Old House of Tan Ky

Hoi An

Copyright: Robert Lafond/Flickr
DESTINATIONS vietnam hoian Do & See Old House of Tan Ky

Old House of Tan Ky

Seven generations saw to the Tan Ky house remaining in the excellent condition it welcomes visitors in today, as it continues to stand as an excellent example of the confluence of cultural influences that define Hoi An. This 18th century merchant home combines elements of Chinese and Japanese design, and even features elements of European influence (such as the grape leaves carved into the courtyard balcony). The house comes furbished with original period pieces and contains a small gift shop; there is an open courtyard at its centre which brings in light and air, creating an organic link to nature and preventing the structure from flooding (although this isn't a remedy in extremely high water).

Do & See

Apart from old merchant homes and assembly halls of various Chinese congregations that are some of the Ancient Town's highlights, Hoi An enjoys a fortunate location within a short distance from the beach, and even has a small island archipelago to its name: the laid-back Cham Islands are only a short ferry ride away, and are a great place for a relaxed getaway from the tourist masses. Cycling tours of the surrounding rice fields and Vietnamese cooking classes are some of the most popular activities in Hoi An, and the former French colonial port of Da Nang is an easy day trip from here (so are the Ba Na Hills with their stunning Golden Bridge held up by two enormous sculpted hands).