Village Life in Hoi An Cooking Class, Wooden Boat Ride, Lunch

Hoi An , Vietnam

Village Life in Hoi An Cooking Class, Wooden Boat Ride, Lunch

Active

7h - 8h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is not a checklist tour—it’s a deep countryside experience designed for travelers who want to truly connect with Hội An.

What makes our tour special is the authentic flow of local life. You don’t just visit villages; you move through them naturally—by bicycle across rice fields, by hand-rowed wooden boat along quiet waterways, and by foot into family kitchens and gardens. Every activity is hosted by local people, not performers, sharing their daily routines with genuine warmth.

Unlike crowded group tours, our experience is small-scale and community-led, ensuring personal interaction and a relaxed pace. Ingredients for the cooking class come directly from Trà Quế gardens, meals are enjoyed as locals do, and moments like meeting water buffalo in the fields happen naturally, not on a schedule.

By joining this tour, you’re not only creating meaningful memories—you’re supporting sustainable tourism that protects local culture, livelihoods, and the environment.

Available options

Live tour guide in Hoian

Kumwuat wlecome drinks<br/>Pickup included

What's included

Cooking class

Bicycles with helmets

English tour guide

Wooden boat ride on Co Co River

Lunch or Dinner

Detailed itinerary

We will pick you up for the half day experience in the village: Perfect for food lovers, families, and travelers seeking an authentic, slow-travel experience in Hội An. Get your biking along the countryside and rice paddy fields, stop to take photo with water buffallo,...

Hands-on Cooking Experience at Water Wheel Restaurant – Trà Quế Village

Discover the soul of Vietnamese cuisine through a warm, hands-on cooking experience at Water Wheel Restaurant, located in the heart of Trà Quế Vegetable Village, Hội An. Surrounded by lush organic gardens, this experience invites you to go beyond recipes and truly understand how local food connects people, land, and tradition.

Begin with a short walk through the village to learn about traditional farming methods using seaweed fertilizer, then step into the kitchen where local chefs guide you through preparing classic dishes such as fresh spring rolls, Bánh Xèo, and herbal salads using ingredients harvested just steps away.

This is not a cooking show—it’s a shared table, friendly laughter, and meaningful cultural exchange. You cook, taste, and enjoy your own creations in a peaceful countryside setting, just like a local family would.

The heart of this journey lies on the legendary Co Co River. Step aboard a traditional wooden boat, gently rowed by local fishermen who have lived with this river for generations. As the boat glides quietly through coconut palms and peaceful riverbanks, you’ll witness daily life unfolding—fishing nets being cast, villagers greeting each other, and nature moving at its own gentle pace.

This is not a motorized cruise or a staged performance. It’s a slow, intimate river experience, where silence, stories, and simple moments matter. Your local host shares insights about the river’s history, fishing traditions, and the changing relationship between the community and the waterway.

Whether enjoyed at sunrise or in the soft light of late afternoon, this wooden boat journey offers a rare sense of calm and connection—an authentic moment that many travelers describe as the highlight of their time in Hội An.

After the cooking experience, hop on your bicycle and continue the journey through the peaceful countryside. The narrow village paths lead you across vast emerald rice fields, where the rhythm of rural life unfolds slowly and gracefully.

Along the way, you’ll encounter a water buffalo family resting and working in the fields—a timeless symbol of Vietnamese agriculture. Watch as farmers guide their buffalo through the mud, plowing the land just as their ancestors did generations ago.

The air is fresh, the scenery is open and quiet, and the only sounds are birds, wind, and the gentle splash of water in the paddies. This ride isn’t about speed—it’s about presence, connection, and witnessing everyday life that remains beautifully unchanged.

A simple yet unforgettable moment that captures the true spirit of rural Hội An.

What's not included

Personal expense

Gratuity

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Written guide

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

A child seat is available (upon request)

A hat, shoes, sunscreen, and sunglasses are recommended.

About Hoi An

Hoi An is a charming ancient town and UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and rich cultural heritage. This former trading port blends Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences, offering a unique glimpse into Southeast Asia's history.

Top Attractions

Hoi An Ancient Town

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Ancient Town is famous for its well-preserved architecture, lantern-lit streets, and historic buildings. It offers a glimpse into the town's rich history as a trading port.

Historical Half day to full day 120,000 VND (Ancient Town Entry Ticket)

An Bang Beach

A beautiful beach located about 4 km from Hoi An, known for its white sand and clear waters. It's a great spot for relaxation and water activities.

Beach Half day Free

My Son Sanctuary

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son is an ancient Hindu temple complex built by the Cham civilization. It's a significant archaeological site with intricate carvings and ruins.

Historical Full day 150,000 VND

Hoi An Night Market

A bustling night market offering a variety of local food, souvenirs, and handicrafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture and try street food.

Market 1-2 hours Varies

Tra Que Vegetable Village

A peaceful village known for its organic vegetable farming. Visitors can participate in farming activities, learn about traditional farming techniques, and enjoy a farm-to-table meal.

Cultural Half day Varies

Must-Try Local Dishes

Cao Lau

A noodle dish with pork, herbs, and a unique broth made from pork bones and ash of burnt rice. It's a local specialty and a must-try.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork and gluten

Banh Mi

A Vietnamese baguette sandwich filled with various ingredients like pâté, cold cuts, pickled vegetables, and fresh herbs. Hoi An's version is particularly delicious.

Breakfast/Lunch Can be made vegetarian or with various fillings

White Rose Dumplings

Small, delicate shrimp dumplings that resemble white roses. They are a local specialty and a popular street food item.

Snack Contains shrimp and gluten

Quang Noodles

A noodle dish with turmeric-infused rice noodles, pork, shrimp, and a flavorful broth. It's a popular dish from the nearby town of Quang and also loved in Hoi An.

Lunch/Dinner Contains pork and shrimp

Popular Activities

Snorkeling Diving Hiking Motorbike tours Beach activities Spa treatments Cooking classes Yoga

Best Time to Visit

February to April

This period offers the best weather with warm temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rain. It's ideal for exploring the town and enjoying outdoor activities.

25-30°C 77-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Vietnamese
Widely spoken: English
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere

Currency

Vietnamese Dong (VND)

Time Zone

GMT+7

Electricity

220VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Hoi An is generally a safe destination for travelers. Petty crime can occur, so take precautions to protect your belongings. Be cautious of motorbikes when walking, as they can be numerous and fast.

Important Precautions:

• Use reputable taxi services or ride-hailing apps like Grab.
• Keep your belongings secure and be aware of your surroundings.
• Bargain for souvenirs and services to avoid overpaying.

Getting there

By air

Da Nang International Airport • 30 km

By train

Hoi An Station

By bus

Hoi An Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Buses connect Hoi An to nearby towns and cities but are not extensively used within the town itself.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Grab

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Ancient Town Cam Chau An Bang

Day trips

Da Nang

30 km • Half day to full day

Da Nang is a vibrant coastal city known for its beaches, modern architecture, and cultural sites. It offers a mix of urban attractions and natural beauty.

My Son Sanctuary

50 km • Full day

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, My Son is an ancient Hindu temple complex built by the Cham civilization. It's a significant archaeological site with intricate carvings and ruins.

Cham Islands

20 km • Full day

A group of eight islands known for their beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and biodiversity. The islands are a great spot for snorkeling, diving, and relaxing.

Festivals

Hoi An Lantern Festival • 14th of each lunar month Hoi An International Food Festival • Annual, usually in June Mid-Autumn Festival • Annual, usually in September or October

Pro tips

Visit the Ancient Town in the evening when the lanterns are lit for a magical experience.
Try local specialties like Cao Lau, Banh Mi, and White Rose Dumplings at local eateries and markets.
Explore the town on foot or by bicycle to discover hidden gems and enjoy the pedestrian-friendly streets.
Book a cooking class to learn about local ingredients and techniques, and enjoy a farm-to-table meal.
Visit the Hoi An Lantern Festival on the 14th of each lunar month for a unique and cultural experience.