Hoi An Central Park: Travel Guide, Things to Do & How to Get There

Hoi An Central Park is a refreshing green oasis offering a peaceful escape from the bustling, lantern-lit streets of the Ancient Town. While most visitors flock to the centuries-old merchant houses and iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, this sprawling public space provides a unique and authentic window into the modern soul of Hoi An. It's where local life unfolds, from morning tai chi sessions to lively evening gatherings. In this complete GTrip guide, we'll cover everything you need to plan your visit, such as its unique features, fascinating history, the best things to do, and how to get there easily. We'll share our expert insights to help you discover why a stop at this park is an essential part of any Hoi An itinerary.

Overview of Hoi An Central Park

• Address: 02 Tran Hung Dao Street, Hoi An Ward (formerly Son Phong Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 24/7
• Entrance fee: free
• Best time to visit: Early morning (6:00 AM - 8:00 AM) to see locals exercising and enjoy the cool air, or late afternoon/evening (4:30 PM - 7:00 PM) when the park buzzes with families and the heat has subsided.

Hoi An Central Park, officially known as Cong Vien Hoi An, is the largest park in Hoi An, and serves as the city's green lung and primary community hub. It's the perfect spot for travelers looking to slow down, observe daily life, or simply enjoy a quiet moment away from the main tourist circuit. Here is the essential information you need at a glance.

History of Hoi An Central Park

Hoi An Central Park occupies land with a rich historical legacy. Before 1945, it was the site of the city’s largest prison. During the Vietnam War, the area served as a military base for the U.S. Army and the Republic of Vietnam. From 1975 to 1997, it hosted a military school, later replaced by Phan Chau Trinh University until 2017. In 2020, local authorities recognized surviving military blockhouses and Faifo Prison ruins as historical sites, preserving them for public awareness and commemoration.

Hoi An Central Park is the largest park in Hoi An

Architecture of Hoi An Central Park

The park spans 45,450 m² and is enclosed by Ly Thuong Kiet, Tran Hung Dao, Pham Hong Thai Streets, and Hoi An Hospital. Constructed between 2018 and 2020, it features a two-story cultural center, a 5,520 m² stone-paved square accommodating 5,000 visitors, green spaces with trees, walking paths, and rest huts. The design balances historical preservation with modern public utility, providing open spaces for events while maintaining sightlines to nearby heritage structures.

Things to do in Hoi An Central Park

Hoi An Central Park is less about specific "attractions" and more about the experience of immersing yourself in the local rhythm. It's a place to participate, observe, and unwind. The atmosphere changes dramatically throughout the day, offering different experiences with each visit. It's a fantastic destination for people-watching and one of the best free things to do in Hoi An, especially if you're traveling with family.

1. Explore historical relics

Discover the military bunkers along Tran Hung Dao Street, remnants of a US Army combat engineer battalion's defense system during the Vietnam War. Recognized as historical sites in 2020, they are open to the public for free.

The ruins of Faifo Prison, a French-built detention center from the early 20th century, are located at the northwest corner of the park, south of Ly Thuong Kiet Street. This site, where locals were imprisoned and tortured for opposing colonial rule, was recognized as a provincial historical relic in 2024. Although no documents or artifacts are displayed due to its abandoned state and war damage, the area has been restored and protected by a metal fence.

2. Enjoy park amenities

Visitors can enjoy the extensive green spaces, serene walking paths, and shaded resting huts throughout the park. The central two-story building also serves as a hub for various cultural exchange activities.

You can enjoy the green spaces and peaceful atmosphere at the Hoi An Central Park

3. Attend events and festivals

Throughout the year, Hoi An Central Park's spacious main square is the venue for numerous city-wide events and vibrant festivals. This makes it a dynamic gathering place for both locals and tourists.

How to get to Hoi An Central Park?

Getting to Hoi An Central Park is straightforward whether you are coming from Da Nang, staying nearby, or exploring the Ancient Town. The park is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, and you can choose the route that best suits your schedule and preference. Below are the main ways to reach the park from key locations.

From Da Nang International Airport

Hoi An Central Park is about 30 km south of Da Nang Airport, making it an easy day trip for visitors. Travelers often choose a private car or motorbike to enjoy flexibility along the scenic coastal route.

• Distance: ~30 km
• Travel time: ~45-60 minutes
• Routes: Vo Nguyen Giap Street → Truong Sa Street → Lac Long Quan Street → Hai Ba Trung Street → Ly Thuong Kiet Street
• Optimal option: Private car or motorbike along the coastal road for a smooth and scenic ride

From Da Nang City center

From downtown Da Nang, the park is just a short ride south, offering a convenient stop before exploring Hoi An Ancient Town.

• Distance: ~30 km
• Travel time: ~40-50 minutes
• Routes: Similar coastal route via Vo Nguyen Giap → Truong Sa → Lac Long Quan → Hai Ba Trung → Ly Thuong Kiet
• Optimal option: Taxi or motorbike for comfort and efficiency

From around Hoi An Ancient Town

For those already in Hoi An, the park is within walking or cycling distance from central areas like Minh An and Son Phong.

• Distance: 1-3 km depends on location
• Travel time: 5-15 minutes
• Routes: Tran Hung Dao Street, Pham Hong Thai Street, or Ly Thuong Kiet Street
• Optimal option: Walk or rent a bicycle to enjoy the nearby scenery

Transportation options

Visitors can choose multiple ways to reach Hoi An Central Park depending on preference and budget.

• Walking: Easy from nearby wards
• Bicycle or motorbike: Flexible, allows exploration
• Taxi/car: Comfortable and fast for longer distances
• Electric bus or hotel shuttle: Convenient for tourists staying at resorts
• Cyclo or minivan: Alternative for short group trips

You can easily get to Hoi An by various modes of transportation

Attractions near Hoi An Central Park

The park's strategic location makes it an excellent base camp for a day of exploration. Many of Hoi An’s most famous landmarks are just a short walk or cycle away. You can easily combine a relaxing visit to the park with a tour of these iconic sites.

• Hoi An Ancient Town: Just a 5-10 minute walk from the park, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the heart and soul of the city. After enjoying the open space of the park, dive into the magical narrow streets filled with yellow-walled merchant houses, art galleries, tailor shops, and countless cafes.
• Japanese Covered Bridge: The undisputed symbol of Hoi An is located about a 15-minute walk from the park. This 18th-century bridge is a beautiful piece of architecture and history, connecting the Japanese and Chinese quarters of the old city. It's a must-see, and walking there from the park takes you through some of the town's most scenic streets.
• Hoi An Central Market: Experience a riot of color, sound, and smell at the bustling Central Market, located along the Thu Bon River. It's a 10-15 minute walk from the park. Here you can find everything from fresh produce and spices to silks and souvenirs. The indoor food hall is a fantastic place to sample authentic and cheap local dishes.
• Fujian Assembly Hall in Hoi An Ancient Town: One of the most impressive of Hoi An's historic assembly halls, this landmark is a testament to the city's multicultural trading past. Its ornate gates, colorful statues, and peaceful courtyards are stunning. You can reach it in about 10 minutes on foot from the park.

You should walk a short distance from the park to get to the Hoi An Ancient Town

Practical tips for visiting Hoi An Central Park

Make the most of your visit to Hoi An Central Park with these simple, practical tips for a comfortable, safe, and enjoyable experience.

• Wear comfortable shoes: The park is spacious, so you’ll be walking, strolling, or exploring nearby areas.
• Protect yourself from the sun: Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, especially between 10 AM and 3 PM when the sun is strongest.
• Stay hydrated: Carry a reusable water bottle, you can refill it at your hotel or local cafes to stay refreshed and reduce plastic waste.
• Plan your timing: Early mornings or late afternoons are the best times to enjoy the park when it’s lively but not too hot.
• Respect local etiquette: The park is a community space, be mindful of people exercising or relaxing, and always ask before taking close-up photos.
• Keep an eye on belongings: Hoi An is generally safe, but it’s wise to watch your bags and valuables.
• Try local snacks: Evening vendors often sell delicious street food around the park, a tasty, authentic experience.
• Be prepared for the weather: In the dry season (February-August), bring sunscreen, sunglasses, a hat or umbrella, and water. In the rainy season (September-January), carry a rain poncho or jacket, umbrella, and waterproof shoes or sandals.

Remember practical tips to have a good time relaxing at the Hoi An Central Park

Hoi An Central Park might not have the ancient allure of a UNESCO-stamped temple, but its value lies in something more real and immediate. It’s a living, breathing space that shows you the Hoi An of today, a city that beautifully honors its past while embracing the present. It offers a much-needed pause from a packed travel itinerary, a place not just to see, but to be. A visit provides a priceless connection to the local community. So, on your next trip, step just beyond the Ancient Town's borders and discover this green heart of Hoi An. For more insider guides on making the most of your Vietnam adventure, be sure to explore more of our GTrip travel articles.