A sea of tourists was recorded in Hoi An, a popular destination in Quang Nam Province, central Vietnam, on Saturday evening, as the locality marked the opening of the National Tourism Year 2022.

Visitors congregated at the Hoai River Square, Nguyen Hoang Night Street, and the Japanese Covered Bridge in Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located at the heart of Hoi An City.

The Hoai River, which flows through the ancient town, was lit up by countless boats carrying colorful lanterns as they took tourists for a trip along the waterway.

Streets along the river, namely Tran Phu, Nguyen Phuc Chu, Chau Thuong Van, and Ton Nu Ngoc Hoa, were also illuminated with bustling eateries and lantern shops.

Visitors had the opportunity to participate in traditional folk games and purchase various types of souvenirs in Hoi An Ancient Town.

Many tourists said they were very excited to see Hoi An enter its festive season following a long halt due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It’s been a while since I last came to Hoi An,” said Nguyen Minh Phuong from Ho Chi Minh City.

“The streets with colorful lanterns, the shimmering Hoai River, and the vibrant night streets have helped Hoi An Ancient Town leave a beautiful impression on tourists.”

Authorities in Hoi An City said they have been running a program from March 24 to 27 to highlight the traditional features of the old town.

The program includes an artwork exhibition, a book display, the presentation of local dishes, a traditional costume show, a market fair, and folk games.

The city has also prepared a variety of activities and festivals for the rest of the year to mark the National Tourism Year 2022.

The National Tourism Year 2022 officially kicked off during a ceremony in Hoi An City on Saturday evening, which was attended by Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, heads of the country’s tourism sector, and local authorities.

Themed ‘Quang Nam – The Green Tourist Destination,’ the National Tourism Year 2022 will have more than 190 main activities held in the central province and other localities across Vietnam.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!