Visiting the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Old Town in Vietnam offers a calm and pleasant experience, with its narrow streets lined with yellow-painted buildings, traditional lanterns, and a mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences that reflect the town’s long history as a trading port.
Vietnam: Da Nang – Marble Mountains & Monkey Mountain
For our second excursion from Hội An, we joined a small group tour heading north towards the Marble Mountains and later Monkey Mountain. It was still early when we were collected from our hotel, and the minibus slowly filled as we wound through the quiet streets of Hội An, stopping at different guesthouses. Compared with our visit to Mỹ Sơn the day before, the group felt more energetic. Most were couples from different parts of the world, and there was also a solo traveller named Chedi, originally from Nigeria and now working as a software engineer in Istanbul. He seemed genuinely pleased to be on the tour and quickly set the tone for a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. As people settled in, the soft morning chatter gradually replaced the last traces of sleepiness, and by the time we left the town limits, everyone seemed ready for a full day out.
🏞️ History and Culture of the Marble Mountains
The Marble Mountains, known locally as Ngũ Hành Sơn, form a cluster of five limestone and marble hills located in the Ngu Hanh Son District, around twenty kilometres from Hội An and only seven kilometres south of central Đà Nẵng. Their significance stretches far beyond their scenic value. Long before Vietnamese dynasties shaped the region, the Cham people viewed these karsts as spiritually important. The Cham once dominated central Vietnam and were strongly influenced by Hindu traditions, leaving behind traces of Shiva worship and other cultural elements that still appear within the caves today.
Over the centuries, Vietnamese rulers also recognised the hills as sacred places. Kings, generals, and travellers would stop to pray, meditate, or seek guidance while moving between Huế and Đà Nẵng. In 1825, King Minh Mạng assigned the collective name based on the five natural elements believed to make up the world: Kim (metal), Thủy (water), Mộc (wood), Hỏa (fire), and Thổ (earth). Temples, shrines, and sculptures were added throughout the Nguyễn Dynasty, deepening the site’s religious landscape. Although five mountains exist, only Thủy Sơn is open to visitors today, and it remains the tallest and most accessible. It is rich in pagodas, viewpoints, deep caves, and shrines, making it the centrepiece for anyone exploring the area.
Exploring Thủy Sơn
🚶♂️ Beginning the Climb
When we arrived at the base, our guide gathered us together for a short briefing. There were two ways up: a long staircase or a modern elevator. With a cheerful smile, he reminded us that our route involved “a lot of steps”. The stone stairs, made from marble and still damp from the earlier rain, glistened slightly and needed careful footing. We climbed slowly, staying close to the handrails where they existed. The air was cool and carried a faint scent of incense drifting down from the shrines above.
🛕 Linh Ứng Pagoda
Our first major stop was Linh Ứng Pagoda, standing at the top of the initial climb. A ten-metre Buddha statue dominated the interior, surrounded by altars to Lady Buddha Bodhisattva and Bodhisattva Địa Tạng. Inside, worshippers moved quietly from shrine to shrine, lighting incense sticks and bowing with deliberate calm. Outside the pagoda, a small path continued deeper into the mountain, with stalls selling marble carvings and souvenirs reflecting the long tradition of stone craftsmanship associated with the area.
🕯️ Tang Chon Cave
Tang Chon Cave was next. Though small, it had a gentle serenity about it. Natural light filtered through cracks overhead, casting pale beams across statues of meditating Buddhas. One section showed a weathered stone carving of a chess table, while another preserved the remnants of Cham worship dedicated to Shiva. This layering of Buddhist and Hindu influences made the cave feel like a quiet archive of shifting cultures and beliefs.
⛰️ Van Thông Cave and the Ascent to the Summit
Our trail then led to Van Thông Cave. The guide explained that a narrow exit at the back climbed up to the summit through rocky crevices. Karen hesitated because of her claustrophobia, and the guide kindly pointed out an alternative route outside the cave. She chose the easier path while the rest of us followed the guide inside. The tunnel narrowed quickly, and we had to duck and twist as we climbed towards the light above. My camera swung gently from my neck, making the ascent slightly awkward, but after a few careful manoeuvres, I reached the top. A cool breeze waited there, along with Karen, who looked relieved to have avoided the tight spaces.
🌁 Views from the Top
From the summit, Thủy Sơn opened up to a wide panorama of Đà Nẵng. The city stretched along the coastline, with tall buildings appearing faint and grey under the misty sky. Even with the dull light, the view was impressive. The sea seemed to merge with the horizon in a soft blur, and the surrounding hills framed the coastline neatly. After taking photos and catching our breath, we followed the guide back down for the next stage.
Caves, War History and Pagodas
🌌 Huyền Không Cave
Huyền Không Cave was the largest and most striking cave of the day. Its chamber felt like a natural cathedral, with shafts of sunlight entering through holes in the roof and creating bright patches on the stone floor. A three-metre Buddha stood near the centre, and two side shrines were dedicated to deities associated with health and wealth. During the Vietnam War, the cave served as a field hospital for the Viet Cong. After the area was reclaimed from American control in 1968, medical operations took place here under very difficult circumstances. Simple plaques now acknowledge this history.
🌿 Tam Thai Pagoda
Near Huyền Không stood the Tam Thai Pagoda. Its three-door gateway followed Buddhist tradition: one entrance for monks, one for women and one for men. The pagoda had endured repairs and restoration over time, but much of its original character remained. The gardens were quiet, dotted with bonsai trees, incense burners, and shaded corners where visitors paused to rest.
🔥 Am Phủ Cave
Am Phu Cave is Da Nang’s longest natural cave (300 metres), in the Vietnamese language, the name Am Phu means “the hell”. Hence it is known as ‘Hell Cave’. It is a phantasmagorical recreation of a Buddhist Hell.
Going inside the cave is an adventure into a dark, humid underworld lurking with figurines of fantastical, fear-inducing demons as well as sinners enduring gruesome punishments and altars with candles and burning incense, this cave is a colourful embodiment of Hell with an enduring message that is at the core of Buddhist belief: every deed has its consequences. The punishment of wrongdoing represents Karma, and the degree of pain one suffers depends on the severity of the sins one has committed in one’s former life.
Like Huyen Khong Cave, Am Phu Cave was used as a field hospital by the Viet Cong during the Vietnam War. There are some commemorative bas-relief sculptures on the cave’s wall to recognise the efforts of the people in their struggle against the American forces.
Monkey Mountain (Sơn Trà Mountain)
🌄 History and Culture of Monkey Mountain
Monkey Mountain, officially named Sơn Trà Mountain, rises sharply from the coastline and forms part of the Sơn Trà Peninsula. With an elevation close to 700 metres, it is covered in dense forest and is home to rare species, including the endangered red-shanked douc langur. Long before modern tourism, the area had cultural importance as a natural frontier and a spiritual place for local people.
During the Vietnam War, its position made it a strategic point for the United States military. A major radar and communications station operated here, giving American forces a wide view over the coast and the South China Sea. Soldiers informally named it “Monkey Mountain” because of the many monkeys roaming the slopes, and the name has stayed ever since. These days, it blends war history, nature, and modern religious architecture in one large peninsula.
🙏 Visit to Lady Buddha and Linh Ứng Pagoda
We were not visiting for wildlife or trekking, though monkeys sometimes appear near the tourist areas. Instead, we were here to see the huge white statue of the Goddess of Mercy, often called Lady Buddha. At sixty-seven metres tall, it is the largest Buddhist statue in Vietnam. As we arrived, the dark clouds began to lift, revealing blue patches behind the towering figure. The bright white shine of the statue against the changing sky created a strong visual contrast.
The complex surrounding Lady Buddha included peaceful gardens filled with bonsai trees shaped into precise curves, small shrines, stone paths, and statues of smiling Buddhas. From an open terrace, we had a clear view across the bay towards Đà Nẵng. The light reflected off the tall buildings, and the sea shifted slowly in wide grey patches. Nearby, the Linh Ứng Pagoda stood as the largest pagoda in Central Vietnam, with sweeping eaves and still courtyards where visitors paused quietly.
As well as the statue the grounds have many miniature trees in pots that have been trained into incredibly contorted shapes, together with some smaller statues, including a rather jolly-looking laughing Buddha and some sculptured gardens.
There is also a large platform that looks down over the sea and around the bay towards Dà Nang city.
The other big element of the complex is the Linh Ung Pagoda, which is the largest pagoda in Central Vietnam.
Planning your visit to the Marble Mountains
🏔 Planning Your Visit to the Marble and Monkey Mountains
Visiting the Marble and Monkey Mountains near Đà Nẵng offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnam’s natural beauty, spirituality, and history. Both sites are easy to reach and can be explored comfortably in a single day. Located roughly 9 kilometres south and 10 kilometres north of Đà Nẵng respectively, they make excellent day trips from both Đà Nẵng and Hội An.
📍 Location
The Marble Mountains (Ngũ Hành Sơn) are in the Ngũ Hành Sơn District, a short 20-minute drive from central Đà Nẵng or around 30 minutes from Hội An. Monkey Mountain, officially called Sơn Trà Peninsula, lies to the north of Đà Nẵng and stretches out into the South China Sea. The two areas are connected by the coastal road Trường Sa, which passes through scenic beaches and fishing villages.
🚗 Getting There
Taxis and ride-hailing services such as Grab are the most convenient ways to reach both mountains. Many visitors also hire a motorbike for the day, as the roads are well-paved and clearly signposted. If you prefer a stress-free option, small-group tours are available from Đà Nẵng or Hội An, usually including hotel pickup, a guide, and entry fees.
🧭 Getting Around
At the Marble Mountains, most visitors start at Thuy Sơn, the largest of the five peaks. You can take the lift to the middle level or climb the stone steps to reach the top. The area contains pagodas, caves, and viewpoints, all within walking distance. Good footwear and bottled water are essential, especially during warmer months.
Monkey Mountain (Sơn Trà Peninsula) is larger and best explored by motorbike or car. The winding coastal road offers panoramic views and leads to sights such as the Linh Ứng Pagoda with its towering Lady Buddha statue, the Intercontinental Resort viewpoint, and several hiking trails that cross through forested slopes where monkeys can sometimes be spotted.
🕘 Opening Hours
Marble Mountains: 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily
Monkey Mountain (Sơn Trà Peninsula): Open all day, but best visited during daylight hours for safety and views
💰 Entrance Fees
Marble Mountains Entry Fee: Around 40,000 VND per person
Elevator Fee (optional): Around 15,000 VND per ride
Monkey Mountain: Free entry
☎️ Useful Information
Marble Mountains Tourist Centre: Ngũ Hành Sơn District, Đà Nẵng
Telephone: +84 (0)236 3960 163
Email: info@marblemountains.vn
Website: www.marblemountains.vn
Sơn Trà Peninsula Visitor Information: Thọ Quang Ward, Sơn Trà District, Đà Nẵng
Telephone: +84 (0)236 3893 392
Email: visitsontra@danang.gov.vn
Website: www.sontrapeninsula.vn
⚠️ Things to Be Aware Of
Visitors should dress modestly when entering pagodas and temples, covering shoulders and knees. The steps at Marble Mountain can be steep and slippery after rain, so sturdy shoes are advised. At Monkey Mountain, be cautious when driving as the roads are winding and monkeys can appear unexpectedly. It’s also wise to bring sun protection, insect repellent, and drinking water, as facilities are limited once you leave the main viewpoints.
🌅 Final Thoughts
Planning a visit to the Marble and Monkey Mountains is straightforward, and both sites are rewarding for those interested in nature, culture, and panoramic views of central Vietnam’s coastline. Whether you explore independently or on a guided tour, the experience offers a memorable blend of tranquillity, legend, and breathtaking scenery.
Basic information about Marble Mountains
Planning your visit to visit Hoi An
📍 Location
Hoi An is a charming riverside town located on Vietnam’s central coast, about 30 kilometres south of Da Nang. It lies within Quảng Nam Province and is well-known for its beautifully preserved Ancient Town, which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town sits on the Thu Bon River and is only a few kilometres from the South China Sea, making it an ideal base for exploring both historical and coastal attractions. Its compact size means most of the main sights, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, the market, and the riverside cafés, are all within easy reach on foot.
✈️ Getting There
The nearest airport to Hoi An is Da Nang International Airport, which connects the region with major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, and Singapore. From Da Nang, it takes about 45 minutes to reach Hoi An by car or shuttle bus. Taxis and private transfers are widely available at the airport and can be pre-booked for convenience. Trains also run to Da Nang from most major Vietnamese cities, and onward connections by bus or taxi make the final leg of the journey simple. For travellers coming from nearby beach resorts like An Bang or Cua Dai, local taxis or even bicycles are a pleasant way to travel.
🚲 Getting Around
Hoi An is a town best explored at a relaxed pace. Most of the Old Town is pedestrianised during the day, making walking the easiest and most enjoyable option. Bicycles are widely available for hire from hotels and guesthouses and are perfect for exploring the countryside or nearby beaches. For longer distances, small electric shuttles and taxis operate throughout the area. Motorbike hire is also common, but it is not necessary unless you plan to travel further afield. Boats offer a peaceful alternative, with many locals providing short trips along the Thu Bon River, particularly at sunset.
⚖️ Things to Be Aware Of
Hoi An is known for its calm and welcoming atmosphere, but it’s still important to be mindful of local customs and laws. Dress modestly when visiting temples or local homes, covering shoulders and knees. Removing your shoes before entering someone’s house or certain shops is a common courtesy. Public displays of affection are rare and can make locals uncomfortable, especially in rural areas. Vietnam has strict rules about the possession or use of drugs, and penalties are severe.
While photography is generally welcome, always ask before taking close-up pictures of people, particularly monks or workers in the market. The town is safe, but it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. During the rainy season, which typically runs from September to December, streets can flood briefly, so waterproof footwear is useful. Finally, Hoi An operates on a relaxed rhythm — shops may close for an hour or two at lunchtime, and service can be unhurried — but that’s part of its charm.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Planning a visit to Hoi An is straightforward, and the rewards are immense. Its accessible location, walkable streets, and rich blend of history and culture make it one of Vietnam’s most appealing destinations. With a little preparation and respect for local customs, visitors can easily enjoy everything from riverside dining and lantern-lit evenings to cycling through rice fields and exploring nearby beaches.
The best time to visit Hoi An
Nestled in Vietnam, Hoi An finds itself under the grasp of a Tropical Monsoon Climate, also known as the Am under the Köppen Climate Classification. The climatic conditions, marked by high temperatures and abundant rainfall, exhibit a certain amount of variation throughout the year. The temperatures hover between 19°C (66.2°F) at their lowest end in January to 33°C (91.4°F) in the peak middle months of June, July and August. The small range of fluctuation in temperatures reveals a hallmark trait of tropical domains.
🌸 Spring (February – April)
Spring is one of the most comfortable times to visit Hoi An, with mild temperatures averaging between 24°C and 30°C. The skies are mostly clear, and humidity levels are lower than at other times of the year. This makes it ideal for walking through the lantern-lit streets, cycling to nearby rice fields, or taking boat trips on the Thu Bon River. The town is full of colour as flowers bloom, and local festivals begin to appear on the calendar. It’s also a pleasant time to visit nearby attractions like the Marble Mountains or My Son Sanctuary without the intense summer heat.
Packing tips: Lightweight clothing such as cotton shirts, shorts, and dresses; a light jumper for cooler evenings; sun hat, sunglasses, and good walking shoes.
☀️ Summer (May – August)
Summer brings hotter and more humid weather, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C in the middle of the day. It’s the peak season for beach lovers, with calm seas and bright sunshine along Cua Dai and An Bang beaches. However, the heat can make midday exploring quite tiring, so early morning or late afternoon walks are best. Despite the warmth, this is when the water is clearest for snorkelling and diving trips to the Cham Islands.
Packing tips: Breathable, light fabrics; a strong sunscreen; swimsuit; sandals; a reusable water bottle; and a light raincoat or umbrella for short tropical showers.
🌧 Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is a transitional period when the monsoon season begins. While September often stays warm and pleasant, October and November can bring heavy rain and occasional flooding, particularly in the Ancient Town area. Despite the weather, this is when Hoi An’s countryside turns lush and green, and the tourist crowds thin out considerably. Photographers often love this season for its dramatic skies and reflections on the wet streets.
Packing tips: Quick-drying clothes, waterproof jacket, sturdy sandals or shoes suitable for wet ground, and a dry bag to protect valuables.
🍃 Winter (December – January)
Winter in Hoi An is cooler and less humid, with average temperatures around 20°C–25°C. The skies are mostly grey, and there’s occasional drizzle, but it remains a comfortable time to wander around the town and visit temples, museums, and cafés. The beach is quieter, and swimming conditions are less ideal due to rougher seas. However, the cooler air makes sightseeing far more relaxed than during the summer.
Packing tips: Light layers, a thin jumper or light jacket, comfortable shoes, and a travel umbrella for drizzly days.
📊 Summary Chart
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Weather Highlights | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | Feb – Apr | 24°C – 30°C | Mild, dry, colourful | Sightseeing, cycling, festivals |
| ☀️ Summer | May – Aug | 28°C – 35°C | Hot, sunny, humid | Beaches, water sports, Cham Islands |
| 🌧 Autumn | Sep – Nov | 25°C – 32°C | Rainy, occasional floods | Photography, fewer crowds |
| 🍃 Winter | Dec – Jan | 20°C – 25°C | Cool, cloudy, light rain | Walking, culture, cafés |
🌞 Overall Best Time to Visit
The best overall time to visit Hoi An is from February to April, when the weather is pleasantly warm, rainfall is minimal, and the countryside is full of life. It’s perfect for exploring the Ancient Town, cycling through rice fields, or taking a lantern-lit boat trip without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rain.
Planning your visit to visit Hoi An
📍 Location
Hoi An is a charming riverside town located on Vietnam’s central coast, about 30 kilometres south of Da Nang. It lies within Quảng Nam Province and is well-known for its beautifully preserved Ancient Town, which is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The town sits on the Thu Bon River and is only a few kilometres from the South China Sea, making it an ideal base for exploring both historical and coastal attractions. Its compact size means most of the main sights, including the Japanese Covered Bridge, the market, and the riverside cafés, are all within easy reach on foot.
✈️ Getting There
The nearest airport to Hoi An is Da Nang International Airport, which connects the region with major cities such as Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, Bangkok, and Singapore. From Da Nang, it takes about 45 minutes to reach Hoi An by car or shuttle bus. Taxis and private transfers are widely available at the airport and can be pre-booked for convenience. Trains also run to Da Nang from most major Vietnamese cities, and onward connections by bus or taxi make the final leg of the journey simple. For travellers coming from nearby beach resorts like An Bang or Cua Dai, local taxis or even bicycles are a pleasant way to travel.
🚲 Getting Around
Hoi An is a town best explored at a relaxed pace. Most of the Old Town is pedestrianised during the day, making walking the easiest and most enjoyable option. Bicycles are widely available for hire from hotels and guesthouses and are perfect for exploring the countryside or nearby beaches. For longer distances, small electric shuttles and taxis operate throughout the area. Motorbike hire is also common, but it is not necessary unless you plan to travel further afield. Boats offer a peaceful alternative, with many locals providing short trips along the Thu Bon River, particularly at sunset.
⚖️ Things to Be Aware Of
Hoi An is known for its calm and welcoming atmosphere, but it’s still important to be mindful of local customs and laws. Dress modestly when visiting temples or local homes, covering shoulders and knees. Removing your shoes before entering someone’s house or certain shops is a common courtesy. Public displays of affection are rare and can make locals uncomfortable, especially in rural areas. Vietnam has strict rules about the possession or use of drugs, and penalties are severe.
While photography is generally welcome, always ask before taking close-up pictures of people, particularly monks or workers in the market. The town is safe, but it’s wise to keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas. During the rainy season, which typically runs from September to December, streets can flood briefly, so waterproof footwear is useful. Finally, Hoi An operates on a relaxed rhythm — shops may close for an hour or two at lunchtime, and service can be unhurried — but that’s part of its charm.
🌿 Final Thoughts
Planning a visit to Hoi An is straightforward, and the rewards are immense. Its accessible location, walkable streets, and rich blend of history and culture make it one of Vietnam’s most appealing destinations. With a little preparation and respect for local customs, visitors can easily enjoy everything from riverside dining and lantern-lit evenings to cycling through rice fields and exploring nearby beaches.
The best time to visit Hoi An
Nestled in Vietnam, Hoi An finds itself under the grasp of a Tropical Monsoon Climate, also known as the Am under the Köppen Climate Classification. The climatic conditions, marked by high temperatures and abundant rainfall, exhibit a certain amount of variation throughout the year. The temperatures hover between 19°C (66.2°F) at their lowest end in January to 33°C (91.4°F) in the peak middle months of June, July and August. The small range of fluctuation in temperatures reveals a hallmark trait of tropical domains.
🌸 Spring (February – April)
Spring is one of the most comfortable times to visit Hoi An, with mild temperatures averaging between 24°C and 30°C. The skies are mostly clear, and humidity levels are lower than at other times of the year. This makes it ideal for walking through the lantern-lit streets, cycling to nearby rice fields, or taking boat trips on the Thu Bon River. The town is full of colour as flowers bloom, and local festivals begin to appear on the calendar. It’s also a pleasant time to visit nearby attractions like the Marble Mountains or My Son Sanctuary without the intense summer heat.
Packing tips: Lightweight clothing such as cotton shirts, shorts, and dresses; a light jumper for cooler evenings; sun hat, sunglasses, and good walking shoes.
☀️ Summer (May – August)
Summer brings hotter and more humid weather, with temperatures reaching up to 35°C in the middle of the day. It’s the peak season for beach lovers, with calm seas and bright sunshine along Cua Dai and An Bang beaches. However, the heat can make midday exploring quite tiring, so early morning or late afternoon walks are best. Despite the warmth, this is when the water is clearest for snorkelling and diving trips to the Cham Islands.
Packing tips: Breathable, light fabrics; a strong sunscreen; swimsuit; sandals; a reusable water bottle; and a light raincoat or umbrella for short tropical showers.
🌧 Autumn (September – November)
Autumn is a transitional period when the monsoon season begins. While September often stays warm and pleasant, October and November can bring heavy rain and occasional flooding, particularly in the Ancient Town area. Despite the weather, this is when Hoi An’s countryside turns lush and green, and the tourist crowds thin out considerably. Photographers often love this season for its dramatic skies and reflections on the wet streets.
Packing tips: Quick-drying clothes, waterproof jacket, sturdy sandals or shoes suitable for wet ground, and a dry bag to protect valuables.
🍃 Winter (December – January)
Winter in Hoi An is cooler and less humid, with average temperatures around 20°C–25°C. The skies are mostly grey, and there’s occasional drizzle, but it remains a comfortable time to wander around the town and visit temples, museums, and cafés. The beach is quieter, and swimming conditions are less ideal due to rougher seas. However, the cooler air makes sightseeing far more relaxed than during the summer.
Packing tips: Light layers, a thin jumper or light jacket, comfortable shoes, and a travel umbrella for drizzly days.
📊 Summary Chart
| Season | Months | Temperature Range | Weather Highlights | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 🌸 Spring | Feb – Apr | 24°C – 30°C | Mild, dry, colourful | Sightseeing, cycling, festivals |
| ☀️ Summer | May – Aug | 28°C – 35°C | Hot, sunny, humid | Beaches, water sports, Cham Islands |
| 🌧 Autumn | Sep – Nov | 25°C – 32°C | Rainy, occasional floods | Photography, fewer crowds |
| 🍃 Winter | Dec – Jan | 20°C – 25°C | Cool, cloudy, light rain | Walking, culture, cafés |
🌞 Overall Best Time to Visit
The best overall time to visit Hoi An is from February to April, when the weather is pleasantly warm, rainfall is minimal, and the countryside is full of life. It’s perfect for exploring the Ancient Town, cycling through rice fields, or taking a lantern-lit boat trip without the discomfort of extreme heat or heavy rain.
More to Explore
