintings of Hoi An. Each artifact and image is fully explained and presented to help visitors understand the whole story of Hoi An.

5. Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum - A decade-long project by Réhahn, a unique and free experience

Address : No. 26 Phan Boi Chau Street, Cam Chau Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam, Vietnam
Opening hours : from 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM all days
Ticket price : Free
Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/DKCsFcZPzi635zEv7

As you explore the cobblestone streets and ancient architecture of Hoi An, the Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum, which appears as a hidden gem on the list of best places to visit in Hoi An, is a testament to the rich tapestry of Vietnamese culture and history.

Entering this unique museum is a cultural treasure that shows the diversity and richness of Vietnam's ethnic groups. The Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum, founded by renowned French photographer Réhahn, is a captivating journey through the diverse ethnic groups. The museum displays stunning portraits, traditional costumes, stories and educational activities that will take you on a journey through the country's history and culture.

The museum is located in a 19th-century French house in the heart of Hoi An Old Town. You can explore five rooms, covering more than 500 square meters, that present hundreds of photographs of Vietnam, including the formal portrait series of each of the 54 ethnic groups in their tribal garments.

From the vibrant textiles of the H'mong people to the intricate woodwork of the Cham community, the museum seamlessly weaves together the threads of Vietnam's cultural mosaic. You can also learn about the indigo dyeing process, the textile techniques, and the handicrafts of some of the ethnic groups.

One of the most popular tourist-attracting museums in Hoi An

The museum is free to the public and is a labor of love and respect by Réhahn, who spent nearly a decade traveling and documenting the ethnic groups of Vietnam. The Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone who wants to discover the beauty and enchantment of Vietnam's heritage. It is a perfect destination for a Hoi An day trip itinerary that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

6. Museum of Traditional Medicine: An interesting destination for those who love traditional medicine

Address : No. 46 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City
Opening hours : from 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM all days
Ticket price : Include other attractions in Hoi An
Domestic tourists : 80,000 VND (3.40 USD)/person
Foreign tourists : 150,000 VND (6.38 USD)/person
Google Map : https://maps.app.goo.gl/MgK1JzGVpJoUS9wSA

The Museum of Traditional Medicine in Hoi An is a fascinating place to learn about the history and practice of traditional medicine in Vietnam. This unique establishment is a treasure trove of ancient healing practices and traditional medical wisdom.

The museum is located in an old house with the typical architecture of Hoi An ancient town. It displays more than 200 artifacts and documents related to traditional medicine in general and medicine in Hoi An in particular, including various types of herbs, tools, books, maps, records, photos....

The museum also recreates the space of a traditional Chinese medicine shop, where patients were diagnosed and treated; the courtyard, where herbs were dried and preserved; the scene of preparing some kinds of medicine; and the information room.

A place to display medicine from herbal plants

If you are interested in traditional medicine, the Museum of Traditional Medicine in Hoi An is a must-see destination. You will discover the secrets and wisdom of the ancient healers and doctors who contributed to the medical heritage of Hoi An and Vietnam.

II. Hoi An’s museums: How to choose the right transportation option for you

When exploring the best things to do in Hoi An, a visit to its rich array of museums is a must for any foreign traveler, as they offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture of this ancient town. You can choose from 6 major museums above. Crafting the perfect Hoi An day trip itinerary involves not only selecting the most intriguing museums, but also choosing the right transportation option to get there efficiently.

Traveling by bike in Hoi An ancient town

Depending on where you stay, when deciding on the best way to reach the Hoi An's museums, you'll encounter multiple transportation options, each with its own unique charm. If you are close to the old town, you can walk to the museums, as they are not far from each other. Walking is also the best way to explore the atmosphere and architecture of Hoi An. For those seeking a leisurely and immersive experience, bicycles are a popular choice. For only around 20,000 – 40,000 VND (1 - 2 USD) per day, they not only provide an eco-friendly means of transportation but also allow visitors to absorb the local atmosphere as they pedal through the charming streets of Hoi An.

If you are further away, you can rent a motorbike, or a motorbike taxi to get to the museums. The rental fee for a motorbike is about 100,000 - 150,000 VND (4 - 6 USD) per day, and for a motorbike taxi, it is about 10,000 - 20,000 VND (0,5 - 1 USD) per km.

Alternatively, if you prefer a more convenient and time-efficient option, taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available. While they may come at a slightly higher cost, the comfort and speed they offer can be valuable, especially if you have a tight Hoi An day trip. The taxi fare is about 15,000 - 20,000 VND (0,7 - 1 USD) per km.

Local buses are another budget-friendly alternative, providing an authentic experience while connecting you to the heart of Hoi An. It's advisable to check the schedules and routes in advance to ensure a smooth journey.

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III. Travel tips for visiting museums in Hoi An: What to know before you go

Travel tips for Hoi An day trip itinerary visit museums

Museum tickets: Hoi An’s museums are part of the Ancient Town heritage site, and you need to buy a combo ticket to visit them. The ticket costs 120,000 VND and allows you to visit four out of 21 attractions in the Ancient Town, including five museums. The ticket is valid for one day only. Take note of the ticket prices, and consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid long queues.

Opening hours: Check the opening hours of the museums to ensure you have enough time to explore. Most museums in Hoi An are open from 7:00 am to 9:00 pm daily, except on the 15th day of every lunar month, when they close at 5:00 pm for the lantern festival.

Dress code: There is no strict dress code for visiting museums in Hoi An, but it is advisable to dress modestly and respectfully, especially if you visit any religious sites. Avoid wearing shorts, skirts, or tops that expose too much skin. Always adhere to rules and guidelines while visiting to preserve historical and cultural sites.

Guided Tours: Consider hiring a guide for more detailed information and insights into the history and art within the museums.

Translation and signage information: Ensure you understand information on signs and exhibits, or bring a translation app to enhance your understanding during the visit.

Photography: Some museums have specific rules regarding the use of cameras. You are allowed to take photos inside the museums, but flash photography is prohibited. Be respectful of the exhibits and do not touch or damage them.

In conclusion, visiting museums in Hoi An is one of the best things to do, as they offer a glimpse into the rich history and culture in the past and present of this ancient town. Hoi An's museums serve as captivating portals to the past, offering you a profound understanding of the city's heritage. As you embark on your Hoi An day trip itinerary, these museums promise to be not only informative, but also enjoyable and interactive, with exhibits, activities, and workshops that will appeal to all ages and interests. We believe you will have a wonderful journey and many memorable experiences. For a satisfying experience that exceeds your expectations, please CONTACT AUTOUR ASIA, Vietnam Travel Agency.

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