Step Into the Charm of Phung Hung Old House in Hoi An

Phung Hung Old House – a cultural highlight in Hoi An, preserving ancient architecture, traditional embroidery, and the legacy of eight generations.

If you’re planning a trip to Hoi An, one spot you definitely shouldn’t miss is Phung Hung Old House. This beautiful, over 240-year-old house sits right in the heart of the ancient town and tells a fascinating story of culture, commerce, and family heritage. It’s a perfect place to soak up the unique blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese influences that make Hoi An so special. Let’s take a closer look at what makes Phung Hung Old House such a must-visit.

Origins, History, and the Meaning Behind the Name Phung Hung Old House

A Prime Location in the Heart of Hoi An

Nestled at No. 4 Nguyen Thi Minh Khai Street, just a short walk from the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, Phung Hung Old House sits in one of the most visited corners of Hoi An Ancient Town. Its peaceful wooden façade may seem modest at first glance, but step inside and you'll uncover centuries of stories woven into its walls, beams, and tiled roofs.

Built During Hoi An’s Golden Era of Trade

The house was built around the late 1700s to early 1800s, during the height of Hoi An’s glory as a thriving international port. At that time, merchant ships from China, Japan, Portugal, and the Netherlands were docking regularly at the Thu Bon River, bringing exotic goods and diverse cultures.

The original owner of the house was a successful Vietnamese merchant, known locally not only for his wealth, but for his foresight. He chose to build a solid, multi-purpose house that would last for generations—one that could serve both as a cozy residence for his large family and a busy storefront for his trading business.

Unlike temporary market stalls, this house was meant to be permanent—a statement of trust and presence in the commercial heart of town.

“It’s amazing to think this family was running a business right from their living room. It’s so different from how we live today,” said Colin, a visitor from Seattle.

The Name “Phung Hung” – A Vision for Prosperity

The name Phung Hung carries more than just a poetic ring—it reflects the hopes and ambitions of the family. In Vietnamese, “Phùng” means to meet or encounter, and “Hưng” means prosperity or flourishing. Together, they convey a sense of “welcoming prosperity” or “rising fortune.”

This was not just the name of the house—it was also the name of the family’s trading brand, which appeared on crates of goods shipped up and down the river. It told customers and partners that this merchant family stood for longevity, trust, and quality. Naming the house Phung Hung was, in a way, branding it as a dream of intergenerational success.

Today, that dream still echoes through the wooden hallways and the carefully preserved altar inside.

A Home and a Store – Where Business Was Personal

Phung Hung Old House was originally used to trade in high-value, in-demand goods that were typical of Hoi An’s international commerce. These included:

Cinnamon and pepper from Vietnam’s Central Highlands
Salt from the nearby sea
Silk and woven fabric from local craftsmen
Fine ceramics and lacquerware imported from China or made in Bat Trang

Transactions didn’t happen in a backroom—they took place in the main hall, with buyers welcomed like guests. The furniture you see today, polished and dark with age, was once the backdrop of business deals and merchant conversations.

“I could almost hear the voices—people talking over prices, goods being brought in on boats,” shared Mei Lin from Singapore. “It didn’t feel like a museum. It felt like a real memory.”

Eight Generations Under One Roof

Few heritage sites can claim to be living homes—but this one can. Phung Hung Old House has been passed down through eight generations of the same Vietnamese family.

Each generation has added small touches—repairs, paintings, family stories—but the heart of the house remains unchanged. The wooden pillars, the spiritual altar, the worn floorboards—they have witnessed family births, ancestor ceremonies, wartime fear, and peaceful sunsets.

Even today, the current caretakers live partly in the home, and warmly welcome visitors not as strangers but as curious friends. They speak passionately about the house, offering more than facts—they offer their lived experience.

Recognized as a National Treasure

On June 29, 1993, the Vietnamese government officially listed Phung Hung Old House as a National Historic and Cultural Monument. This recognition protects the structure under law and helps ensure that its architecture, spiritual traditions, and personal stories can be shared with future generations.

But its real strength lies not just in government recognition—but in the way it continues to bridge past and present through everyday interaction with visitors.

Keeping Traditions Alive: The Family’s Embroidery Legacy

Inside one of the side rooms, you’ll find something beautiful and unexpected: a small hand embroidery workshop run by the descendants of the original family. Here, local artisans—many of them relatives—sit near the windows, stitching delicate designs of dragons, lanterns, and lotuses onto silk.

Visitors can watch the process, speak to the artists, and even purchase one-of-a-kind embroidered pieces to take home. Each item reflects not just skill, but family pride, and each sale supports the continuation of the craft.

“It wasn’t just buying a souvenir,” said Rachel from Boston. “It was supporting a real family tradition that’s been going for centuries.”

Architectural Walkthrough: Exploring the Design of Phung Hung Old House

From the moment you enter Phung Hung Old House, it’s clear this isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place to experience. The house is a rare example of traditional Vietnamese architecture blending seamlessly with Chinese and Japanese influences. Every beam, tile, and doorway tells a story—not just of aesthetics, but of function, culture, and survival. Here’s how to make the most of your journey through this 240-year-old home.

Step 1: The Ground Floor – Where Daily Life and Trade Once Met

This spacious, open level was once the heart of the family’s trading life. You’ll first notice the beautiful hand-crafted furniture made from precious hardwood—sturdy, polished, and still in use. Around you, the walls are decorated with intricate carvings made by artisans from Kim Bong village, famous for their woodworking skills.

One of the most impressive architectural features is the system of 80 lim wood pillars, each standing on a stone pedestal. This design protects the wooden structure from moisture and termites, ensuring it has lasted for centuries. The floor feels solid under your feet, yet slightly worn—just enough to remind you that generations have passed this way before.

“I sat on one of the wooden benches and imagined people negotiating trade deals over cups of tea. You can feel the energy still in the room.”
— Liam, Ireland

At the main entrance, don’t miss the carved “guardian eyes” on the doors. These traditional motifs are believed to ward off evil spirits and are a quiet but powerful expression of Vietnamese spiritual belief.

Step 2: The Upper Floor – Spiritual Calm and Smart Ventilation

Climb the wooden staircase, and you’ll enter a more tranquil space. The upper floor is where the family worshipped their ancestors and Thien Hau, the Goddess of the Sea. It’s peaceful, softly lit, and filled with the scent of incense. The altar is beautifully arranged, surrounded by offerings of fruit, flowers, and traditional ceramics.

Architecturally, this floor is fascinating. The windows are equipped with folding wooden shutters that can be removed or adjusted to let in airflow. The house stays cool thanks to the “Tu Hai” roof design, a Japanese-style structure with yin-yang tiles layered to create natural ventilation gaps.

“No fans, no air conditioning, and yet I felt more comfortable than anywhere else in Hoi An. It’s a brilliant design.”
— Sarah, Singapore

Look up, and you’ll find carved carp fish motifs along the ceiling beams—symbols of luck and perseverance in Vietnamese culture. But they also hint at the multicultural history of Hoi An, blending Chinese symbolism and Japanese style into one quiet narrative.

Step 3: The Balcony and Roof – A Breath of Old Town

Finish your tour with a moment on the wooden balcony, which faces the street below. The hand-carved railings are simple but elegant, offering a peaceful spot to look out over the rooftops of Hoi An’s Ancient Town. The breeze filters through the tiled roof and folding shutters, carrying the scent of the river and distant street food.

“I didn’t expect to feel emotional, but standing on that balcony, I felt part of something older than myself.”
— Sofia, Portugal

The view from here isn’t just scenic—it’s symbolic. From this quiet corner, you can see how the house fits into the bigger picture of Hoi An: a trading town built on harmony, adaptation, and care for craftsmanship.

Final Tip: Walk Slowly, Look Closely

Phung Hung Old House isn’t a place to rush through. Every doorway, carving, and beam was placed with intention—and it rewards visitors who slow down and pay attention. Whether you're passionate about architecture or simply curious about how people lived centuries ago, this house offers a rare opportunity to step into the past—and feel how alive it still is.

Tips for Visiting

Phung Hung Old House is open every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, and it’s easy to find—just a short walk from the Japanese Covered Bridge in the heart of Hoi An’s Old Town. Whether you explore by foot, bike, or hop on a cyclo, the journey there is just as charming as the house itself.

Tickets are about 120,000 VND for international visitors and usually include entry to two other old houses nearby, making it a worthwhile stop for anyone interested in history and culture.

James from Chicago recommended taking your time:

“Don’t rush through it like a checklist. I sat for ten minutes just watching the way light came through the roof. It was one of my favorite moments in Hoi An.”

Before you leave, pause by the main doorway. Run your hand along the carved wood, ask the caretaker a question, or simply stand still for a moment. You might just feel, like many others have, that Phung Hung Old House is not just a place you visit—it’s a place you remember.

Cultural Etiquette to Keep in Mind

Though Phung Hung Old House is open to the public, it’s still a living home and a sacred space for ancestor worship. Showing respect goes a long way—not just for the family who lives there, but for the deeper cultural values they represent.

Here are a few simple but meaningful tips:

Speak softly indoors, especially near the ancestral altar or worship spaces. These are not just for show—they are used regularly.
Ask before taking photos of the family members or artisans at work. They’re usually very welcoming but appreciate the courtesy.
Don’t touch the altar, incense bowls, or offerings—even if you're just curious. These items hold deep spiritual meaning.
Remove your shoes if invited into the innermost parts of the house (especially upstairs). Most tours won’t require this, but it’s good to be prepared.

“I noticed the caretaker gently rearranging the offerings after a group passed through too quickly,” said Natalie from California. “That reminded me to slow down and treat the space like a home, not just a museum.”

Showing small gestures of respect will not only deepen your connection with the house but often lead to warmer, more personal interactions with the hosts.

What to See Nearby

After visiting Phung Hung Old House, take time to explore some of Hoi An’s other must-see landmarks—many of which are within a short walking distance. Here are a few spots worth adding to your itinerary:

Japanese Covered Bridge

Just a 1-minute walk across the small canal
One of Hoi An’s most iconic structures, built in the 16th century
Beautiful for photos and a symbol of Japanese-Vietnamese friendship

Tan Ky Old House

Only a few steps away from Phung Hung Old House
Another well-preserved merchant house with unique architectural differences
Offers a good comparison between traditional Vietnamese and Chinese influences in home design

Cantonese Assembly Hall (Quang Trieu)

About 3–4 minutes on foot
Known for its elaborate dragon statues, colorful mosaics, and incense-filled altars
A beautiful example of Chinese religious and community architecture

Cafés & Artisan Shops Along Nguyen Thi Minh Khai

Scattered along the same street
Great places to relax after your visit, try Hoi An’s signature herbal tea, or buy handcrafted lanterns, ceramics, and embroidery
Some shops are operated by local families with generations of tradition

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re passionate about history or simply want to understand the soul of Hoi An, Phung Hung Old House is a place that stays with you. It’s not just about looking at old furniture or taking photos of carved balconies. It’s about stepping into a space where eight generations lived, worked, prayed, and hoped for the future.

So when you’re in Hoi An, don’t just walk past Phung Hung Old House. Step inside. Take a breath. Let it speak to you. You might come away with more than just memories—you might leave with a deeper connection to the heart of the town itself.