Explore Hoi An by Bike: A Scenic Ride Through Kim Bong Countryside
Your day begins with a refreshing boat ride along the Thu Bon River to Kim Bong Village, a quiet riverside community known for its centuries-old boatbuilding tradition. As you step off the boat, you’ll be greeted by the peaceful sounds of river life and the rhythmic tapping of hammers on wooden hulls at a traditional boatyard, where skilled carpenters still practice their craft using techniques handed down from previous generations.
From this charming starting point, your journey continues on two wheels. Together with your local guide, you’ll begin an eight-kilometer bicycle ride through the beautiful and flat countryside that surrounds Hoi An. Unlike the hustle of the town center, this area offers space, silence, and scenery. You’ll pass through lush rice paddies, vibrant vegetable gardens, and narrow paths shaded by rows of palm and bamboo.
One of the best aspects of this tour is its flexibility. There’s no rush, no pressure. You set the pace, stopping as often as you like to take photos, chat with locals, or enjoy a cool drink at a roadside café. Your guide, being a native of the area, will gladly introduce you to farmers, weavers, and other residents going about their daily lives. These organic encounters are often what travelers remember most—real conversations, authentic moments, and warm smiles.
During the ride, you’ll also visit a local woodcarving workshop. Kim Bong has long been known for its fine craftsmanship, not only in shipbuilding but also in furniture and architectural carving. Many of the ornate wooden details in Hoi An’s ancient houses were made right here. Watching these artisans at work, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the role craftsmanship has played in preserving Hoi An’s cultural identity.
The terrain on this route is almost entirely flat, making it suitable for riders of all fitness levels. Even if you haven’t ridden a bike in years, the pace is relaxed, and the route is scenic and safe. With the sun warming your shoulders and the scent of rice fields in the air, you’ll find the experience both invigorating and deeply calming.
As you loop back toward the village, you may have the opportunity to stop by a local home for a brief rest or even a simple meal. If time allows, the return to Hoi An can be done by boat again, offering another chance to enjoy the water and take in the slow rhythm of river life from a new perspective.
This tour offers more than just a change of scenery—it offers a change in pace, mindset, and connection. It’s a gentle way to explore the area around Hoi An, giving you access to places that most tourists never see. You’re not just passing through—you’re becoming part of the story.
Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with a small group of friends or family, this bike ride is an experience that blends leisure, learning, and local life into a single, unforgettable morning or afternoon.
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