In the 16th century, Japanese and Chinese traders built a commercial district at Hoi An, and the town became one of the major trading centres of Southeast Asia. As a result, there is a distinctly Chinese/Japanese atmosphere, with these cultural influences visible in the elaborately carved wooden facades, narrow streets and tile-roofed houses of the Old Quarter that have survived for centuries.

The Japanese Bridge, built in the 17th century, is an outstanding example of Japanese architecture. Apart from its unspoilt heritage, Hoi An is also famous for its tailors. The small establishments of the town's numerous and talented tailors are great for stocking up on affordable, well-made clothes.