Photos of Hoi An in Vietnam – Golden Facades and Peaceful Lifestyle
Dreaming of photographing old yellow houses bathed in warm light, wandering among streets lined with lanterns, and discovering the Vietnamese art of living? Hoi An, a UNESCO-listed city, offers a poetic and sensory journey not to be missed.
Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Hoi An captivates with its golden houses, well-preserved Japanese district, and cuisine rich in diverse influences.
Located on the central coast of Vietnam, just a few kilometers from Da Nang, the town of Hoi An is a treasure of architecture and history. Once a thriving port between the 15th and 19th centuries, it has retained a remarkably well-preserved historic center where Chinese, Japanese, and French influences blend harmoniously in a peaceful atmosphere.
The Japanese District and Ancient Houses
The heart of the old town is made up of pedestrian streets lined with wooden merchant houses, usually one or two stories high. Many are painted in the ochre yellow that has become Hoi An’s signature color. Some facades still bear visible seasonal flood marks, with inscriptions carved high in the wood.
The iconic covered Japanese bridge, built in the 17th century, marks the boundary between the former Japanese and Chinese quarters. It is one of the few inhabited bridges in the world, featuring a small sanctuary at its center. Both historically significant and highly photogenic, it’s a must-see location in the city.
A City to Slow Down and Enjoy
Despite its popularity with tourists, Hoi An maintains a relaxed rhythm. It’s worth spending several days here—strolling through alleyways, biking into the countryside, or exploring nearby rice fields and beaches.
Each evening, thousands of lanterns light up the streets, creating a magical atmosphere perfect for nighttime walks and mood photography. The golden hour, whether at dawn or dusk, enhances the textures and colors of the buildings while softening street scenes.
A Culinary Address Not to Miss
Among the many local eateries and tourist restaurants, one place stands out for its refinement and authenticity: Madame Hien Hoi An, located at 02 Nguyễn Thái Học, in the Japanese district near the market. Run by French chef Didier Corlou and now gradually taken over by his son, this elegant yet unpretentious restaurant offers a culinary experience that perfectly complements your visit to Hoi An.
Their dishes combine local Vietnamese ingredients and family traditions with French culinary techniques, offering a delicious cultural fusion on your plate.
Hoi An – Where History Meets Lifestyle
Hoi An is one of those cities that invites return visits—thanks to its atmosphere and its many photographic opportunities. It contrasts nicely with more historical stops like Hue or more natural settings like the terrestrial Ha Long Bay.
It fits seamlessly into a journey through central Vietnam, and can easily be followed by a trip to Saigon or the Mekong Delta in the south, or heading back north toward Hanoi and Ha Long Bay.
For those passionate about photography, history, and cuisine, Hoi An is an essential stop in Vietnam—best enjoyed at your own pace.
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All the photos displayed on this website are copyright protected © Sebastien Desnoulez. No use allowed without written authorization.
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About the photographer: Sebastien Desnoulez is a French travel and architecture photographer. He captures poetic and contrasting atmospheres from Vietnam to Europe, always guided by light, structure, and human presence.
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