If you’re planning a trip to Ancient Town, get ready for something special. There are plenty of eco-friendly activities in Hoi An that let you explore, relax, and give back at the same time. Picture yourself cycling through peaceful rice fields, joining a river clean-up, or crafting with local artisans. I’ve experienced it all, and trust me, traveling this way makes every moment feel more meaningful. Let’s dive into how you can enjoy this charming town while keeping it green and full of life.
If you want a deeper look at local experiences, check out my detailed insider’s guide to exploring Hoi An sustainably.
Explore Local Eco Initiatives and Green Spaces
Refillables Hoi An – Reduce Plastic, Reuse, Refill
One of my favorite stops in town is Refillables Hoi An, Central Vietnam’s first refillable concept store. The store’s mission is simple yet powerful – to help locals and travelers reduce single-use plastics. Located in Thanh Dong, Hamlet 5, it’s open every day except Sunday from 9AM to 4:30PM.
They sell affordable, eco-friendly home and personal care products – from handmade soaps to grains and natural cleaning supplies. I once refilled my shampoo bottle there and ended up spending an hour chatting with the friendly owner about how “Refill Not Landfill” became their motto.
What I love most is The Carousel, the charity shop upstairs. Locals donate gently used clothes and household items, which are sold to raise money for community projects. It’s a small step that cuts down textile waste and supports good causes.
Hoi An Eco Hub – Learn and Connect with Nature
Another must-visit place is Hoi An Eco Hub, located along the peaceful riverbanks of Cẩm Kim. It’s more than a green garden – it’s a center for sustainability education. They host workshops on composting, turning used cooking oil into soap, upcycling clothes, and even making natural enzymes.
When I joined a composting workshop, I felt the strong community spirit. Locals, expats, and travelers sat side by side, learning how to make simple changes that matter. The Eco Hub truly represents how Hoi An promotes green tourism through action, not just words.
Support Local Artisans and Sustainable Crafts
Reaching Out Arts & Crafts
If you’re passionate about supporting inclusive and ethical businesses, visit Reaching Out Arts & Crafts. Founded in 2000, this fair-trade shop provides employment to people with disabilities, empowering them to live independently.
Inside, you’ll find beautiful handmade souvenirs – pottery, jewelry, patchwork quilts, and candle holders — each crafted with care. I bought a delicate ceramic cup as a keepsake, and every time I use it, it reminds me of the artistry behind sustainable living.
Woodart Vietnam – Traditional Wood Carving Experience
For a hands-on cultural activity, I joined a wood carving workshop at Woodart Vietnam. Here, local artisans teach traditional techniques passed down for generations. Using natural materials, they preserve cultural heritage while promoting sustainable craftsmanship.
The workshop was a fun and eye-opening experience. I left with a small wooden carving and a new appreciation for Vietnamese artistry.
Join Eco-Friendly Clean-Up Programs and Volunteer Events
Trash Hero Hoi An
If you’ve got a few hours to spare, why not join Trash Hero Hoi An? This community clean-up project gathers volunteers weekly to collect waste and raise awareness. I once joined their morning session, and it felt great to be part of a global movement that believes every small action can make a big change.
River Clean-Up by Hoi An Kayak Tours
Every Saturday, Hoi An Kayak Tours hosts a River Clean-Up along the Thu Bon River. Volunteers, locals, and tourists paddle together, collecting floating trash and learning about river ecology. It’s a perfect mix of adventure and environmental care — plus, you get to see the town from a whole new angle.
Discover Hoi An’s Villages Through Sustainable Tours
Tra Que Vegetable Village – Learn Organic Farming
At Tra Que Vegetable Village, local farmers still use ancient methods to grow organic vegetables. During my visit, I helped plant herbs and learned about the village’s composting system. The farmers explained how Tra Que practices organic farming, keeping their soil fertile and water clean.
It’s a peaceful way to spend a morning, and the farm-to-table lunch afterward was one of the freshest meals I’ve ever had.
Cam Thanh Coconut Forest – Eco Basket Boat Adventure
Cam Thanh Coconut Forest, also known as the “Green Bay of Hoi An,” offers eco basket boat tours through lush mangrove canals. The local guides, many of whom grew up here, share stories about protecting the water coconut ecosystem.
Gliding through the water in a round basket boat, I could hear nothing but the rustle of palms and the calls of distant birds — a truly serene experience.
Kim Bong Carpentry Village – Heritage Craftsmanship
If you appreciate traditional artistry, Kim Bong Carpentry Village is the place to be. Known for shipbuilding and woodwork, this village keeps centuries-old skills alive. Watching artisans carve intricate details by hand reminded me how much pride they take in their craft.
Every purchase supports the preservation of these traditions and helps sustain local livelihoods.
Choose Sustainable Transportation Options
Hoi An is compact, making cycling the perfect way to explore. Many hotels offer free bike rentals, and electric bikes are easy to find. When I cycled through Cam Kim and Tra Que, I enjoyed the fresh air and the sight of buffalos grazing near the rice fields.
Cycling produces zero emissions, helps reduce traffic, and lets you slow down to truly absorb the charm of this town. Plus, you’ll find plenty of scenic routes leading to Cua Dai Beach or even the adventurous Hai Van Pass for experienced riders.
Stay at Eco-Friendly Hotels and Green Accommodations
More hotels in Hoi An are turning toward sustainability. These eco-friendly hotels focus on energy saving, water conservation, and waste reduction. By staying at one, you’re supporting the city’s commitment to responsible tourism.
I stayed at a resort with a bamboo-inspired design, natural ventilation, and locally sourced furniture. The experience was not only relaxing but also reassuring — knowing my stay made a small, positive impact on the environment.
Here are some eco-friendly hotels in Hoi An you can mention in your article:
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Little Gem – An Eco-Friendly Boutique Hotel & Spa
- Address: 114 Tran Nhan Tong, Cam Chau, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam
- This hotel offers free bicycles, solar heating, and refillable amenities.
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Little Oasis – An Eco-Friendly Hotel & Spa
- Address: Do River area, near Hoi An Ancient Town
- Little Oasis is surrounded by rice fields, provides electric shuttle and recycling programs.
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Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai
- Address: Hamlet 1, Dien Duong Village, Dien Ban District, Quang Nam
- The resort focuses on sustainable luxury: energy efficiency, zero-plastic policy, organic garden.
Practice Simple Green Habits During Your Visit
During your trip, small acts can make a big difference. Here are some easy ways to stay green:
- Bring a reusable bottle and fabric bag
- Avoid buying single-use plastics
- Eat at local restaurants that use fresh, local ingredients
- Respect cultural sites and natural areas
As a traveler, I remind myself of the saying: “Take only pictures, leave only footprints.” It’s a mindset that helps preserve the magic of Hoi An.