Japanese Covered Bridge
In 1593 Hoi An's Japanese community built a covered bridge between their quarter and that of the neighbouring Chinese district. This bridge has since become something of a symbol of Hoi An - there's even a legend to explain its presence (beyond the obvious reason that it gets people across a stream). The legend claims that a huge dragon lay beneath the earth; its head in India, its body in Vietnam and its tail in Japan. As the dragon caused havoc whenever it wriggled, Hoi An's citizens built the bridge over its heart, thereby killing it. Overcome by guilt, they then erected a small temple inside the covered bridge devoted to this slain creature's soul.

Tan Ky House
Built by a well-off Vietnamese merchant in the early 1800s, the Tan Ky house (101 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street) is a fine example of Hoi An's architectural fusion, mixing Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese elements. Long and skinny, the house faces a street that runs into Hoi An's central market, and backs onto the river. The solemn interior features dark wooden columns and wooden scrolls inlaid with Chinese poems written in inlaid mother-of-pearl beneath a Japanese-styled ceiling. Now open to visitors, the house is still home to the same family that built it. MICE groups may arrange special dinner parties in Hoi An's historic homes and communal halls.

Quan Cong Temple
Set across the street from the main market, this red-faced temple is dedicated to Quan Cong, a Chinese hero from the third century AD revered for his boldness, honesty and loyalty. There's also a life-sized statue of Quan Cong's trusty horse. Built by Chinese immigrants, the temple dates back to the 1650s.

Shopping

Tailors
Wander around Hoi An's back streets and you'll become aware of a soft, clattering hum. It's the sound of sewing machines. This little town is home to literally hundreds of tailor shops. Nobody will be able to tell you exactly when, how or why Hoi An became sewing central; one theory is that, as an area long known for producing silk, the locals have a long-established knack with a needle.

A few years ago, there were about a dozen shops. As more and more visitors went home and told their friends about the cheap prices and custom-fits, demand grew - and new shops appeared. Prices are astonishingly reasonable, plus these guys (and girls) are quick! Give them a day and they'll fit you out in a whole new wardrobe. The choice of fabrics is somewhat limited - you'll find a lot of silk and silk/nylon blends.