What to buy in Hoi An: Leather Goods, Handicrafts, and Local Treasures

What to buy in Hoi An

Hoi An is a haven for shoppers. While it’s renowned for its picturesque charm—its Ancient Town, the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and its status as a UNESCO World Heritage site—it also offers a treasure trove of shopping experiences. If you’re wondering what to buy in Hoi An, the options are endless, from locally-crafted round straw bags to bespoke suits and vibrant lanterns. Add to that the irresistible street food and rich Vietnamese coffee that energize your shopping journey, and the lively atmosphere of the bustling markets.

In this guide, we’ll delve into what to buy in Hoi An, whether you’re hunting for unique souvenirs, thoughtful gifts, or fresh ingredients for a barbecue back at your hotel. We’ll walk you through your options, reveal where to find the best deals, and share tips on how to secure fair prices. Plus, we’ll explore each of Hoi An’s specialties, one by one, so you won’t miss a thing.

What to buy in Hoi An: Leather Goods, Handicrafts, and Local Treasures

What to buy in Hoi An

Hoi An boasts a rich heritage of traditional craftsmanship, where local artisans have honed and passed down their skills for generations. This deep-rooted tradition has helped the town maintain a vibrant and diverse shopping scene, with various neighborhoods and nearby villages specializing in unique items. In this section, we’ll explore what to buy in Hoi An, highlighting each of the local specialties that will captivate any shopper’s interest.

Crafting Leather

Hoi An is renowned for its exquisite leather goods, from sleek leather bags and stylish shoes to luxurious alligator belts and other chic accessories. Authentic leather products aren’t cheap, and it’s increasingly rare to find well-crafted pieces. That’s what makes them a timeless way to remember your visit to Hoi An and a perfect choice for what to buy in Hoi An as a special souvenir.

What to buy in Hoi An

Where to Get It: For the finest leather bags and accessories, Tran Phu Street is your go-to destination. Be sure to steer clear of the kitschy souvenir shops selling lower-quality leather on the same street. You can also find more affordable yet still well-made leather items at shops within Hoi An’s main market, located at the corner of Tran Phu Street and Nguyen Hue Street.

Tailoring

Hoi An is the ultimate destination in Vietnam for tailor-made clothing. Whether you’re seeking a light, tropical cotton blend perfect for humid climates or a heavier fabric to bring back home, the town’s 400+ tailor shops are equipped to craft garments to your exact specifications. Impressively, many of these tailors can create a bespoke suit within just 24 to 48 hours. However, giving yourself a bit more time for additional fittings can ensure an even better fit. For those wondering what to buy in Hoi An, a custom-made outfit is an exceptional choice. For more detailed guidance, Danavitour offers a comprehensive guide to tailor-made clothes in Hoi An.
What to buy in Hoi An
Where to Get It: The best areas for high-quality tailoring services are Nguyen Duy Hieu, Tran Hung Dao, and Tran Phu Streets. These streets are home to renowned couture boutiques like Yaly Tailor Shop, which has multiple locations, as well as charming, family-run shops like Tony the Tailor.

Luxurious Silk

Hoi An and its surrounding region have perfected the art of silk production, creating some of the softest and most exquisite silk products available. You can embark on a day tour outside the city to visit factories where silk production begins with silkworms, and then explore traditional Vietnamese silk emporiums like the renowned Silk Village near Hoi An Old Town, where the finished products are showcased. Whether you’re looking for delicate silk scarves or the softest silk dresses you’ve ever touched, you’ll find that the quality of silk at most local shops far surpasses that of ordinary silk.

What to buy in Hoi An

Where to Get It: For the best selection of silk products in Hoi An, head to Hoi An Silk Village (28 Nguyen Tat Thanh). This destination is a haven for those interested in silk, offering both genuine and synthetic options. They are transparent about the type of silk they sell, so be sure to inquire before making a purchase. If you’re wondering what to buy in Hoi An, silk items are a luxurious choice.

Wood Carvings

Wood carvings are a cherished art form in Vietnamese culture, with elegant wooden furniture, intricate sculptures, and decorative trinkets often found in affluent households. Kim Bong Carpentry Village, located on an island south of Hoi An Old Town, stands out as one of the premier destinations in Vietnam for exquisite woodwork.

What to buy in Hoi An

While many pieces may be too large or heavy for travelers to take home, many local shops offer shipping services to safely send your purchases back home, making it easy for both local buyers and visitors.

If you’re considering what to buy in Hoi An, look no further than Kim Bong Carpentry Village. To reach it, simply cross Cam Kim Bridge and explore the artisanal craftsmanship that defines this unique location.

Ceramics

Ceramics offer a deeply personal touch, making them a truly special gift or souvenir when crafted by your own hands. Thanh Ha Pottery Village, located in a tranquil area west of Hoi An, provides an exceptional shopping experience. For a modest entrance fee of around 20,000 VND, you’ll gain access to this peaceful retreat away from the city’s hustle.

What to buy in Hoi An

The locals are incredibly welcoming and enthusiastic, often inviting visitors to try their hand at pottery-making on a wheel right outside their homes. Whether you create a vase, mug, or even a flute, you can take your handcrafted piece with you at no extra cost. However, it’s customary to leave a small tip as a gesture of appreciation for their hospitality. If you’re exploring what to buy in Hoi An, this hands-on pottery experience is a magical choice.

Where to Get It: Thanh Ha Pottery Village, located approximately 2.5 kilometers west of Hoi An’s Old Town.

Colorful Lanterns

What to buy in Hoi An

Colorful lanterns, crafted from delicate paper and adorned with nature-inspired motifs, are one of the most enchanting symbols of traditional East Asian culture. The streets around Nguyen Phuc Chu and along the Thu Bon River in Hoi An are lined with shops showcasing these beautiful lanterns. As evening falls, the soft, warm glow of the lanterns casts a magical light, reflecting off the river and creating a fairy-tale atmosphere. For anyone pondering what to buy in Hoi An, these lanterns are not only iconic souvenirs but also practical gifts. Their lightweight and foldable design makes them easy to pack for a trip home.

Where to Get It: Look for lanterns on Nguyen Phuc Chu, Le Loi, and Nguyen Thai Hoc Streets.

Jewelry Pieces

Hoi An offers an array of stunning jewelry, from budget-friendly pieces at the night market to high-quality, unique items available in specialized shops. Particularly noteworthy is the marble jewelry, which is affordably priced due to the proximity of the Marble Mountains. Additionally, jewelry featuring pearls, silver, and gemstones is often more reasonably priced than elsewhere, with exceptional craftsmanship. Don’t miss the chance to explore straw jewelry, a distinctive Hoi An specialty.

What to buy in Hoi An

If you’re considering what to buy in Hoi An, many local jewelry shops also provide custom design services, allowing you to create one-of-a-kind pieces that make memorable souvenirs or gifts.

NGO Goods

In recent years, Hoi An has become a hub for sustainable craft businesses that support the local community. Notable examples include Reaching Out Vietnam, a nonprofit established in 2000 that employs artisans with disabilities and showcases their work at their store on Tran Phu Street. Similarly, Lifestart supports disabled locals by selling their handcrafted items at their shop on Phan Chu Trinh.

What to buy in Hoi An

In addition to crafts, several organizations run restaurants that exclusively hire disadvantaged local staff, providing valuable employment opportunities. Some of these restaurants include:

  • Blue Dragon at 46 Bach Dang
  • Streets at 17 Le Loi
  • The White Lotus at 11 Phan Boi Chau

If you’re wondering what to buy in Hoi An, the crafts from these organizations make excellent gifts, enriched by the meaningful stories behind them.

Art

History enthusiasts and art aficionados alike will find themselves captivated by the vibrant galleries in Hoi An that highlight local artists. Modern Vietnamese art is unique, blending traditional styles with French and contemporary Chinese influences, all while reflecting the natural beauty and historic architecture of Hoi An. Paintings are an exceptional choice for what to buy in Hoi An, as they can grace your home with a lasting reminder of the beauty you experienced in Vietnam.

What to buy in Hoi An

Where to Get It: For the best selection, visit galleries on Phan Boi Chau and Nguyen Thai Hoc Streets, although you’ll find excellent options scattered throughout the city.

Street Cuisine

While it might not fall under traditional shopping, indulging in Hoi An’s street cuisine is an essential part of your visit and a delicious complement to your shopping adventure. Sampling local delights like savory sandwiches, refreshing tropical cold-pressed juices, the renowned cao lau, and rich Vietnamese coffee offers a true taste of Hoi An’s culture. For a comprehensive guide on the best culinary experiences, be sure to check out our full food guide for Hoi An.

What to buy in Hoi An

Where to Get It: The Hoi An Central Market, located at the corner of Nguyen Hue and Tran Phu, along with Phan Chau Trinh, Nguyen Thai Hoc, and Nguyen Hoang Streets, are prime spots for street food. However, you’ll encounter tempting street food stalls throughout the town. If you’re considering what to buy in Hoi An, don’t miss out on these flavorful local specialties.

Readmore: White rose dumplings Hoi An: A culinary gem of Hoi An’s exquisite cuisine

Securing the Best Deals and Mastering Bargaining

In Hoi An, prices for items are often comparable to or even lower than what you’d find in your home country. While it might be tempting to accept the initial price, especially if you’re not concerned about costs, most shops—particularly in the Central Market or Hoi An Night Market—are open to negotiation. You could potentially reduce prices by 50-75% with a bit of bargaining. For more insights, check out our guide to local markets in Hoi An.

Bargaining not only helps you save money but can also be an enjoyable and rewarding experience. In cultures where haggling is common, it’s seen as a way to demonstrate self-respect and assertiveness, so engaging in it can offer a deeper connection to local customs.

To find the best prices, stick to the recommended locations in this guide when exploring Hoi An. While you’ll encounter similar products throughout the town—like carved wooden items at the Night Market or lanterns on Tran Phu Street—the best value for money is often found in shops that specialize in specific items. If you’re considering what to buy in Hoi An, these specialized spots are your best bet for a great price-to-quality ratio.

Bringing It All Together

From the charming cobblestone streets of the Ancient Town to the vibrant energy of the Night Market, Hoi An is a shopper’s paradise. With such a diverse array of goods available, you can easily find something special for everyone back home, all while picking up a few unique Hoi An souvenirs for yourself. And with a bit of effort, you can enjoy all this at a reasonable price.

If you’re planning a trip to Hoi An, consider joining the Vietnam is Awesome Sunset Hoi An Tour. Your guide can highlight several prime shopping destinations if you inquire. This tour offers a wonderful chance to experience Hoi An at its most picturesque and discover what to buy in Hoi An in style.

 

 

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