Hoi An is not only famous for its cultural heritage, ancient temples, or delicious food, but also home to a special flower – bougainvillea.
Loved for its simple beauty, vibrant colors and ability to thrive in tropical climates, bougainvillea has become an indispensable part of the landscape of Hoi An ancient town, captivating visitors and locals alike.![]() |
| Bougainvillea trellis provides shade in front of a shop on Tran Phu Street - Hoi An. Image: TDK. |
The Speciality of Hoi An Paper FlowersBougainvillea is an ornamental plant originating from South America, but when introduced to Vietnam, especially in Hoi An, this flower quickly adapted and became a symbol of this ancient city. The reason why bougainvillea in Hoi An stands out is because of its bright colors and spread along the streets, houses, and fences, creating a romantic and vibrant space. Although the name is "bougainvillea", in fact, bougainvillea is not a real flower but leaves that change color, surrounding the small pistils inside. It is the softness and fragility of these petals that make the name "bougainvillea". The flowers come in a variety of colors such as pink, red, purple, yellow, white, creating a colorful picture, both ancient and modern.
Hoi An bougainvillea - Hoi An Landscape Specialty
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| Bougainvillea flowers bloom in the sunny season in Hoi An. Image: TDK. |
Hoi An with bougainvillea also brings a peaceful, serene feeling. Bougainvillea usually blooms in the summer months, when the city's climate becomes hot, but the bougainvillea flowers are fresh, creating a cool and gentle atmosphere. The color of bougainvillea not only highlights the scenery, but also blends with the light of the lanterns, creating a shimmering, magical beauty at night.
Paper Flowers – Part of Hoi An Light FestivalEvery time the light festival takes place, the bougainvillea flowers become more prominent than ever. At this time, the ancient houses, cafes and restaurants along the Thu Bon River are lit up with colorful lanterns, creating a mysterious and poetic space. The colors of the bougainvillea seem to blend into this picture of light, making the atmosphere shimmer and romantic.
Bougainvillea in Hoi An Houses and Lifestyle
Hoi An people often plant bougainvillea around their houses, not only for decoration but also to bring fortune and luck. According to feng shui, bougainvillea symbolizes reunion, harmony, and prosperity. Planting bougainvillea is also a way for people to express their love for nature and their attachment to long-standing traditions.In addition, bougainvillea is an easy-to-grow, easy-to-care-for plant, suitable for Hoi An's tropical climate. They can grow strongly without requiring too much care, which is why bougainvillea has become a popular choice for bonsai lovers.
Hoi An Tourism - Don't Forget to Admire BougainvilleaComing to Hoi An, visitors cannot miss admiring the beauty of bougainvillea. If you come in the blooming season, you will feel a fresh space, full of vitality. Small streets, ancient houses, walls covered with bougainvillea will bring you unforgettable experiences. This is also the reason why bougainvillea has become an indispensable part of the souvenir photos of visitors to Hoi An.
In addition, you can also buy bougainvillea as souvenirs or bring it home to grow, to keep a part of the memory of Hoi An, of the flower associated with the romantic and typical beauty of this land.
Conclude
Bougainvillea is not just a simple ornamental plant, but has become an indispensable part of Hoi An's cultural identity. With bright colors and graceful shapes, bougainvillea brings a simple but attractive beauty, and is a testament to the harmony between nature and people in this ancient town. Whether tourists or locals, every time we look at bougainvillea, we feel a sense of peace, serenity, and a bit of romance like the soul of Hoi An.
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