Walking into Hoi An Ancient Town feels like going back in time, and the Phung Hung Ancient House shows that feeling perfectly. This old home isn’t just a building, it’s a part of Hoi An’s rich trading history and cultural mix. I still remember the first time I saw its wooden front; it made me want to learn everything about it.
In this guide, Hura Cars will share the story behind this National Historical and Cultural Monument, explain its beautiful blended architecture, and give you some simple travel tips to make your visit even better.
History and Significance of Phung Hung Ancient House
If you’re like me, you love places that tell a story, and the Phung Hung Old House has an amazing one. I found out that this beautiful old home was built in 1780 by a Vietnamese merchant during Hoi An’s busiest trading years. Just imagine all the goods that once moved through these doors. It really shows how important Hoi An was for trade in the region.
The name Phung Hung means “Prosperity”, which instantly caught my attention. It reflects the merchant’s dreams for success and happiness for his family. The house was once a shop selling local goods like cinnamon, pepper, salt, ceramics, glassware, and silk.
Standing inside, I could easily picture merchants bargaining and customers admiring the colorful displays. Even now, you can still feel that spirit of trade and culture inside the house.
What makes it special isn’t just its age. The Phung Hung Old House was officially recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Monument in 1993, highlighting its role in Vietnam’s heritage. I was deeply moved to learn that it’s still cared for by the eighth generation of the original merchant’s family. It’s not a cold, government-run museum but a living family home.
When a family member shared stories about their ancestors, I could feel the connection between past and present. It felt like being part of a living piece of history.
Architectural Fusion: Japanese, Chinese, and Vietnamese Influences
Ground Floor Layout
When I first stepped inside, I was amazed by how balanced and practical the design felt. The façade has a large main door with two smaller side doors. Above them are the iconic “god-eye” windows (Mon Than). These windows are a special feature in Hoi An and are believed to protect the home from evil. The outer section of the house used to be a lively shop. Now it serves as a quiet reception area for visitors.
Walking deeper inside, I noticed a horizontal lacquered board and ancient couplets along the walls. The high ceiling makes the living room feel open and full of natural light. I could almost picture the stacks of cinnamon, pepper, salt, ceramics, glassware, and silk that were once traded here. It felt like stepping back in time.
Upper Floor Structure
The second floor is just as impressive. It is supported by 80 strong ironwood columns that have stood for centuries. The roof is built in Japanese style and spreads outward to improve air circulation. This helps keep the house cool in Hoi An’s warm and humid climate.
The upper floor has two main areas. One is the family’s private living quarters. The other is a worship space with altars for ancestors and Thien Hau Thanh Mau, the goddess of the sea. Seeing the family maintain these spiritual traditions made the visit feel very personal.
The balcony on the front of the second floor is stunning. It has a shell-shaped ceiling inspired by Chinese architecture. The carp carvings on the beams caught my attention. They are not just decorations. They represent prosperity in Vietnam, luck in Chinese culture, and authority in Japan. I had to look closely to see all the details. Each carving and design tells a story about Hoi An’s culture and history.
Every corner of the Phung Hung Old House feels like a small window into the past. It is more than just architecture. It is living history. Walking through it, I felt a strong connection to the people who built it and the life they led centuries ago.
Plan Your Visit: Location, Hours, and Essential Tips
If you’re planning on experiencing this yourself, here is the essential information you need. Phung Hung Old House is located at 4 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, right in the heart of the beautiful Hoi An Ancient Town.
Where to Find the House
It’s incredibly easy to find. The house is next to the iconic Japanese Bridge. You can stroll right across the bridge, and the house’s entrance is virtually right there. This proximity makes it a seamless stop when you’re exploring the area.
Visitor Information
Make sure you plan your day around these times:
- Operating Hours: 8 am – 6 pm daily.
- Entrance Requirements: To visit the house, you’ll first need to buy an entrance ticket for the Hoi An Ancient Town. The ticket price is 120,000 VND. The ticket covers several attractions, so you get great value!
Getting There
Getting to Hoi An usually means traveling to Da Nang City first, whether by plane, coach, or train. From Da Nang, it’s just a short 50-minute drive, easily done via shuttle service or a ride-hailing app. Contact us via Whatsapp number at +84 934899900 to get a private car to transfer from Da Nang to Hoi An easily.
Once you’re in Hoi An, the town is compact enough that Visitors can explore via Bicycle, on foot, or by a relaxing cyclo ride. I personally recommend walking so you don’t miss any of the charming little details!
What to See Nearby: Completing Your Hoi An Ancient Town Tour
After spending time inside the house, you’ll naturally want to see more of the ancient port. The great thing about Hoi An is that everything is a short walk away.
- The Japanese Bridge: This iconic structure is right on the doorstep of Phung Hung and is a must-see. Its design is another example of the city’s unique blend of cultures.
- Other Old Houses: If you’re interested in comparing architectural styles, check out nearby residences like Tan Ky Old House, which is equally famous for its ornate patterns, or the Duc An Old House, a testament to Hoi An’s historical upheavals.
- Assembly Halls: Don’t miss the chance to visit the magnificent assembly halls, like the Fujian Assembly Hall and the Cantonese Assembly Hall. These vibrant halls were once critical gathering spots for merchant guilds.
The Best Time to Experience Phung Hung Ancient House
Timing your visit can significantly impact your experience.
- Ideal Seasons: I personally like visiting between January to March. The weather is generally pleasant, with mild sunshine and cooler temperatures.
- Peak Season: April to June is the dry season and also the peak tourist season. The weather is beautiful, but you’ll find more crowds.
- Seasonal Warnings: Just know that if you visit from October to December, you’re entering the rainy season. This brings infrequent sunshine and the possibility of heavy downpours or even occasional floods. I had one unfortunate example of a trip in November where I spent half the time dodging puddles, but even then, the ancient streets had a unique, misty charm!
Check out our post to get more information about Hoi An’s weather to plan a smooth trip.