Hoi An: My Son Sanctuary, Rice Paper, Boat Trip & Lunch

Hoi An’s cultural tapestry unfolds through this immersive tour. Travelers will explore the ancient Hindu temples of My Son Sanctuary, gain insights into traditional rice paper making, and cruise along the scenic Thu Bon River. With a delectable Vietnamese lunch in between, this experience promises to leave a lasting impression. Whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or simply seeking to explore Vietnam’s rich heritage, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the heart of Hoi An.

Key Points

• Comprehensive guided tour of the ancient Hindu temples at the My Son Sanctuary, providing insights into Champa culture.
• Hands-on experience in traditional rice paper making at a local family home.
• Relaxing boat trip along the Thu Bon River, offering scenic views of the riverbanks and local life.
• Lunch at a local restaurant featuring a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including vegetarian and vegan options.
• Pickup and drop-off service available from Hoi An or Da Nang, with an additional charge for Da Nang pickups.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers a comprehensive experience, providing visitors with a guided exploration of the renowned My Son Sanctuary, a chance to witness traditional rice paper making, and a relaxing boat trip along the Thu Bon River.

Priced from $20.25 per person, the 6-hour tour is limited to 14 participants and led by an English-speaking guide.

Travelers can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, lunch, and all necessary entry fees, promising an engaging and immersive day exploring Hoi An’s cultural treasures.

Pickup and Meeting Point

The tour begins with pickup from either Hoi An or Da Nang, depending on the traveler’s location.

Those in Hoi An will be picked up between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM.

Travelers in Hoi An will be picked up between 7:30 AM and 8:00 AM.

Travelers in Da Nang will need to pay an additional 300,000 VND each way for 4 or 7-seater cars, with pickup between 6:30 AM and 7:00 AM.

All participants meet at 143 Ly Thai To, Hoi An at 7:30 AM.

From there, the group departs for the first stop at My Son Sanctuary, arriving around 8:45 AM to begin the guided exploration.

My Son Sanctuary Exploration

After arriving at My Son Sanctuary around 8:45 AM, the tour group embarks on a guided exploration of the ancient Hindu temples.

The knowledgeable guide provides cultural insights, sharing the history and significance of the Champa ruins.

The group wanders through the archaeological site, taking in the following:

1. Towering stone structures adorned with intricate carvings and bas-reliefs.

2. Partially collapsed temples reclaimed by the lush jungle vegetation.

3. Sacred altars and ritual platforms where Champa ceremonies were once performed.

4. A Champa cultural performance showcasing traditional music and dance.

The tour offers an immersive look into the architectural and religious heritage of the Champa kingdom.

Lunch

After the guided exploration of the My Son Sanctuary, the group heads to a local restaurant around 11:40 AM for lunch.

The menu offers a variety of Vietnamese dishes, including noodles, spring rolls, and rice dumplings. Vegetarian and vegan options are also available.

The meal provides a chance to refuel and sample authentic local cuisine before continuing the tour. Bottled water and tea are included.

This lunch stop allows the travelers to rest, refuel, and prepare for the next activity – learning how to make traditional rice paper at a nearby family home.

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Rice Paper Making

Following the hearty lunch, the group makes their way to a local family home to learn the traditional art of rice paper making.

The host demonstrates the process step-by-step:

1. Soaking the rice flour in water until it forms a smooth batter.

2. Pouring the batter onto a hot, flat griddle and spreading it thinly.

3. Carefully peeling the delicate rice paper off the griddle.

4. Drying the sheets in the sun before expertly rolling them up.

Participants eagerly try their hand at making the regional specialty, gaining newfound appreciation for this time-honored craft.

Boat Trip

The group then boards a traditional wooden boat and sets off on a leisurely cruise along the Thu Bon River.

They glide past lush riverbanks, observing local life along the water’s edge. The boat gently meanders, offering a serene perspective of Hoi An’s countryside.

Passengers can admire the picturesque landscape and take in the tranquil atmosphere. The boat trip provides a relaxing end to the day’s activities, allowing travelers to unwind and reflect on the cultural experiences from earlier in the tour.

This gentle boat ride completes the immersive journey through Hoi An’s natural and cultural treasures.

Return to Hoi An

As the boat glides back to Hoi An, the tour group is transported to the charming town they departed earlier.

The leisurely river cruise offers a peaceful transition back to the historic center.

Upon reaching the dock, the group disembarks and is met by their air-conditioned vehicle.

The drive back to the hotel is smooth, allowing travelers to:

1. Reflect on the cultural insights they gained at My Son Sanctuary.

2. Admire the bustling streets of Hoi An with its colorful lanterns and French colonial architecture.

3. Savor the flavors of the authentic Vietnamese lunch they just enjoyed.

4. Look forward to exploring more of Hoi An’s charm on their own time.

Customer Reviews

Travelers who’ve experienced the tour overwhelmingly praise the knowledgeable and passionate guides who lead it.

With an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on over 1,000 reviews, customers highlight the tour’s engaging cultural experiences, including the rice paper making demonstration and boat trip on the Thu Bon River.

Boasting a 4.8/5 rating from over 1,000 reviews, the tour features captivating cultural highlights like rice paper making and a Thu Bon River boat trip.

Many recommend the tour for its excellent value and diverse itinerary that covers the highlights of Hoi An.

The My Son Sanctuary exploration, with insights into the Champa civilization, is a particular standout for most visitors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Restrictions on Luggage or Items Allowed?

The tour doesn’t have any specific restrictions on luggage or items, but it’s advisable to pack light and bring only essentials like sunscreen, camera, and comfortable walking shoes. Participants should avoid bringing large or bulky items.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There’s no strict dress code, but comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing is recommended. Closed-toe shoes are advised for walking at the My Son Sanctuary site. The tour involves some walking, so casual, practical attire is best.

Are There Any Health/Medical Requirements to Participate?

There are no specific health or medical requirements to participate in this tour. Participants should be able to walk moderate distances and board a boat. Those with mobility concerns can discuss options with the tour provider.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Needs?

The tour can be customized for individual needs. Travelers should contact the tour operator to discuss any specific requirements or accommodations they may need. The tour provider aims to ensure all participants have an enjoyable and accessible experience.

Is There an Option to Extend or Modify the Tour Duration?

The tour duration can’t be extended, but modifications may be possible if requested in advance. Travelers should check with the tour provider about any customization options to suit their needs.

The Sum Up

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An on this guided tour. Explore the ancient Hindu temples at My Son Sanctuary, try your hand at making rice paper, and enjoy a scenic boat trip along the Thu Bon River. This immersive experience provides a well-rounded introduction to the region’s history, traditions, and natural beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here: