Hoi An, Vietnam Recognised As Asia’s Most Beautiful Historical Town For Tourism In 2025: All You Need To Know

Hoi An, an ancient Town in Vietnam has just been named Asia’s Most Beautiful Historical Town. Awarded for its stunning sixteenth-century architecture, colorful lantern-lit streets, and blend of Asian and European cultures, Hoi An keeps enchanting visitors from every corner of the world.

The Ranking Criteria

In early September 2025, Tourlane, a respected travel platform known for its personalised travel services, revealed its ranking of the most beautiful historical cities in Asia. The criteria for the ranking were based on four key elements: pedestrian-friendly areas, historical origin, affordability, and the town’s popularity on social media platforms.

Hoi An secured the top spot largely due to its well-preserved historical architecture, which remains untouched by modernisation. The city offers affordable entrance fees and a relaxed, walkable environment, making it highly accessible for tourists. Its popularity on social media platforms also reflects the beauty and charm that continue to captivate visitors.

The Historical Charm of Hoi An

Situated on the coast of Vietnam, near Da Nang City, Hoi An has a long and storied history. Known by various names throughout its existence, including Lam Ap, Faifo, and Hoai Pho, Hoi An has been a crossroads of cultures for centuries. The town is often regarded as one of Southeast Asia’s best-preserved ancient towns, featuring nearly 1,360 architectural relics. These include ancient streets, houses, assembly halls, pagodas, shrines, family temples, and even traditional wells, each reflecting the historical blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences.

What sets Hoi An apart is the way its history is still alive in its everyday life. The preservation of traditional Vietnamese customs, rituals, and culinary practices adds to its allure. Visitors can also witness artisans in action, from woodcarvers to pottery makers, in the local craft villages on the outskirts of the town. This connection to the past offers a rare opportunity to step back in time and immerse oneself in Vietnam’s rich heritage.

UNESCO World Heritage Status

In 1999, Hoi An was officially recognized as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage Site during the 23rd session in Marrakech, Morocco. This status has further solidified the town’s place as a must-visit destination in Vietnam. The recognition was based on Hoi An’s exceptional preservation of architectural and cultural heritage, which gives tourists a unique glimpse into the ancient, diverse culture that once thrived in this port town.

This international recognition has helped Hoi An emerge as one of Vietnam’s leading tourist destinations, attracting both cultural tourists and those looking for a serene escape in a historical setting.

The Future of Tourism in Hoi An

Hoi An’s status as a historical gem is no longer a hidden secret. As a growing number of travellers seek more meaningful and culturally enriching experiences, the ancient town offers an authentic destination where past and present beautifully coexist. The town’s well-preserved historical sites, coupled with its picturesque setting along the Thu Bon River, create the perfect backdrop for a memorable vacation.

The popularity of Hoi An continues to grow as tourists share their experiences on social media platforms, attracting new visitors each year. In order to accommodate this influx, local tourism authorities are focusing on sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that the town’s rich heritage remains intact while offering modern amenities to visitors. As Hoi An gains more international recognition, the challenge remains to balance development with preservation.

Key Tourist Destinations in Hoi An

Hoi An is more than just its historical architecture; it is a destination with diverse attractions that appeal to various types of travellers. Here are some key places that should not be missed:

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Stroll through the winding streets, marvel at the centuries-old buildings, and witness the vibrant lantern displays that light up the town at night.
• Japanese Covered Bridge: One of the most iconic landmarks of Hoi An, this bridge is an excellent example of the fusion of Japanese and Vietnamese architecture.
• Assembly Halls: Explore the ornate Chinese Assembly Halls, such as the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, which was used for community and trade purposes by Chinese immigrants.
• Chùa Cầu (Japanese Bridge): A beautifully preserved structure that represents the harmonious blend of cultures that have shaped Hoi An over the centuries.
• Hoi An Museum of History and Culture: Discover the town’s history through exhibits that cover its transformation from a trading port to a cultural hub.
• An Bang Beach: For those looking to unwind, this serene beach offers clear waters and a peaceful retreat, just a short distance from the town centre.
• Traditional Craft Villages: Visit the pottery and woodcarving villages outside Hoi An to see artisans create their crafts using traditional methods passed down through generations.

Sustainable Tourism and the Future

Looking ahead, Hoi An is positioning itself as a leader in sustainable tourism. The focus is on providing visitors with authentic cultural experiences while ensuring that local traditions, the environment, and community well-being are preserved. As tourism continues to grow, authorities are committed to creating a balanced approach that supports both the local economy and the protection of the town’s cultural heritage.

For travellers, this means more opportunities to enjoy a destination that is not only beautiful but also committed to maintaining its unique character for future generations. With its blend of historical allure, natural beauty, and growing commitment to sustainability, Hoi An is set to continue attracting visitors from across the globe.

Final Thoughts

Hoi An truly earns its title as Asia’s Most Beautiful Historical Town. Its colorful past, dreamy old buildings, and calm vibe make it a must-visit. Every year, more travelers arrive, so the balance gets tricky: how to keep the old charm while adding the comforts today’s travelers expect. The solution lies in smart, eco-friendly tourism that respects the stories and structures that make the town special. As Hoi An sticks to its plan, the road ahead in the tourism scene should stay very promising.