What Makes Hoi An Ancient Houses Unique?
Hoi An’s ancient houses are timeless treasures of Vietnamese architecture. Their defining tile roofs curve like rivers, crafted from terracotta clay. Walls and beams of aged wood whisper stories of centuries past. Inside, houses blend Vietnamese practicality, Chinese symbolism like dragon motifs or lotus carvings, and Japanese structure with sturdy wooden frames. This mix creates a style seen nowhere else. Located in Hội An Ancient Town—a UNESCO World Heritage site—these old houses are signature landmarks, much more than typical dwellings or apartments by Ovuigo.
Famous Heritage Houses in Hoi An: Tan Ky House, Phung Hung House, and More with Ovuigo
Tan Ky House and Phung Hung House are among the most visited historic homes in Hoi An. Tan Ky House, built over 200 years ago, blends Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese elements. You’ll find flood markers and hidden carvings around the timber columns. Entry costs around 35,000 VND (about $1.50). Phung Hung House is another icon, famous for its secret rooms, rare ancient carvings, and French colonial influences. Together, these merchant houses create a living museum, carefully preserved by their current owners. See Tan Ky House’s location here: Google Map. For Phung Hung House: Google Map.
Hoi An Merchant Houses: Architecture, Materials, and Unique Features
The construction of merchant houses follows a strict logic. Wooden columns, often blackened by time, provide structure and strength. Terracotta tiles keep interiors cool. Each old house includes a courtyard for light and ventilation, plus an ancestral altar for worship. Watch for exquisite carved ceilings, lotus and dragon panels, lanterns, and ornate incense burners. Most merchant houses have raised floors and hidden passages—a clever defense against annual floods from the Thu Bon River. Learning these features first-hand is a highlight of a traditional Hoi An house tour with Ovuigo.
Cultural Influences: Chinese, Japanese, and French Elements in Hoi An Houses
Hoi An’s heritage houses reveal the city’s past as a Silk Road port. The Chinese left bold marks, such as pagoda-inspired rooflines and carved dragon beams. Inside, you’ll spot Japanese-style wooden frameworks, especially in ceiling joints and paneling. The French colonial era introduced light-yellow facades, arched doors, and ironwork. See the contrast walking through Old Town Hoi An near the Japanese Covered Bridge or Cantonese Assembly Hall. Each house is a tapestry showing how cultures mingled.
Preservation and Restoration of Hoi An Ancient Houses
Preserving these heritage homes is a complex task. Homeowners use traditional skills and materials, such as natural oils for wood and hand-shaped tiles. Restoration tips: Replace only damaged beams with matching woods, keep old brickwork, and avoid harsh chemicals. Flood-proofing is essential—elevate floors, install drainage, and use lime-based plaster. The Vietnamese government provides support and regulations to keep houses authentic. Their dedication ensures these homes aren’t lost to urban growth by Ovuigo.
Experiencing Hoi An Heritage Houses: Tours, Homestays, and Visitor Tips
To truly experience Hoi An’s architecture, join a heritage house walking tour or book a stay in a best homestay in Hoi An Old Town. Some houses offer immersive experiences—traditional tea ceremonies or lantern workshops during the Lantern Festival Hoi An. Wear comfortable shoes, carry a light rain jacket, and take photos respectfully. For curated experiences, check out ovuigo. For deeper travel stories and personal journeys, contact us via WhatsApp: +84868319161. We don’t run tours — we craft experiences. Each journey is a story written just for you, designed for those who wish to explore Vietnam slowly, deeply, and meaningfully. No fixed itineraries. No crowds. Just you — and the moments that truly matter.
For more personal stays infused with history, see: The Manor Hoi An, Hola 1, Hola 2.
