15 Best Photo Spots in Hoi An Chosen by Local Photographers
Hoi An is full of beautiful corners — but not all photo spots are created equal.
As local photographers, we don’t just look for famous places. We look for light, timing, atmosphere, and emotion. Some of the best photo spots in Hoi An aren’t the most popular ones — they’re the ones that feel natural, calm, and timeless in photos.
In this guide, you’ll discover 15 best photo spots in Hoi An, carefully chosen by local photographers, including iconic landmarks and hidden gems that most visitors miss.
Why Trust Local Photographers for Photo Spots in Hoi An?
Local photographers understand:
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How light moves through the streets
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Which spots are crowded — and when they’re not
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Seasonal changes and weather patterns
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How to get natural photos without forced posing
This list is based on real shooting experience, not just tourist popularity.
1. Hoi An Ancient Town Streets
📍 Old Town
The heart of Hoi An and the most timeless photo location.
Why photographers love it:
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Yellow walls glow beautifully in natural light
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Perfect for walking, candid shots
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Works in both sunshine and cloudy weather
👉 Best time: early morning (6:00–8:00 AM)
2. Lantern Streets at Night
📍 Ancient Town after sunset
Lantern-lit streets are iconic — but they require skill.
Why it’s special:
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Warm, romantic atmosphere
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Cinematic night photos
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Emotional storytelling
👉 Best for: couples, honeymooners
3. Hoai River & Floating Lanterns
📍 Along the Old Town riverbank
One of the most romantic spots in Hoi An.
Photo highlights:
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Reflections on the water
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Soft evening light
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Calm, emotional moments
👉 Best time: blue hour (just after sunset)
4. Japanese Covered Bridge
📍 Chùa Cầu
An architectural icon with historical charm.
Local tip:
Photograph it from side angles early in the morning to avoid crowds and get softer light.
5. Hidden Alleys of Ancient Town
📍 Small side streets near Tran Phu & Nguyen Thai Hoc
These alleys are a local favorite.
Why they work so well:
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Fewer tourists
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Soft shadows
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Perfect for intimate portraits
👉 Great for: solo travelers, couples who dislike crowds
6. Yellow Wall Corners (Local Secret)
📍 Scattered throughout Old Town
Not all yellow walls are equal.
Local photographers look for:
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Clean textures
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Directional light
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Minimal background distractions
These spots create timeless, editorial-style photos.
7. Faifo Coffee Rooftop
📍 Faifo Coffee
One of the best rooftop views in Hoi An.
Why it’s popular:
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Overlooking Ancient Town rooftops
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Warm afternoon light
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Great depth and composition
👉 Go early to avoid crowds.
8. Hoi An Central Market Area
📍 Near the Old Town
This spot adds life and authenticity.
Best for:
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Street photography
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Cultural storytelling
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Natural movement shots
👉 Works best in the morning.
9. An Bang Beach
📍 An Bang
The most photogenic beach near Hoi An.
Why photographers love it:
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Clean horizon
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Soft sand tones
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Beautiful sunrise and sunset light
👉 Best time: sunrise for minimal crowds.
10. Cua Dai Beach
📍 Cua Dai
More open and dramatic than An Bang.
Perfect for:
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Wide shots
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Silhouettes
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Windy, emotional beach photos
11. Cam Chau Countryside & Rice Fields
📍 Cam Chau
A peaceful escape from tourist areas.
Why it’s special:
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Green rice fields
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Quiet roads
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Authentic village life
👉 Best season: March–August
12. Small Wooden Boats & Local Life
📍 Rural river areas
These spots tell a story.
Photo style:
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Documentary
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Natural interactions
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Deeply local feeling
Perfect for travelers who value experience over luxury.
13. Bay Mau Coconut Forest
📍 Cam Thanh
A unique ecosystem near Hoi An.
Why it’s popular:
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Coconut palms
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Boat rides
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Fun, candid moments
👉 Great for playful couples and families.
14. Boutique Cafés & Homestays
📍 Scattered around Hoi An
Rainy days or hot afternoons? This is your answer.
Why photographers use them:
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Beautiful window light
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Calm atmosphere
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Lifestyle storytelling
15. Quiet Streets at Sunrise
📍 Anywhere in Old Town before 7 AM
This is when magic happens.
Why sunrise wins:
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Empty streets
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Soft golden light
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Peaceful energy
Most of the best Hoi An photos are taken before most people wake up.
Best Time to Visit Photo Spots in Hoi An
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Morning: soft light, fewer tourists
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Afternoon: warm tones, more energy
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Night: romantic, cinematic mood
A local photographer helps you combine timing + location for the best result.
Common Mistakes Visitors Make When Choosing Photo Spots
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Going at peak tourist hours
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Trying to visit too many locations
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Following Instagram spots without considering light
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Ignoring weather conditions
Good photos depend on timing, not just location.
Final Thoughts
Hoi An isn’t about chasing famous spots — it’s about finding moments.
With the right timing and local guidance, even a quiet corner can become the most beautiful photo from your trip.
These 15 photo spots are not just visually stunning — they’re proven locations that work in real photos, chosen by local photographers who know Hoi An deeply.
📸 Want to Visit These Photo Spots With a Local Photographer?
If you’re planning a photoshoot in Hoi An and want access to the best photo spots at the best time, working with a local photographer makes all the difference.
Feel free to reach out — I’d love to help you create natural, meaningful photos in the most beautiful corners of Hoi An.