Top 12 Museums in Hoi An You Must Visit

Museums in Hoi An showcase the town’s rich trading heritage, traditional crafts, and cultural history through collections of ancient artifacts, trade ceramics, folk traditions, silk weaving, and local photography. Most of these museums are conveniently located within or near the Ancient Town and can be explored with a single combo ticket, making them an easy and worthwhile cultural experience for visitors. In this guide, GTrip introduces 12 must visit museums and cultural spaces that reveal the unique identity and historical legacy of Hoi An.

1. Museum Of Sa Huynh Culture

• Address: 149 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ward (formerly Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM (closed on Saturday, Sunday)
• Ticket prices: 120,000 VND (~$4.60) for foreign adults & children above 15 years old

Stepping into the Museum of Sa Huynh Culture is like traveling back over 2,000 years to discover the earliest settlers of the Hoi An region. Long before it became a famous trading port, this area was home to the sophisticated Sa Huynh people. This museum, housed in a charming heritage building, is dedicated entirely to them. The collection features a range of fascinating artifacts excavated from local archaeological sites, including distinctive burial jars, intricate jewelry, bronze weapons, and early iron tools. For visitors, it’s important to note that administratively, Hoi An's wards are now part of Da Nang City, hence the updated address. The museum’s most famous artifacts are the unique burial jars, which provide priceless insights into the customs and beliefs of this ancient civilization.

The Museum of Sa Huynh Culture showcases ancient artifacts and reveals the history of the region’s earliest settlers over 2,000 years ago

2. Museum Of Trade Ceramics

• Address: 80 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ward (formerly Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Ticket price: 120,000 VND (~$4.60) for foreign adult & children above 15 years old

The Museum of Trade Ceramics is a beautiful tribute to Hoi An’s golden era as a bustling international port between the 15th and 19th centuries. Located in a lovingly restored traditional wooden house, the museum experience is as much about the architecture as it is about the exhibits. Inside, you'll find an incredible collection of pottery and ceramics that passed through Hoi An's harbor. These pieces are evidence of a vast trade network, showcasing a stunning assembly of artifacts from China, Japan, Thailand, and even the Middle East. The collection is a testament to Hoi An's role as a vital cross-cultural trading hub on the historic "Ceramic Road". Examining these well-preserved bowls, plates, and vases helps you visualize the flow of goods and ideas that shaped the town and made it a wealthy, cosmopolitan center. This museum is a crucial stop for anyone interested in maritime history and global trade.

The Museum of Trade Ceramics highlights Hoi An’s maritime trading heritage through beautiful ceramics from around the world

3. Thanh Ha Terracotta Park Museum (Hoi An Pottery Museum)

• Address: Pham Phan Street, Nam Dieu Block, Hoi An Tay Ward (formerly Thanh Ha, Hoi An, Quang Nam), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:30 PM
• Ticket price:
  • Adult: 50,000 VND/person (~$1.92)
  • 3-14 years: 30,000 VND (~$1.15)
  • Under 3: Free

A short trip from the Ancient Town, the Thanh Ha Terracotta Park Museum is a celebration of the region's 500-year-old pottery-making tradition. This unique park is more than a static museum; it's an immersive experience for all ages. The park is divided into two main areas: one tracing the history of pottery from ancient times to the present, and another showcasing incredible terracotta sculptures. Here, you’ll find miniature terracotta replicas of world-famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Statue of Liberty, and Sydney Opera House, all crafted by local artisans. The museum also provides a wonderful hands-on opportunity to try your hand at the potter's wheel and create your own souvenir. The true highlight is witnessing the incredible skill of the local artisans, who have passed down their techniques through generations, making it a perfect family-friendly outing.

The Thanh Ha Terracotta Park celebrates centuries-old pottery traditions with unique terracotta artworks and hands-on experiences

4. Hoi An Museum of History & Culture

• Address: 10B Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An Ward (formerly Minh An ward, Hoi An city, Quang Nam province), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM (closed on the 20th each month)
• Ticket price: 120,000 VND (~$4.60) (foreign adults & children above 15)

For a comprehensive overview of Hoi An’s incredible journey through time, the Hoi An Museum of History & Culture is the perfect starting point. Housed in the former Quan Am Pagoda, this museum provides a sweeping narrative of the town's development from its ancient roots to its modern identity. The exhibits are chronologically arranged, walking you through different historical periods. You’ll find a diverse array of artifacts, including rare Cham sculptures, elegant ceramics from the trading era, and documents related to the town's governance. One of the most significant sections is dedicated to Hoi An's recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This museum effectively ties together the stories told in the more specialized museums, providing essential context on how the Sa Huynh, Champa, and later Vietnamese cultures converged to create the unique character of Hoi An. It is an essential visit for first-time explorers of the town.

The Hoi An Museum of History & Culture presents the rich historical journey and cultural development of Hoi An

5. Museum of Folklore

• Address: 33 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street or 62 Bach Dang Street, Hoi An Ward (formerly Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 21:30 PM
• Ticket price: 120,000 VND (~$4.60) (foreign adults & children above 15)

The Museum of Folklore in Hoi An offers a vibrant look into the soul of the ancient town, focusing on its intangible cultural heritage. Located in the largest and most beautiful old house in Hoi An, this museum showcases the traditions, beliefs, and daily life that have shaped the local community for centuries. The exhibits are rich and colorful, featuring traditional costumes, tools used in fishing and farming, and items related to local festivals and rituals. What makes this museum special is its focus on the "living" culture of Hoi An. You'll learn about the arts and crafts that are still practiced today, such as lantern making and embroidery. The highlight of the museum is the collection related to folk performances and beliefs, which helps visitors understand the spiritual heart of the community. With entrances on two different streets, it's an easily accessible and deeply insightful stop on your tour of the Ancient Town.

The Museum of Folklore offers a colorful look into Hoi An’s traditions, festivals, and local culture

6. Museum of Traditional Medicine

• Address: 46 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, Hoi An Ward (formerly Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Ticket price: 120,000 VND (~$4.60) (foreign adults & children above 15)

Step into the serene and fragrant world of the Museum of Traditional Medicine, a hidden gem that reveals a different side of Hoi An's history. For centuries, the town was a key trading post not only for ceramics and silks but also for medicinal herbs and remedies from across Asia. This museum, housed in a beautifully preserved building, documents the rich history of traditional Vietnamese and Chinese medicine in the region. Inside, you can explore displays of various medicinal herbs, roots, and barks, and learn about their traditional uses. The exhibits feature antique tools for preparing medicines, including grinders, cutters, and pots, as well as ancient medical texts. The museum offers a fascinating look at the holistic healing philosophies that have been practiced here for generations. It’s a quiet, educational, and refreshingly unique experience that provides a peaceful break from the bustling streets outside.

The Museum of Traditional Medicine explores the history of traditional healing practices and medicinal heritage in Vietnam

7. Museum of Local Products

• Address: 57 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An Ward (formerly Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 7:30 AM - 7:00 PM
• Ticket price: 120,000 VND (~$4.60) (foreign adults & children above 15)

The Museum of Local Products offers a unique and engaging window into the commercial and agricultural lifeblood of Hoi An and the surrounding Quang Nam Province. While smaller than some other museums, it provides a fascinating, focused look at the goods that have sustained the local economy for centuries. The displays showcase a variety of renowned regional items, including aromatic cinnamon from Tra My, prized bird's nest soup from the Cham Islands, and potent ginseng from Ngoc Linh Mountain. This museum is less about ancient history and more about the living, breathing commerce that defines the area. It doubles as a high-quality showroom, allowing visitors to see, learn about, and even purchase authentic local specialties. It’s the perfect place to understand what makes the region’s produce so special and to find a meaningful souvenir that directly supports local producers. The split opening hours are typical for smaller local businesses in Vietnam.

The Museum of Local Products introduces the famous regional products and commercial traditions of Quang Nam

8. Hoi An Photography Museum (Precious Heritage)

• Address: 26 Phan Boi Chau Street, Hoi An Ward (formerly Son Phong Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Ticket price: Free

The Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum is an absolute must-visit and one of the most moving cultural experiences in Hoi An. Created by the acclaimed French photographer Rehahn, this gallery is a stunning tribute to the rich cultural diversity of Vietnam's 54 ethnic groups. The museum showcases hundreds of powerful portraits, each capturing the spirit and dignity of its subject. Alongside the photographs, you’ll find a remarkable collection of traditional costumes, artifacts, and personal stories that Rehahn has collected over years of traveling to remote corners of the country. The entire museum is a passion project with a powerful mission: to preserve and share the heritage of these often-overlooked communities. What makes this place even more special is that entry is completely free, as the artist’s goal is purely to share his work and the stories of the Vietnamese people with the world. It’s an unforgettable and deeply human experience.

The Precious Heritage Art Gallery Museum showcases powerful portraits and stories celebrating Vietnam’s ethnic diversity

9. Hoi An Silk Museum

• Address: 28 Nguyen Tat Thanh Street, Hoi An Tay Ward (formerly Tan An ward, Hoi An, Quang Nam), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM
• Ticket price: 100,000 VND (~$3.83) (adult)

The Hoi An Silk Museum offers a complete and fascinating journey into one of Vietnam's most famous crafts. Located just outside the Ancient Town, this museum tells the story of silk from start to finish. The experience begins in the lush garden, where you can see mulberry trees and learn about the process of raising silkworms. Inside, you'll witness the traditional methods of silk production, from cocoon harvesting and unraveling the delicate threads to weaving the lustrous fabric on traditional wooden looms. The museum houses an impressive collection of antique looms and showcases a variety of silk garments from different historical periods and ethnic groups across Vietnam. One of the best parts of the visit is seeing the artisans at work, demonstrating the immense skill required for this ancient craft. It’s an educational and interactive experience that gives you a new appreciation for every silk scarf and lantern you see in Hoi An.

The Hoi An Silk Museum reveals the journey of silk production from silkworm cultivation to traditional weaving

10. Museum of Cham Island Marine Park

• Address: Cham Island, Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Ticket price: Free

For those taking a day trip to the beautiful Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham), a visit to the Museum of Cham Island Marine Park is an essential first stop. Located right near the main pier, this small museum serves as the perfect introduction to the islands' rich natural and cultural heritage. The exhibits provide valuable information about the island's unique ecosystem, which is a recognized UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve. You'll find displays on the diverse marine life, including specimens of coral, fish, and other sea creatures that inhabit the surrounding waters. The museum also touches upon the history of the islands, from their role in the ancient maritime trade route to the daily lives of the local fishing communities. Its primary goal is to educate visitors on the importance of conservation and responsible tourism, ensuring the stunning beauty of the Cham Islands is preserved for future generations. Entry is free, making it an easy and informative start to your island adventure.

The Museum of Cham Island Marine Park provides insight into the natural ecosystem and marine biodiversity of the islands

11. Museum of Sa Huynh & Champa Culture

• Address: Duy Xuyen Commune (formerly Duy Son Commune, Duy Xuyen District, Quang Nam), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Ticket price: Free

Located in a district neighboring Hoi An, the Museum of Sa Huynh & Champa Culture offers a more focused archaeological perspective on the region's two most significant ancient civilizations. This museum is distinct from the one in Hoi An's Ancient Town and is often visited by those exploring the wider Quang Nam area. It serves as a repository for artifacts discovered at nearby archaeological excavation sites. The collection provides a deep dive into the historical continuum, showcasing items where the burial traditions of the Sa Huynh people merge with the emerging cultural influence of the Champa Kingdom. You can expect to see a compelling collection of artifacts, such as terracotta pottery, ancient tools, and early decorative statues. This is an excellent stop for history enthusiasts looking to get a more academic understanding of the cultural layers that preceded Hoi An's establishment as a trading port.

The Museum of Sa Huynh & Champa Culture features archaeological treasures from two of Central Vietnam’s oldest civilizations

12. Dien Ban Museum

• Address: 13 Hoang Dieu Street, Dien Ban Ward (formerly Vinh Dien Ward, Dien Ban Town, Quang Nam), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
• Ticket price: Free

The Dien Ban Museum is a local institution dedicated to preserving the specific history and heritage of the Dien Ban area, a historically significant region adjacent to Hoi An. This museum offers a different perspective from those in the Ancient Town, focusing more on the modern history of Vietnam, particularly its revolutionary struggles and local heroes. The exhibits chronicle the region's development, with a significant portion dedicated to the resistance against French colonialists and American forces during the Vietnam War. Inside, you'll find a collection of historical documents, photographs, and personal effects of soldiers and revolutionary figures. It also celebrates the cultural achievements and notable people from the Dien Ban District. This museum provides a powerful and humbling look at the resilience and patriotic spirit of the local people. For travelers interested in Vietnam's war history and looking for a non-touristy, authentic local experience, the Dien Ban Museum is a revealing and important visit.

The Dien Ban Museum highlights local history, cultural heritage, and the resilience of the region’s people

The museums in Hoi An offer far more than historical displays. They reveal the town’s transformation from an ancient settlement into one of Southeast Asia’s most important trading ports through collections of Sa Huynh artifacts, Champa relics, folk traditions, ceramics, silk weaving, and local cultural heritage. While many museums are conveniently located within the Ancient Town, others provide a great opportunity to explore nearby craft villages, countryside areas, and island communities around Hoi An. After visiting these cultural landmarks, joining local Hoi An tours is another excellent way to experience the region more deeply, from traditional villages and food experiences to river life and surrounding historical sites. For more travel inspiration and local guides across Vietnam, explore more with GTrip.