Tan Ky Old House Hoi An
Step into an 18th-century merchant's home, a beautifully preserved gem showcasing Hoi An's rich history and exquisite craftsmanship.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Tan Ky Old House Hoi An
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step into an 18th-century merchant's home, a beautifully preserved gem showcasing Hoi An's rich history and exquisite craftsmanship.
"It's an awesome example of a classic Hoi An merchant's home with a really unique vibe and super cool stories."
🎟️ Ticket or Donation
An entrance ticket is required, but some visitors have donated instead. Check current policy upon arrival.
🕰️ Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tourist times and enjoy a more serene experience.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
18th-Century Merchant's Home
Ancient Town, Hoi An
Step back in time in this beautifully preserved merchant's house, showcasing centuries of history and architecture.
Flood Markings
Ground floor walls
Witness the striking flood level markers on the walls, a testament to the house's resilience through numerous floods.
Mother-of-Pearl Furnishings
Throughout the house
Admire the stunning antique furniture inlaid with intricate mother-of-pearl, a hallmark of traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Ticket & Donation
Crowd Control & Timing
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
After a month in Hoi An, these are the tips I tell my friends
🎟️ Ticket or Donation
An entrance ticket is required, but some visitors have donated instead. Check current policy upon arrival.
🕰️ Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tourist times and enjoy a more serene experience.
Things to do in Hoi An NOT tailor or restaurants or shopping?
Hoi An Old Town seemed like hell…THANK YOU REDDITORS
💧 Flood History
Look for the impressive flood level markings on the walls, a powerful reminder of the house's history.
💎 Admire the Details
Don't miss the exquisite mother-of-pearl inlaid furniture, a true display of craftsmanship.
Critique of Hoi An - During the day was pretty terrible, visit late evening/night instead
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Ticket or Donation
An entrance ticket is required, but some visitors have donated instead. Check current policy upon arrival.
🕰️ Beat the Crowds
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak tourist times and enjoy a more serene experience.
💧 Flood History
Look for the impressive flood level markings on the walls, a powerful reminder of the house's history.
💎 Admire the Details
Don't miss the exquisite mother-of-pearl inlaid furniture, a true display of craftsmanship.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Tan Ky Old House for its exceptional preservation, rich history, and beautiful mother-of-pearl furnishings, offering a genuine glimpse into Hoi An's merchant past. Some note it can be crowded and question the authenticity of some displayed items, but most agree it's a worthwhile cultural experience.
"Requires ticket to enter.
We didn’t have any so donated some money at the entrance.
This house is one of the oldest near the river and stood strong during many floods and the family still lives on upper floor and they only come here at 7pm. The place closes at 5pm anyway.
The whole house is made of wood and there are many “mother of pearl” furnitures which are absolutely stunning!
Must visit place if you are curious."
Rachitha Kote
"If you're in Hoi An, you have to check out the Tan Ky House! It’s right on the Thu Bon River and is an awesome example of a classic Hoi An merchant's home. Even though it's been around for a while, the house still has this really unique vibe and some super cool stories.
You'll get to see how the old merchants did business on the river, check out their unique pulley system, and just admire all the cool architecture. It’s a perfect place to really feel the history and see the true beauty of Hoi An."
Do Cuong
"Visited this historic house in Hoi An’s ancient town, filled with antiques and traditional furnishings. It’s incredible to see how well preserved it is, especially considering the regular flooding in the area. The markings on the wall showing previous flood levels were especially striking. Hard to believe the house has stood through it all."
David Payne
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Tan Ky Old House is located in the heart of Hoi An's Ancient Town, making it easily accessible on foot if you're already exploring the area. You can also hire a bicycle or take a cyclo to reach it. If arriving from outside the Ancient Town, consider a taxi or Grab.
Yes, it's very easy to find as it's a prominent landmark within the bustling Ancient Town of Hoi An. Look for signs directing you to the historic houses.
Walking is the best way to soak in the atmosphere of Hoi An's Ancient Town. Bicycles are also a popular and convenient option for getting around.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, an entrance ticket is required to visit Tan Ky Old House. However, some visitors have mentioned donating at the entrance if they didn't have a ticket. It's advisable to confirm the current policy.
The exact ticket price can vary, but it's generally an affordable entrance fee. It's best to check the latest pricing upon arrival or at the Hoi An Ancient Town ticket booth.
Tan Ky Old House is typically open daily from morning until late afternoon, usually closing around 5 PM. The family residing upstairs only comes down in the evening.
Tickets for Hoi An Ancient Town attractions, including Tan Ky Old House, are usually purchased at designated ticket booths within the Ancient Town. Online booking options may be limited.
There is no strict dress code, but it's a historic and residential home. Dressing respectfully, as you would for visiting any cultural site, is recommended.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find beautifully preserved rooms filled with antiques, traditional Vietnamese furnishings, and stunning mother-of-pearl inlays. You can also see the unique pulley system used for goods and the striking flood level markers.
A visit to Tan Ky Old House typically takes about 30-45 minutes. It's a relatively small house, but rich in history and detail.
Children can visit, but supervision is recommended as there are many delicate antiques. The history and visual elements might be more engaging for older children.
Photography is generally allowed inside Tan Ky Old House, but it's always good practice to be respectful and avoid flash photography, especially in areas where the family resides.
It's one of the oldest merchant houses in Hoi An, remarkably preserved through floods and time. Its architecture, mother-of-pearl furnishings, and the stories it holds make it a unique glimpse into Hoi An's past.
📸 📸 Photography
The courtyard with its traditional architecture, the intricately decorated rooms with mother-of-pearl furniture, and the exterior facade are all great for photos. The flood markings also make for a unique shot.
While generally permitted, it's best to avoid using flash photography out of respect for the residents and to protect the delicate antiques.
Early morning or late afternoon offers softer light, which is ideal for photography. The golden hour can create a beautiful ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Keep the visit concise, focusing on the most visually engaging elements. Explain that this was a home and a place of business for a merchant family centuries ago. The mother-of-pearl details on the furniture can be pointed out as examples of beautiful craftsmanship. It's a relatively quick visit, so it won't disrupt a busy day of exploring Hoi An's Ancient Town.
🏛️ History Buffs
Delve into the stories of the merchant families who lived and traded here. The flood level markers are a powerful historical record, illustrating the constant negotiation between human settlement and the natural environment. The mother-of-pearl inlays are not just decorative; they represent a significant aspect of Vietnamese artisanal heritage and the wealth generated through trade. This house is a tangible link to Hoi An's prosperous past as a major trading port.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into Hoi An's Merchant Past
Visitors are often struck by the unique architectural blend, incorporating elements from Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese styles, reflecting Hoi An's cosmopolitan past. The house is renowned for its exquisite mother-of-pearl inlaid furniture, a craft that was highly prized. You'll also notice the ingenious pulley system used to transport goods, showcasing the practicalities of historical trade. The striking flood level markings on the walls serve as a powerful visual reminder of the river's impact and the house's resilience.
Exploring Tan Ky Old House offers more than just a visual experience; it's an immersion into the lifestyle and business practices of Hoi An's prosperous merchant class. It provides a tangible connection to the town's rich history and its evolution as a vital trading port. The preservation efforts ensure that future generations can appreciate this significant piece of Vietnamese heritage.
Preservation and Resilience
This resilience is not just about the building's materials but also about the continuity of family life within its walls. The fact that the original family still resides in the upper floors adds a layer of authenticity and respect to the visitor experience. It means the house is not merely a museum piece but a living heritage site. This continuity is crucial for understanding the true essence of such historical dwellings.
Visitors often express awe at how well-maintained the house is, especially considering its age and the environmental challenges. The mother-of-pearl inlays on the furniture and decorative elements are particularly well-preserved, showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship that has been passed down. This dedication to preservation makes Tan Ky Old House a vital window into Hoi An's past and a symbol of its enduring cultural legacy.
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