Located on Nguyen Thai Hoc Street – the very heart of the Hoi An Ancient Quarter – Tan Ky Ancient House is one of the most exemplary heritage dwellings preserved almost entirely in its original state. More than two centuries have passed, yet the house retains its timeless charm, reflecting the prosperity of Hoi An’s historic trading life and the traditional lifestyle of an old merchant family.
WHEN KIM BONG CRAFTSMANSHIP CREATES A MASTERPIECE
Tan Ky Ancient House was built in the late 18th century, at the height of Hoi An’s flourishing international port. Its owner was a seafaring merchant who traded along regional maritime routes, embodying the bustling commercial spirit of the old town.
The house was constructed from precious woods such as jackfruit, ironwood, and kiền kiền, with material selection and preparation taking several years. Master carpenters from Kim Bong carpentry village were commissioned to craft, carve, and refine every detail with exceptional skill, resulting in a durable structure that encapsulates the traditional craftsmanship and distinctive architectural aesthetics of the ancient town.
Across seven generations, the family has preserved both the physical structure and the living space, alongside professional restorations conducted by local heritage authorities. Thanks to this devoted stewardship, the architecture and spirit of Tan Ky remain remarkably intact, becoming a treasured piece of Hoi An’s history.
A REFINED HARMONY OF VIETNAMESE – CHINESE – JAPANESE ARCHITECTURE
Stepping inside Tan Ky Ancient House, visitors immediately sense the harmonious blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles woven seamlessly into every detail.
The traditional Vietnamese timber-frame layout reveals itself through sturdy jackfruit-wood columns, yin-yang tiled roofs, and the iconic “three rooms, two wings” structure. Interlaced within are Chinese influences expressed through horizontal lacquered boards, parallel sentences, and intricate carvings symbolizing the owner’s hopes for prosperity, longevity, and good fortune. Japanese influence appears in the flexible wooden frame system, designed to withstand the humid central climate while creating an airy, spacious interior.
All these elements converge around the bright central courtyard, where sunlight filters through wooden shutters and gently illuminates the old brick floor and centuries-old carvings. It is this delicate interplay of styles that gives Tan Ky Ancient House its unique identity.
CENTURIES TOLD THROUGH PRECIOUS ARTIFACTS
The more than 200-year-old house safeguards numerous rare artifacts, each carrying its own story. Among the highlights are the system of lacquered boards, parallel sentences, and ink paintings found throughout the house. Particularly striking is the Bach Lieu parallel sentence, composed of exactly 100 strokes, each shaped like a bird in a different posture – showcasing the extraordinary artistry of craftsmen from the past.
The house also preserves an extraordinary relic: a Confucius cup dating back approximately 550–600 years, the only one of its kind in Vietnam. Displayed in a protective glass case, it offers visitors a rare opportunity to admire a historic treasure up close.
THE FIRST HOUSE IN HOI AN RECOGNIZED AS A NATIONAL HERITAGE SITE
Tan Ky Ancient House became the first residence in Hoi An to be designated a National Heritage Site in 1985, affirming its outstanding value within the ancient town’s heritage system.
Today, the house remains an essential stop for anyone exploring the Hoi An Ancient Quarter. Amid numerous heritage buildings, Tan Ky stands out for its authenticity, its historical depth preserved across centuries, and the quiet elegance that transports visitors back to the days of a thriving port town.
MUST-TRY EXPERIENCES AT TAN KY ANCIENT HOUSE
A visit to Tan Ky offers enriching moments for those who love cultural discovery. The stories shared by guides about the merchant family, their seven generations of stewardship, and the golden era of Hoi An bring history vividly to life.
The rear courtyard, filled with soft light and the gentle breeze of the old town, is a perfect place to pause and observe the fine architectural details. Combining the visit with nearby attractions such as the Japanese Covered Bridge, the Fujian Assembly Hall, and surrounding heritage sites will make the journey even more fulfilling.
ESSENTIAL INFORMATION
Ticket: Included in the Hoi An Ancient Quarter sightseeing pass.
Opening hours: Monday – Sunday
- Morning: 08:00–11:30
- Afternoon: 13:30–17:45
Tan Ky Ancient House preserves one of the most authentic expressions of Hoi An’s ancient spirit. Every wall, tile, and artifact carries a quiet yet profound story. If you wish to experience Hoi An through both its long historical arc and the delicate beauty of everyday life from centuries ago, be sure to make time for this 200-year-old house. A brief stop—yet one that promises lasting impressions on any cultural journey through Central Vietnam.
DANANG TOURISM PROMOTION CENTER
