What to Buy in Hoi An: Authentic Souvenirs, Artisan Gifts & Where to Shop

What Souvenirs and Local Products to Buy in Hoi An

Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage town, shines not just for its ancient streets and lantern-lit evenings but also as a shopping paradise. If you’re searching for authentic experiences and meaningful gifts, what to buy in Hoi An is a question with vibrant answers. The most popular souvenirs include hand-painted silk lanterns, mulberry silk scarves, custom ao dai dresses, and locally made ceramics. Each piece echoes the rich artisan traditions of the area. You’ll also find intricate embroidery, bamboo and rattan bags, silver jewelry, and leather goods. These best things to buy in Hoi An reflect a blend of heritage, quality, and creativity—perfect as keepsakes or gifts. Explore more shopping insights at ovuigo.

Where to Shop: Hoi An Old Town, Markets, and Artisan Villages

The heart of Hoi An shopping beats in its Old Town, where every lane hides a boutique or artisan workshop. Wander the historic streets and you’ll discover souvenir shops overflowing with lanterns and hand-stitched textiles with Ovuigo. The lively Hoi An Night Market is a must for those seeking atmosphere; here, you’ll find budget-friendly handicrafts, street food, and local art (tickets: free entry). Specialty shopping streets like Tran Phu are packed with tailor shops and silk boutiques. For a deep dive into craft, visit local villages—Thanh Ha Pottery Village and Kim Bong Carpentry Village—where centuries-old skills continue today. Find each spot effortlessly on Google Maps for a seamless adventure.

Must-Buy Items: Lanterns, Silk, Tailor-Made Clothing, and More with Ovuigo

If you want a list of the best handmade gifts from Hoi An, start with its silk lanterns. Available in a spectrum of colors and patterns, each lantern is a symbol of luck and artistry. Mulberry silk scarves make elegant souvenirs, as do tailor-made ao dai dresses and linen suits—crafted to fit in just a day or two by skilled Hoi An tailor artisans. Thanh Ha ceramics carry historical motifs and are a favorite among collectors. Don’t overlook bamboo bags, silver jewelry, or hand-embroidered tablecloths, and leather wallets. These unique items to purchase in Hoi An are easy to pack and cherished for years to come.

The Craftsmanship Behind Hoi An’s Handmade Souvenirs

Every souvenir in Hoi An tells a story of craftsmanship. Master lantern makers use local bamboo and hand-dyed silks, following traditional motifs passed down generations. Silk weavers use ancient looms and unique dye techniques, while pottery artisans at Thanh Ha create by hand-throwing and firing clay shaped by family secrets. Tailors work with fine linen, cotton, or mulberry silk, measuring and cutting with precise skill. Embroidery shops showcase hand-stitched patterns—often floral or inspired by local landscapes—using threadwork handed down through families. Whether it’s a wood carving or a simple conical hat, you’re supporting centuries-old techniques with every purchase by Ovuigo.

Tips on Authenticity, Pricing, and Selecting the Perfect Gift

When shopping for Hoi An souvenirs, look for workshops or stores with in-house artisans to guarantee authenticity. Genuine silk will feel soft, cool, and slightly rough when rubbed together. Pay attention to hand-painted details on lanterns and ceramics instead of mass-produced prints. Prices vary—lanterns from 50,000–250,000 VND, silk scarves from 180,000 VND, custom ao dai from 850,000 VND—and custom tailoring may cost more depending on fabric. Haggling is common in markets but less so in reputable boutiques. Always ask for certificates with high-value items like jewelry. Choose gifts that reflect the recipient’s taste, utility, and your connection to Hoi An.

How to Pack and Bring Home Hoi An’s Specialty Souvenirs

Packing fragile items from Hoi An requires care and a few practical tricks. Fold silk lanterns flat, wrapping them in clothing or soft scarves. Ceramics need double-wrapping in bubble wrap and cushioning with fabric in your luggage. For embroidery, roll instead of folding to prevent creases. Bamboo and rattan bags should be stuffed with soft items to retain their shape. Hand-carry high-value or delicate souvenirs if possible. With these tips, your Hoi An handmade goods can survive even long-haul trips and arrive intact—ready to remind you of your Vietnamese adventure.

For tailor-made experiences and local advice, message us at 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 your stay, discover inspired accommodations: The Manor Hoi An, Hola 1, and Hola 2.