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

Hoi An, a quaint town in central Vietnam, is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of cultural experiences. From the ancient Cham temples of My Son Sanctuary to the artistry behind traditional rice paper making, this tour promises to immerse visitors in the rich heritage of the region. Complemented by a delectable Vietnamese lunch and a serene boat trip along the Thu Bon River, the day-long adventure promises to leave travelers with a deeper appreciation for the enchanting charm of Hoi An.

Good To Know

• Immersive tour of the UNESCO-recognized My Son Sanctuary, exploring ancient Cham temple ruins and cultural performances.
• Indulgence in a traditional Vietnamese lunch featuring a variety of local dishes.
• Hands-on experience in the art of rice paper making at a local house.
• Serene boat cruise along the Thu Bon River, offering tranquil views of the surrounding landscape.
• Comprehensive tour package with hotel pickup, knowledgeable guide, and overall high customer satisfaction.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This tour offers an immersive experience in the UNESCO-recognized My Son Sanctuary, situated just an hour’s drive from Hoi An.

Priced from $20.11 per person, the 6-hour tour is limited to 14 participants and conducted in English. Hotel pickup is included, with an option for Da Nang hotels at an additional fee.

The itinerary covers exploring the ancient Cham temples, a traditional Vietnamese lunch, rice paper making, and a boat cruise on the Thu Bon River.

Explore ancient Cham temples, savor a Vietnamese lunch, learn rice paper making, and cruise the Thu Bon River.

With an overall rating of 4.8/5 from over 1,000 reviews, this comprehensive tour promises an engaging and memorable experience.

Exploring My Son Sanctuary

After a scenic drive from Hoi An, visitors arrive at the UNESCO-recognized My Son Sanctuary, a remarkable archaeological site that showcases the grandeur of the Champa civilization.

A knowledgeable guide leads the group on a tour, providing insights into the temple ruins and the cultural significance of the site. Visitors explore the well-preserved brick structures, learn about the architectural style, and witness captivating Champa performances.

The tranquil setting amid the lush, green hills creates a serene atmosphere, allowing travelers to enjoy the ancient history and mystique of this important cultural landmark.

Indulging in a Traditional Vietnamese Lunch

Following the exploration of the captivating My Son Sanctuary, the tour group gathers for a traditional Vietnamese lunch.

The meal is served at a local restaurant, offering a variety of options, including chicken, pork, shrimp, spring rolls, rice dumplings, and vegetarian/vegan dishes.

A selection of Vietnamese delights, including chicken, pork, shrimp, spring rolls, rice dumplings, and vegetarian/vegan options, served at a local restaurant.

The menu also features fresh fruit for dessert.

The group enjoys the authentic flavors and cultural experience, savoring the 30-minute lunch break before continuing on to the next activity – learning the art of rice paper making.

The traditional Vietnamese meal provides a delightful respite and culture during the comprehensive tour.

Mastering the Art of Rice Paper Making

The tour then leads the group to a local house, where they learn the intricate art of traditional rice paper making.

Under the guidance of a skilled local, participants watch as rice flour is expertly transformed into delicate, translucent sheets. They learn the step-by-step process, from mixing the batter to carefully spreading it on a heated surface.

Guests then have the opportunity to try their hand at this age-old craft, gaining an appreciation for the patience and technique required. This hands-on experience provides a unique glimpse into the culinary heritage of Hoi An.

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Cruising Along the Thu Bon River

As the morning exploration of the ancient My Son Sanctuary comes to a close, the tour group boards a boat for a relaxing cruise along the Thu Bon River.

The 30-minute journey offers a serene respite, allowing travelers to soak in the picturesque scenery of the river’s lush banks and peaceful waters.

Along the way, they may spot local fishermen and traditional wooden boats.

The boat trip provides a unique opportunity to experience the tranquil rhythm of life on the river, complementing the cultural insights gained at the My Son Sanctuary earlier in the tour.

Transportation and Logistics

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off in Hoi An, ensuring a convenient and hassle-free experience for participants.

Pickup is offered from both Hoi An and Da Nang hotels, with an additional fee for the latter. The air-conditioned vehicle transports guests to the My Son Sanctuary, located about an hour away.

After the guided tour and activities, the vehicle returns guests to their hotels in Hoi An.

Electric cars are used to transfer participants within the sanctuary, providing a comfortable and eco-friendly mode of transportation.

Bottled water and tea are provided throughout the day, keeping guests hydrated during the journey.

What’s Included in the Tour

Aside from hotel pickup and drop-off in Hoi An, this tour includes an air-conditioned vehicle that transports participants to the My Son Sanctuary, located about an hour away.

An English-speaking guide leads the group through the historical site, sharing insights about the Champa civilization.

An expert guide leads the tour, imparting knowledge about the intriguing Champa civilization at the historical My Son Sanctuary.

Lunch at a local restaurant features traditional Vietnamese dishes like chicken, pork, shrimp, and vegetarian options.

After exploring the My Son ruins, the tour continues with a hands-on rice paper making demonstration and a relaxing boat cruise along the Thu Bon River.

Bottled water, tea, and the My Son Sanctuary entrance fee are also covered.

Customer Feedback and Ratings

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised this tour, with an impressive overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on over 1,000 reviews.

Customers consistently highlight the passionate and informative guides, engaging experiences at My Son Sanctuary and during the boat trip, and the enjoyable rice paper making activity.

Reviewers express satisfaction with the tour’s overall experience, praising the knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to enjoy Hoi An’s cultural heritage.

The positive feedback underscores the tour’s ability to provide an authentic and memorable journey through this historic region of Vietnam.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is There a Discount for Children or Seniors?

The tour does not mention any discounts for children or seniors. The price listed is per person, and the group size is limited to 14 participants, suggesting a fixed pricing structure regardless of age.

Can I Add Additional Activities to the Tour?

Yes, travelers can typically add extra activities to this tour, such as a visit to a local handicraft workshop or a cooking class. However, additional fees may apply. It’s best to inquire with the tour provider about customization options.

How Physically Demanding Is the Walking at My Son Sanctuary?

The walking at My Son Sanctuary involves some uneven terrain and mild inclines, but it’s generally not overly strenuous. Visitors can take their time and rest as needed during the guided tour through the ancient ruins.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Yes, photography is allowed during the tour. Visitors can freely take pictures at the My Son Sanctuary and throughout the other activities, providing an opportunity to capture the cultural experiences and scenic landscapes.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Trip?

Guests are generally not permitted to bring their own food and drinks on the boat trip. The tour includes bottled water and tea, and a traditional Vietnamese lunch is provided. Adherence to the tour’s inclusions ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour offers a captivating blend of ancient cultural exploration, culinary discovery, and serene river cruising in the charming Hoi An region. Visitors can explore the rich Cham heritage at My Son Sanctuary, indulge in authentic Vietnamese cuisine, learn the art of rice paper making, and bask in the tranquil beauty of the Thu Bon River. It’s an unforgettable journey that showcases the diverse cultural treasures of this enchanting destination.

You can check if your dates are available here: