Tan Ky Old House | Hoi An

Tan Ky Old House – A Glimpse into Hoi An’s Rich History and Architecture

Tan Ky Old House is one of the most famous and well-preserved historic homes in Hoi An, located in the heart of the town’s ancient quarter. This house offers visitors a unique opportunity to step back in time and experience the traditional architecture and cultural heritage that have shaped Hoi An for centuries.

Key Features of Tan Ky Old House

1. Historical Significance

• Tan Ky Old House is over 200 years old, built in the late 18th century. The house belonged to a wealthy merchant family who were involved in the thriving trade between Hoi An and foreign countries like China, Japan, and Portugal. The house’s design reflects the prosperity of this period, with its unique mix of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural influences.
• The house is a prime example of Hoi An’s merchant culture, which flourished during the 17th and 18th centuries when the town was a major international trading port. Its preservation allows visitors to understand how the prosperous merchant families of Hoi An lived during this golden era.

2. Architectural Blend

• The design of Tan Ky Old House is an exceptional blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles. The layout is based on the traditional “tube house” design, which is narrow but extends deep into the property.
• The house features a wooden structure, with intricate carvings and decorative details. The roof tiles are typically Chinese-style, while the doorways and arches show a distinct Japanese influence. This fusion reflects the diverse cultural exchange that took place in Hoi An.
• The central area of the house is an open, multi-functional space, which was once used for trading and other business purposes. The back of the house includes private family areas, and visitors can see how the spaces were divided based on social and cultural roles.

3. Well-Preserved Interior

• The interior of Tan Ky Old House is filled with antique furniture, porcelain objects, and traditional decor, providing a window into the lifestyle of the merchant family that once lived there. Visitors can see wooden furniture, tea sets, carvings, and other items that would have been part of daily life.
• The house is still owned by the descendants of the original family, and many of them continue to live there or visit, maintaining the house’s authenticity. The current owners are very welcoming and offer insightful tours of the house, explaining its history and cultural significance.

4. Symbolic Elements

• One of the most striking features of the house is its feng shui-inspired layout. The design takes into account the balance of elements like wood, water, and metal to ensure prosperity and harmony. The house has a small courtyard in the middle, which serves to bring light and air into the interior while acting as a buffer zone between the private and public spaces.
• The house also features lucky symbols and protective carvings above doors and windows, which were meant to ward off bad luck and evil spirits.

5. Cultural Heritage and Preservation

• Tan Ky Old House is a living testament to the cultural fusion of Hoi An and its rich merchant history. The house is well-maintained, and many visitors come to explore not just the architecture but also the traditions and customs associated with the town's ancient merchant culture.
• The house is included as part of the Hoi An Ancient Town’s UNESCO World Heritage Site, helping to preserve the town's historical and architectural heritage for future generations.

6. Visitors' Experience

• When visiting Tan Ky Old House, you can take a guided tour to learn more about its history, architecture, and the lives of the people who once lived there. The guides, often family members or locals, offer fascinating insights into the traditions, family history, and the significance of the house in the context of Hoi An’s development.
• Visitors can also enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and the beauty of the traditional furnishings, handcrafted details, and artifacts that make the house an excellent example of Vietnamese heritage.

Best Time to Visit

• Tan Ky Old House is open year-round, and the best time to visit is during the dry season (from February to April), when the weather is sunny and pleasant for walking around Hoi An’s ancient town. However, it is a popular tourist destination, so it is advisable to visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid large crowds.

How to Get There

• From Hoi An Ancient Town: The house is located within the Hoi An Ancient Town, making it easy to reach by foot. It is just a short walk from other notable landmarks in the old town.
• Ticket: Entry to Tan Ky Old House usually requires a ticket, which can be purchased as part of a combined pass that includes other historical sites in the area, such as the Japanese Covered Bridge and the Assembly Halls.

Why Visit Tan Ky Old House?

• Tan Ky Old House offers a rare opportunity to witness the historical and cultural fusion that took place in Hoi An during the town’s time as an international trading port. It is an excellent example of the traditional architecture of the region and provides visitors with insight into the daily life of the wealthy merchant families who played a significant role in shaping Hoi An’s history.
• The house’s well-preserved interiors, intricate woodwork, and charming atmosphere make it a must-see for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, and those wanting to understand more about the cultural heritage of Vietnam.