When I first stepped inside Tan Ky Old House Hoi An, I could feel the peaceful rhythm of time still echoing through its wooden walls. Located at 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street in the heart of Hoi An Ancient Town, this 18th-century treasure is one of the most beautiful and well-preserved old houses in Vietnam. Even though it was built in 1741, the house still shines with elegance and harmony – a perfect symbol of the town’s blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese cultures.
If you’re planning your trip, this guide will help you understand everything about Tan Ky Old House – from its history, architecture, and artifacts, to practical tips and nearby attractions you shouldn’t miss.
Overview and History of Tan Ky Old House Hoi An
When I first stepped into Tan Ky Old House, I immediately felt the charm of Hoi An’s past still alive in every corner. Located at 101 Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, this ancient home has stood proudly since 1741, right in the center of the Ancient Town.
It was built by the Le family, who have lived here for seven generations. The name “Tan Ky” came from Le Tan Ky, the second generation, who turned it into a trading house for agricultural goods. At that time, Hoi An was one of Asia’s busiest ports, and the house’s location was ideal. The front faced Nguyen Thai Hoc Street, perfect for welcoming customers, while the back opened to Bach Dang Street and the Hoai River, where boats arrived to trade.
Though the house has faced several floods, including a severe one in 1964, it still stands strong today. Recognized by the Ministry of Culture and Information in 1985 as a “Cultural Work,” Tan Ky remains a precious part of Vietnam’s history. What I find most special is that it’s still a living home. The warmth of family life blends beautifully with the scent of old wood and timeworn antiques, making it feel alive, not frozen in history.
Architectural Style and Design Features
The architecture of the Old House of Tan Ky is truly unique. It combines the elegance of Japanese design, the ornamentation of Chinese style, and the simplicity of Vietnamese tradition. The structure follows the tubular layout common in Hoi An, with a long narrow shape and an open atrium that lets sunlight and air flow naturally.
There are two overlapping columns, symbolizing the connection between heaven and humans, and five vertical pillars, representing the five natural elements — wood, fire, earth, metal, and water.
What I loved most is that the house was built without a single nail, using interlocking wooden joints crafted by artisans from Kim Bong Carpentry Village. The wood came from local forests, the stones from Thanh Hoa Province, and the tiles from Bat Trang Village. This combination makes the house cool in summer and warm in winter.
Every carving, beam, and tile seems to carry a story. As I walked through, I couldn’t help but admire how gracefully the design balances beauty, function, and meaning — just like the harmony of Hoi An itself.
Inside Tan Ky Old House – Artifacts and Highlights
Inside the house, every corner reflects centuries of culture. The living room showcases precious antiques, including shiny black beds, vases, and wooden cabinets carved with delicate patterns.
Among them, the most remarkable pieces are:
- Confucius Bowl: A rare artifact symbolizing balance and self-control. It’s meant to remind people to stay calm and avoid extremes in life.
- Bách Điểu (Hundred Birds) lacquered board: This masterpiece features 100 Chinese characters, each shaped like a flying bird—a truly one-of-a-kind work in Vietnam.
- Sailboat models: Representing Hoi An’s vibrant port life from 400 years ago.
- Le Tan Ky Stele: Tells the story of a man who rose from poverty to fame through hard work and kindness.
The exhibition area displays model sailboats that represent the golden era of Hoi An’s port. There’s also a section where tourists from around the world leave visiting cards — a charming tradition connecting travelers across generations.
Personally, I found this mix of history and humanity heartwarming. It’s not a museum — it’s a living memory.
Cultural and Philosophical Meanings
Beyond its visual beauty, the Old House carries deep philosophical values rooted in Eastern culture. The structure, patterns, and even its spatial balance express Oriental philosophy about harmony between humans and nature.
The lacquered inscriptions inside teach timeless lessons about kindness, humility, and moral virtue. The Le Tan Ky Stele, written by the house’s founder, tells the inspiring story of a poor orphan named Cong, who rose through self-discipline and kindness to earn respect from his community.
Reading that story while standing in the same room where it was written gave me chills. It reminded me that every beam and pillar here holds not just beauty, but wisdom passed through generations.
Visiting Experience and Practical Information
Getting to the Old House is easy. From the Japanese Covered Bridge, you can stroll along Bach Dang Street and turn onto Nguyen Thai Hoc Street — it’s only a short walk.
- Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 5:45 PM daily
- Entrance Fee: 30,000 VND per foreign visitor
If you plan to visit, here are a few tips:
- Best time to go: Between February and April, when Hoi An is dry and glowing with golden light.
- Dress properly: The site values tradition, so avoid wearing shorts or revealing clothes.
- Buy souvenirs: Inside, there’s a small shop with handmade gifts and local items.
- Take your time: The house may be small, but every detail deserves attention.
After exploring Tan Ky, I suggest checking this detailed travel guide to explore more local gems around the ancient town. It helped me plan my route more efficiently and find peaceful corners often missed by large groups.
Nearby Attractions to Explore in Hoi An
Hoi An is filled with charm, and Tan Ky Old House sits right in its heart. Here are some nearby places you can easily visit:
- Japanese Covered Bridge – a historic symbol of cultural fusion between Japan and Vietnam.
- Kim Bong Carpentry Village – home of the artisans who built Tan Ky Old House.
- Hoi An Ancient Town – a UNESCO World Heritage site full of lantern-lit streets and tea houses.
- Hoai River – perfect for sunset walks and evening boat rides.
Each place complements the other, giving you a full picture of how life once flourished here.
Why Old House of Tan Ky Is a Must-See in Hoi An
After visiting many old houses in Hoi An, I can confidently say that Tan Ky stands out. It’s not just about its age or beauty, but the feeling it gives — like time slows down inside its walls.
The way it connects architecture, philosophy, and daily life makes it more than a tourist stop; it’s a reflection of Vietnamese spirit and resilience.
When you visit Hoi An, don’t just pass by. Step inside Tan Ky House, breathe in the scent of old wood, and imagine the merchants who once traded goods here centuries ago. You’ll understand why this place remains one of Vietnam’s most beloved cultural treasures.