How long does it take to walk the Thu Bon River route?

The full route takes approximately 60 to 90 minutes. This includes time to stop at the Japanese Bridge, view the sculptures, and enjoy the atmosphere of the fish market and waterfront.

Is the Japanese Bridge free to visit?

While you can view the exterior of the bridge for free, walking across it or entering the small temple inside usually requires a Hoi An Ancient Town sightseeing ticket. These tickets are sold at various kiosks around the perimeter of the historic district.

When is the best time to see the lanterns in Hoi An?

The lanterns are best viewed just after sunset, typically between 6:00 PM and 9:00 PM. During this time, the river comes alive with colorful lights and traditional boats, creating a magical atmosphere.

Can I do this walk in the morning?

Yes, a morning walk is highly recommended for those who want to see the local life and fish market activity. The temperature is cooler, and the streets are significantly less crowded than in the evening.

Is the route suitable for seniors?

Yes, the route is mostly flat and easy to navigate. There are plenty of cafes along the way to sit and rest, though care should be taken with the uneven steps at the Japanese Bridge.

Where can I find the best views of the river?

The Cẩm Kim Bridge offers a high-angle panoramic view, while the Bạch Đằng waterfront provides a close-up look at the boats and colonial architecture. Both are excellent spots for photography.

Are there guided tour Hoi An options for this specific river theme?

While many companies offer general walking routes, a self-guided audio walk is often better for this theme. It allows you to spend more time at the quiet sculptural gardens or the fish market without being rushed by a group.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

The Thu Bon River is the rhythmic heartbeat of Hoi An, a silver ribbon of water that has carried traders, fishermen, and legends for centuries. This self-guided walk invites you to step away from the crowded alleys and follow the river’s edge, where nature and culture intertwine seamlessly. From the rustic charm of the Cẩm Kim Bridge to the iconic silhouette of the Japanese Covered Bridge, you will witness how the water dictates the pace of life in this UNESCO World Heritage site. This walking route is designed for those who want to see the authentic side of the city, where the morning mist over the fish market transitions into the vibrant glow of evening lanterns. As you explore independently, you will encounter the Hoi An sculpture promenade, a space where local artistry pays homage to the maritime history of the region. The journey takes you through the architectural evolution of the town, highlighting the Chùa Cầu, a 17th-century symbol of peace and international connection. Beyond the stone and wood, the route emphasizes the living heritage of the river, from the traditional basket boats bobbing near Duy Hai to the bustling trade still active along the Bạch Đằng waterfront. This neighborhood stroll offers a balanced perspective of Hoi An’s dual identity: a peaceful rural sanctuary and a thriving historical port. Whether you are capturing the golden hour on your camera or simply soaking in the atmosphere of a walking tour Hoi An style, this route provides the flexibility to linger where you choose. The river tells a story of resilience and beauty, reflected in the shimmering water and the faces of the people who call its banks home. Discover the essence of the region at your own pace, away from the constraints of a rigid schedule, and find out why the Thu Bon remains the soul of Central Vietnam.

Highlights

Cross the Cẩm Kim Bridge for panoramic river views

Admire contemporary local art at the sculpture promenade

Visit the historic 17th-century Chùa Cầu (Japanese Bridge)

Experience the vibrant energy of the Duy Hai Fish Market

Walk the colonial-era waterfront of Bạch Đằng

Observe traditional lantern boats from the riverbanks

Tour Stops (6)

Cẩm Kim Bridge

Begin your self-guided adventure at the Cẩm Kim Bridge. This modern span replaced a long-standing ferry system, connecting the bustling ancient town with the quiet, rural island of Cẩm Kim. As you stand here, look down at the Thu Bon River; it has been the primary artery for trade in Central Vietnam for centuries. To your south lies an island famous for its woodworking heritage, where artisans once carved the intricate details of Hoi An’s famous assembly halls. The bridge offers one of the best vantage points to see the scale of the river and the traditional wooden boats that still ply these waters today.

Hoi An sculpture promenade

Walking along the northern bank, you will reach the sculpture promenade. This open-air gallery features works by local and international artists that reflect the spirit of Hoi An. Many of these pieces use stone and metal to depict themes of family, fishing, and the passage of time. It is a quiet contrast to the busy market nearby, offering a space for reflection. Notice how the sculptures are positioned to interact with the river's backdrop, blending contemporary creative expression with the timeless flow of the Thu Bon. It is a testament to how the city continues to evolve while honoring its cultural roots.

Chùa Cầu (The Japanese Bridge)

No walking route in Hoi An is complete without the Chùa Cầu, or the Japanese Covered Bridge. Built in the early 1600s by the Japanese merchant community, this bridge was designed to link the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the city. Look for the statues of dogs and monkeys at either end; legend says the bridge’s construction began in the year of the monkey and finished in the year of the dog. Inside, there is a small temple dedicated to the Taoist deity Tran Vo Bac De, the god of weather. This bridge is a rare example of a bridge with a pagoda built into its side, symbolizing the spiritual protection of the town from floods.

Hoi An lantern boat ride area

As you move closer to the An Hoi islet, you will see dozens of small wooden boats decorated with colorful silk lanterns. While many visitors choose to board these boats, the view from the shore is equally enchanting. These lanterns are more than just decoration; they represent the town’s history as a major trading port where Japanese, Chinese, and European influences merged. The tradition of releasing paper lanterns onto the water is a local way of sending off prayers for luck and peace. The reflection of the multi-colored lights on the dark water of the Thu Bon is arguably the most iconic image of Hoi An.

Duy Hai Fish Market

To truly understand the river’s bounty, consider the Duy Hai area. While the main market is located where the river meets the sea, its influence is felt all along the banks here. You might see 'thuyền thúng' or round basket boats being used to ferry goods from larger vessels to the shore. These unique circular boats were originally designed to avoid taxes imposed by French colonialists, who taxed traditional boats but not these 'baskets.' The market activity here is a sensory explosion of fresh seafood, aromatic spices, and the rhythmic calls of vendors. It is the raw, unpolished heart of the river’s economy.

Bạch Đằng Street

Finish your stroll along Bạch Đằng, the historic waterfront street. During the 18th and 19th centuries, this street was lined with warehouses and merchant homes. Today, the yellow-walled buildings house cafes and shops, but the architecture remains largely unchanged. This was the first point of contact for foreign sailors arriving in Hoi An. The street’s elevation is intentionally low to stay close to the water, which unfortunately makes it prone to seasonal flooding. As you walk, look for the high-water marks carved into some of the older buildings, a silent reminder of the river's power and the resilience of the people who live alongside it.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk along the Thu Bon River is ideal, as it combines the natural beauty of the waterway with the cultural heritage of the riverside neighborhoods. It allows you to see the transition from the manicured ancient town to the more rugged, natural riverbanks near Cẩm Kim.