Wondering what to buy in Hoi An? Discover the 14 must-have items, from stunning silk lanterns to custom-made clothing, handcrafted jewelry to local delicacies. This guide reveals the best things to buy in Hoi An for the perfect souvenir or gift.
List of Contents
1. Tailor-Made Clothes
Hoi An is renowned for its bespoke tailoring services, offering custom-made clothes with high-quality materials and precise craftsmanship. Whether you're looking for a perfectly fitted suit, a stylish dress, or casual wear, Hoi An's tailors can create it all to your exact specifications.
Popular Shops:
- Bao Diep Tailor
- Be Li Tailor
- Blue Eye Tailor – Le Loi Branch
Price Range: $42 – $144 USD
The craftsmanship and attention to detail at these tailoring shops ensure that you receive garments that fit perfectly and are made from premium fabrics. Tailor-made clothes are among the most sought-after Hoi An souvenirs.
Read more: 10 Best Tailors in Hoi An: Crafting Fashion Dreams
2. Silk Products
Hoi An silk is famous for its top-notch quality, luxurious texture, and exquisite patterns. These silk products include scarves, ties, sleeping sheets, and a variety of clothing items. The silk from Hoi An is soft, light, and breathable, making it perfect for both summer and winter wear.
Popular Shops:
- Hoi An Silk Village (28 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street)
- Metiseko (140 Tran Phu Street)
Price Range: $9 – $100 USD
Purchasing silk in Hoi An not only means acquiring beautiful and practical items but also supporting a traditional craft that has been a part of the town's heritage for centuries. Hoi An silk products make for elegant gifts and personal keepsakes.
3. Lanterns
One of the most iconic symbols of Hoi An, handcrafted lanterns are a must-buy when visiting this ancient town. Made from bamboo frames and silk or paper, these lanterns come in various shapes, sizes, and colors. They are not only beautiful decorations but also represent the town's unique aesthetic.
Popular Shops:
- Nguyen Phuc Chu Street
- Ha Linh Lantern Manufacturing Unit (72 Tran Nhan Tong Street)
- Hoi An Night Market (Nguyen Hoang Street)
Price Range: $4 – $20 USD
The sight of colorful lanterns illuminating the streets of Hoi An at night is enchanting, and taking one home allows you to capture a bit of that magic. These lanterns are lightweight and easy to pack, making them perfect souvenirs or gifts.
4. Leather Goods
Hoi An is also famous for its high-quality leather goods, including bags, shoes, and accessories. These leather items are not only stylish but also durable, with custom-made options available to ensure a perfect fit and unique design.
Popular Shops:
- The Friendly Leather Bag Shop (44 Phan Boi Chau Street)
- Blue Lotus Leather (69/3 Phan Chu Trinh Street)
- Friendly Shoe Shop (18 Tran Phu Street)
- Real leather trademark (29 Tran Phu Street)
Price Range:
- Bags: $43 – $260 USD
- Shoes: $50 – $150 USD
For those wondering what to buy in Hoi An to combine style and functionality, leather goods are an excellent choice. The craftsmanship and quality of these products are second to none, making them ideal for everyday use or as special gifts.
5. Pottery
Traditional pottery from Thanh Ha Pottery Village is another highlight of Hoi An's shopping scene. Known for its rustic charm and skilled craftsmanship, Thanh Ha pottery includes a range of items such as cups, bowls, vases, and sculptures.
Popular Shops:
- Thanh Ha Pottery Village (Alongside Thu Bon River)
- Nam Tran Ceramics (124 Tran Cao Van Street)
Price Range: Variable depending on the item
These handcrafted pottery items are perfect for those who appreciate artisanal crafts and wish to bring a piece of Hoi An's heritage into their homes. Pottery from Hoi An not only serves as a beautiful decorative item but also as a functional piece of art.
6. Woodwork
Intricate wood carvings and sculptures are another unique aspect of Hoi An's rich craft tradition. Often made from unique materials like tree roots, these wooden items reflect the meticulous skill and creativity of Hoi An's artisans.
Popular Shops:
- Kim Bong Carpentry Village (Cam Kim Ward)
Price Range: Variable depending on the item
For visitors seeking what to buy in Hoi An that embodies the town's traditional craftsmanship, woodwork is an excellent choice. These carvings and sculptures make for distinctive home decor pieces or meaningful gifts, each telling a story of Hoi An's cultural legacy.
7. Jewelry and Accessories
Hoi An is a haven for handmade jewelry enthusiasts, offering a variety of necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings. These pieces often feature intricate Vietnamese motifs and are crafted with great care and attention to detail.
Popular Shops:
- Lotus Jewelry (82 Tran Phu Street)
- Ngoc Duc Jewelry (147 Tran Phu Street)
Price Range: Variable depending on the item
Handmade jewelry from Hoi An makes for a unique and personal gift. Whether you're looking for a special souvenir or a meaningful present, these items are a perfect representation of Hoi An's artistic spirit.
8. Arts and Photography
Hoi An's vibrant arts scene is reflected in its beautiful paintings and photographs. These artworks capture the essence of daily life, natural landscapes, and the rich culture of Hoi An, making them perfect souvenirs or gifts.
Popular Shops:
- Réhahn Gallery (7 Nguyen Hue Street)
- Hoi An Art Gallery (06 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street)
Price Range: $9 – $83 USD
Art lovers wondering what to buy in Hoi An will find that these paintings and photographs are not only beautiful but also provide a lasting memory of their visit to this enchanting town.
9. Traditional Masks
Traditional hand-painted masks are a unique aspect of Vietnamese culture, representing classical opera characters. These masks are intricately designed and vividly colored, making them standout decorative pieces.
Popular Shops:
- Hoi An Market (19 Tran Phu Street)
- Hoi An Handicraft Workshop (9 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street)
Price Range: Variable depending on the item
For those interested in what to buy in Hoi An that showcases local artistry, traditional masks are an excellent choice. They are both culturally significant and visually striking.
10. Non La (Conical Hat)
The iconic Vietnamese conical hat, known as Non La, is made from bamboo and palm leaves. It is not only a practical item but also a symbol of Vietnamese culture.
Popular Shops:
- Hoi An Central Market (19 Tran Phu Street)
- Hoi An Night Market (Nguyen Hoang Street)
Price Range: $1.25 – $12.5 USD
Non La hats are a perfect souvenir to take home, providing a piece of Vietnamese tradition and style. They are lightweight and easy to carry, making them ideal for travelers.
11. Bamboo Products
Bamboo products, including chopsticks and other utensils, reflect the importance of bamboo in Vietnamese culture. These items are eco-friendly and beautifully crafted, showcasing the skill of local artisans.
Popular Shops:
- Reaching Out Arts and Crafts (131 Tran Phu Street)
Price Range: Variable depending on the item
For those looking for practical and culturally rich items, bamboo products are among the best Hoi An souvenirs. They offer a glimpse into the daily life and traditions of Vietnam.
12. Coffee and Tea
Vietnamese coffee and tea are renowned for their distinctive and rich flavors, making them popular choices among visitors. Whether you prefer a strong, aromatic coffee or a soothing cup of tea, Hoi An offers a variety of options to satisfy your taste.
Popular Shops:
- Reaching Out Teahouse (131 Tran Phu Street)
- Hoi An Night Market (Nguyen Hoang Street)
Price Range: Variable depending on the item
For coffee lovers and tea enthusiasts, knowing what to buy in Hoi An includes these flavorful beverages. They make for excellent gifts and a delightful way to remember your trip.
Read more: Best Coffee in Hoi An
13. Scarves and Ties
Silk scarves and ties from Hoi An are highly sought after as fashion accessories. Known for their luxurious feel and beautiful patterns, these items add a touch of elegance to any wardrobe.
Popular Shops:
- Cocoon (128 Tran Phu Street)
- Thang Loi (92 Phan Chu Trinh Street)
Price Range: From $120,000 VND onwards
These silk products are perfect for those looking to add a sophisticated touch to their style or as exquisite gifts for friends and family.
14. Keychains
Keychains are small, affordable, and practical souvenirs that represent Hoi An's charm. They come in various designs and often feature iconic symbols of the town.
Popular Shops:
- Various souvenir shops throughout Hoi An
Price Range: Variable depending on the item
Keychains are ideal for those wondering what to buy in Hoi An on a budget. They are easy to pack and carry, making them perfect mementos or small gifts.
Conclusion
Hoi An offers a diverse array of shopping opportunities that cater to all tastes and budgets. From luxurious silk products and intricate woodwork to flavorful coffee and tea, each item reflects the town's rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions.
Knowing what to buy in Hoi An ensures you take home meaningful and beautiful souvenirs that capture the essence of this enchanting destination.
For insider tips on getting the most out of your visit, check out our Hoi An Travel Guide. And don't miss our roundup of the top things to do in Hoi An, from cooking classes to bicycle tours through the scenic countryside.
With its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant culture, Hoi An truly has something for every traveler to discover.
FAQ
What is Hoi An, Vietnam known for?
Hoi An Ancient Town is a remarkably preserved example of a Southeast Asian trading port that thrived from the 15th to 19th centuries. The town's architecture and layout showcase a unique blend of local and international influences.
What is Hoi An famous for shopping in Vietnam?
Hoi An is a shopper's paradise, offering leather bags, Non La hats, Ao Dai, lanterns, ceramics, paintings, North Face items, Vietnamese coffee, custom shoes, straw bags, and jewelry.
What is the national dish of Hoi An?
Cao lau is the quintessential Hoi An dish. It features chewy, thick rice noodles topped with Chinese-style barbecue pork, bean sprouts, croutons, fresh herbs, and a savory pork-based gravy.
How much does a lantern cost in Hoi An?
Expect to pay between 70,000-90,000 VND for a large lantern and 30,000-40,000 VND for a small one. Prices may vary depending on your negotiation skills.
What brands to buy in Vietnam?
Popular high-end Vietnamese fashion designers include Cong Tri, Do Manh Cuong, and Le Thanh Hoa. While luxury clothing can be pricey in Vietnam, you can find more budget-friendly options at outlet stores and online retailers.
