The
ancient town of Hoi An, 30 km south of Danang,
lies on the banks of the Thu Bon River. Occupied
by early western traders, Hoi An was one of
the major trading centers of Southeast Asia
in the 16th century.
Hoi
An has a distinct Chinese atmosphere with low,
tile-roofed houses and narrow streets; the original
structure of some of these streets still remains
almost intact. All the houses were made of rare
wood, decorated with lacquered boards and panels
engraved with Chinese characters. Pillars were
also carved with ornamental designs.
