Hoi An, Vietnam

In Today's Daily Jigsaw Puzzle we visit Hoi An, Vietnam ♥

Hoi An, Vietnam, is a beautifully preserved ancient town that blends history, culture, and natural beauty. Located on the central coast, it was a thriving trading port from the 16th to the 19th centuries, drawing merchants from China, Japan, and Europe. During its golden age, Hoi An’s population was estimated to be several tens of thousands, with large Chinese and Japanese communities, while European traders maintained a smaller but notable presence.

This cultural exchange shaped Hoi An’s distinct architectural style, seen in its iconic yellow-walled houses, wooden shopfronts, and ornate temples. The town’s Old Quarter, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site in 1999, remains remarkably well-preserved, protected from large-scale modernization. Visitors can stroll along lantern-lit streets, cross the historic Japanese Covered Bridge, and explore centuries-old assembly halls.

Beyond its history, Hoi An is famous for its tailor shops, where skilled artisans craft custom-made clothing. The town’s cuisine is another highlight, featuring specialties like cao lầu (a noodle dish made with water from ancient Cham wells) and white rose dumplings.

Now, this moves us: Every full moon, Hoi An hosts a Lantern Festival, during which the town dims many of its streetlights to let traditional lanterns bathe the streets in a warm glow. Locals and visitors release floating candles on the river, an adaptation of traditional ancestor-honoring rituals ♥