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Ultimate Hoi An Travel Guide

Ultimate Hoi An Travel Guide: Vietnam's Ancient Riverside Gem

Ultimate Hoi An Travel Guide: Vietnam's Ancient Riverside Gem

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Introduction: The Living Museum of Vietnam

Nestled along the tranquil Thu Bแป“n River in central Vietnam, Hoi An stands as one of Southeast Asia's most perfectly preserved ancient towns—a mesmerizing blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European influences that have harmoniously coexisted for over five centuries. This UNESCO World Heritage site, with its iconic yellow-walled architecture, swaying silk lanterns, and timeless riverfront ambiance, offers visitors an enchanting journey back in time while providing all the comforts of modern hospitality.

What makes Hoi An truly extraordinary is its remarkable state of preservation and the living, breathing culture that continues to thrive within its ancient walls. Unlike many historical sites that feel like open-air museums, Hoi An remains a vibrant community where generations-old family businesses, traditional crafts, and cultural practices continue uninterrupted. The ancient town's pedestrian-friendly streets, free from motorized traffic during daylight hours, create an atmosphere of peaceful exploration that feels worlds away from Vietnam's bustling cities.

The magic of Hoi An reveals itself in layers—from the golden hour glow that bathes the ancient houses in warm light, to the mesmerizing spectacle of thousands of silk lanterns illuminating the riverfront after dark, to the gentle rhythm of life along the waterways where fishermen still cast their nets using centuries-old techniques. This is a destination that captures the heart slowly but completely, inviting visitors to linger longer than planned and return repeatedly.

Beyond the well-photographed ancient town, Hoi An offers a diverse tapestry of experiences—from pristine beaches with powdery white sand to lush countryside where water buffalo graze in emerald rice paddies, from sophisticated dining experiences to humble street food stalls serving recipes unchanged for generations. This combination of rich history, vibrant culture, and natural beauty creates a destination that satisfies every type of traveler while leaving an indelible mark on the soul.

Pro Tip: Visit during the full moon (14th day of the lunar month) to experience Hoi An's magical Lunar Full Moon Festival when the ancient town turns off electric lights and glows exclusively with lantern and candle light, with traditional performances and games filling the streets.

How to Get to Hoi An

Hoi An's central location in Vietnam makes it easily accessible while maintaining its tranquil, removed-from-the-world atmosphere. The journey to this ancient town is part of the experience, offering glimpses of rural Vietnamese life.

Nearest Airport

Airport Distance Drive Time Transport Options
Da Nang International (DAD) 30 km 45 minutes Taxi, private car, shuttle bus

Da Nang International Airport serves as the main gateway to Hoi An, with domestic flights from Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other major Vietnamese cities, plus international connections to Singapore, Bangkok, Seoul, and other Asian hubs.

By Train

Da Nang Railway Station is the nearest major station, located about 30 kilometers from Hoi An. The Reunification Express train connects Da Nang with destinations throughout Vietnam, including overnight sleeper trains from Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.

By Bus

Hoi An is well-connected by bus services including open-tour buses that run along the coast between major destinations. The journey from Hue takes approximately 3-4 hours and includes the spectacular Hai Van Pass.

Starting Point Travel Time Transport Options Approximate Cost
Da Nang 45 minutes Taxi, private car, local bus 300,000-500,000 VND (taxi)
Hue 3-4 hours Private car, tourist bus, train+bus 150,000-1,200,000 VND
Hanoi 16-18 hours Overnight train/bus, flight+transfer 500,000-2,500,000 VND
Ho Chi Minh City 18-20 hours Overnight train/bus, flight+transfer 500,000-2,500,000 VND

Local Transportation

Once in Hoi An, you have several charming options for getting around:

Walking

The Ancient Town is pedestrian-friendly during daylight hours, making walking the perfect way to explore the narrow lanes and discover hidden corners.

Bicycle

Many hotels offer free bicycle rentals, perfect for exploring both the Ancient Town and surrounding countryside at a leisurely pace.

Cyclo

These three-wheeled bicycle taxis offer a nostalgic way to see the sights while supporting local drivers who often double as knowledgeable guides.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Guide

Hoi An offers accommodation options ranging from luxurious riverside resorts to charming family-run guesthouses, each offering its own unique experience of this magical town.

Luxury Accommodations

Four Seasons Resort The Nam Hai

Location: Beachfront, 5km from Ancient Town
Highlights: Ultra-luxury villas, three beachfront pools, world-class spa
Best For: Luxury seekers, romantic getaways

Anantara Hoi An Resort

Location: Riverside, near Ancient Town
Highlights: French colonial architecture, river views, excellent restaurant
Best For: Culture enthusiasts, location seekers

Almanity Hoi An Wellness Resort

Location: Near Ancient Town
Highlights: Wellness-focused, daily yoga and meditation, pool oasis
Best For: Wellness travelers, relaxation

Mid-Range Hotels

Little Hoi An Boutique Hotel & Spa

Location: Near Ancient Town
Highlights: Central location, charming design, rooftop pool
Best For: Couples, design lovers

La Siesta Hoi An Resort & Spa

Location: Riverside
Highlights: Beautiful gardens, multiple pools, excellent service
Best For: Families, relaxation seekers

Hoi An Historic Hotel

Location: Ancient Town edge
Highlights: Traditional architecture, central location, historic charm
Best For: History buffs, first-time visitors

Budget & Unique Stays

Tribee Kinh Homestay

Location: Ancient Town
Highlights: Social atmosphere, organized activities, budget-friendly
Best For: Solo travelers, backpackers, social butterflies

Pham Gia Boutique Villa

Location: Quiet area near Ancient Town
Highlights: Family-run, personalized service, excellent value
Best For: Couples, budget-conscious travelers

Traditional Vietnamese Homestays

Location: Throughout Hoi An and surrounding countryside
Highlights: Authentic cultural experience, home-cooked meals, local insights
Best For: Cultural immersion, meaningful connections

Booking Tip: For the best experience, consider splitting your stay between a hotel in or near the Ancient Town for easy exploration and a resort near the beach for relaxation. Book well in advance during peak season (January-August) and for the Full Moon Festival dates.

What to See: Main Attractions

Hoi An's attractions showcase its rich history, cultural diversity, and natural beauty, offering visitors a multifaceted experience of this enchanting destination.

Japanese Covered Bridge (Chรนa Cแบงu)

This exquisite 18-meter-long bridge, built in the 1590s by the Japanese community, stands as Hoi An's most iconic landmark. The unique roofed structure features intricate carvings and a small temple dedicated to the weather god. According to local legend, the bridge was built to subdue a massive monster whose head was in India, tail in Japan, and heart in Hoi An—causing earthquakes whenever it moved. The bridge symbolizes the connection between the Japanese and Chinese communities who lived on either side of the waterway.

Assembly Halls of the Chinese Congregations

Hoi An boasts several magnificent assembly halls built by Chinese merchant communities from different regions. The most impressive include Fujian Assembly Hall with its elaborate gate and courtyard, Cantonese Assembly Hall featuring beautiful wood carvings, and Hainan Assembly Hall with its poignant memorial to merchants who were mistaken for pirates and killed. Each hall served as both a community center and place of worship for the respective Chinese communities that settled in Hoi An.

Ancient Merchant Houses

Several beautifully preserved merchant houses offer glimpses into the lives of Hoi An's prosperous trading families. The Tan Ky House, dating back nearly two centuries, showcases a perfect blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese architectural influences. The Phung Hung House features a charming courtyard and unique "crab shell" ceiling, while the Quan Thang House displays exquisite carvings that have survived centuries. These homes remain occupied by descendants of the original families, maintaining the living heritage of the ancient town.

Hoi An Central Market

Located along the riverfront, this vibrant market has been the commercial heart of Hoi An for centuries. The covered market area buzzes with activity from dawn until mid-afternoon, with vendors selling fresh produce, local specialties, and household goods. The adjacent food market offers an incredible array of street food stalls where you can sample Hoi An's famous dishes. Early morning visits provide the most authentic experience as locals do their daily shopping.

Thu Bแป“n River and Boat Rides

The lifeblood of Hoi An, the Thu Bแป“n River has shaped the town's history and continues to define its character. Traditional wooden boat rides, particularly in the evening when thousands of lanterns illuminate the water, offer magical perspectives of the ancient town. The river also provides access to nearby fishing villages, palm-lined waterways, and the opportunity to see traditional fishing methods still practiced today.

Museum of Folk Culture

Housed in a beautiful two-story traditional building, this museum showcases the rural life and crafts of the Quang Nam province region. Exhibits include traditional farming tools, fishing equipment, textiles, and handicrafts, providing context for the cultural traditions that continue to thrive in the Hoi An area. The museum offers valuable insights into the lives of the people beyond the tourist-focused ancient town.

Things to Do: Activities & Experiences

Hoi An offers an incredible diversity of activities that allow visitors to engage with its culture, history, and natural surroundings in meaningful ways.

Cultural & Historical Activities

Ancient Town Exploration

Purchase a Hoi An Entrance Ticket (120,000 VND) that grants access to five heritage sites including old houses, assembly halls, and museums. Explore at leisure or join a guided walking tour for deeper insights.

Lantern Making Classes

Learn the traditional craft of silk lantern making from local artisans. These hands-on workshops typically take 1-2 hours and you get to take home your beautiful creation.

Traditional Music Performances

Attend nightly traditional music shows at designated heritage houses or catch impromptu performances in the streets during festivals. Bai Choi folk singing is particularly unique to the region.

Culinary Experiences

Cooking Classes

Join a Vietnamese cooking class that typically includes a market visit to select ingredients, hands-on preparation of classic dishes, and of course, enjoying the delicious results.

Food Tours

Explore Hoi An's incredible street food scene with a knowledgeable local guide who can introduce you to hidden food stalls and explain the stories behind each dish.

Countryside Cycling & Farming

Cycle through rural villages, visit local farms, and even try your hand at traditional farming methods like water buffalo plowing or rice planting (seasonal).

Nature & Relaxation

Beach Time at An Bang

Relax at An Bang Beach, a beautiful stretch of white sand lined with casual beach bars and restaurants. The water is generally calm and perfect for swimming.

Basket Boat Rides in Coconut Forest

Experience the unique Cam Thanh Coconut Forest in traditional circular bamboo basket boats, often including entertaining spinning demonstrations by local boatmen.

River Cruises at Sunset

Take a boat ride along the Thu Bแป“n River as the sun sets and Hoi An's lanterns begin to glow. Evening cruises often include floating lantern releases.

Activity Tip: For photography enthusiasts, the golden hours (sunrise and sunset) provide magical light for capturing Hoi An's beauty. The ancient town is particularly photogenic in the early morning before the crowds arrive. Many activities are weather-dependent, so have indoor alternatives planned for rainy days.

Food & Drink: Hoi An's Culinary Magic

Hoi An's cuisine reflects its history as an international trading port, with unique dishes found nowhere else in Vietnam. The town is rightly famous as one of Vietnam's culinary capitals.

Signature Dishes to Try

Cao Lแบงu

Hoi An's most famous dish features thick rice noodles, slices of barbecue pork, fresh herbs, and crispy croutons, all in a light savory broth. The unique noodles can only be made with water from specific local wells.

White Rose Dumplings (Bรกnh Bao Bรกnh Vแบกc)

These delicate shrimp dumplings resemble white roses, made from translucent white dough bunched up to look like flower petals. Made exclusively by one family who guards the recipe closely.

Bรกnh Mรฌ Hoi An

While bรกnh mรฌ is found throughout Vietnam, Hoi An's version is particularly famous, especially from Madame Khanh (the "Banh Mi Queen") and Phuong Banh Mi, both legendary among food lovers.

Hoร nh Thรกnh (Wonton Dumplings)

Hoi An's version of wontons shows clear Chinese influence, served either fried like crispy cups filled with meat and vegetables, or in a soup with noodles and broth.

Cฦกm Gร  Hoi An (Hoi An Chicken Rice)

Fragrant rice cooked in chicken stock and turmeric, served with shredded chicken, fresh herbs, and a special dipping sauce. Simpler than other versions but incredibly flavorful.

Fresh Seafood

Being a coastal town, Hoi An offers incredibly fresh seafood prepared in various Vietnamese styles. Don't miss grilled squid, clams in lemongrass, and whole fried fish.

Recommended Restaurants

Restaurant Location Price Range Specialty
Morning Glory Restaurant Ancient Town $$ Sophisticated Vietnamese street food, cooking classes
Madame Khanh - The Banh Mi Queen Ancient Town $ Legendary bรกnh mรฌ with secret pรขtรฉ recipe
Nu Eatery Ancient Town $$ Creative Vietnamese fusion, beautiful presentation
White Rose Restaurant Ancient Town $$ Traditional Hoi An dishes, family recipes
Street Food Stalls Central Market & throughout town $ Authentic local dishes, incredible value

Drinks & Cafรฉs

Hoi An's cafรฉ culture is thriving, with options ranging from traditional Vietnamese coffee shops to stylish modern cafรฉs:

  • Vietnamese Coffee: Try both hot and iced versions, the latter often with sweetened condensed milk (cร  phรช sแปฏa ฤ‘รก)
  • Herbal Teas: Various local herbal infusions, some with medicinal properties
  • Fresh Fruit Juices & Smoothies: Made with tropical fruits like mango, dragon fruit, and soursop
  • Local Beer (Bia Hoi): Fresh draft beer available at local establishments
  • Hoi An Roastery: Popular local coffee chain with multiple locations and excellent coffee

Dining Tip: Don't be afraid to try street food—it's often the most authentic and delicious. Look for places popular with locals, and ensure the food is cooked fresh to order. For the full Hoi An food experience, take a food tour early in your stay to learn about the local specialties, then return to your favorites independently.

Shopping: Tailors, Crafts & Lanterns

Hoi An is a shopper's paradise, famous for its custom tailoring, beautiful handicrafts, and of course, the iconic silk lanterns that illuminate the ancient town.

Custom Tailoring

Hoi An is world-famous for its custom tailoring services:

  • Suits, dresses, and shirts made to measure in 24-48 hours
  • Bring photos of styles you want copied
  • Allow time for multiple fittings
  • Quality varies—research reputable tailors

Best Areas: Throughout Ancient Town, particularly Tran Phu Street

Handicrafts & Souvenirs

Beautiful locally made crafts and souvenirs:

  • Silk lanterns in various sizes and designs
  • Embroidery and textiles
  • Lacquerware and ceramics
  • Wood carvings and artwork

Best Areas: Night Market, specialty craft shops

Local Products & Food Items

Delicious and unique local products:

  • Local coffee and tea
  • Spices and cooking ingredients
  • Traditional Vietnamese sweets
  • Handmade soaps and natural products

Best Areas: Central Market, specialty food shops

Culture & Local Life: Timeless Traditions

Beyond the tourist attractions, Hoi An's rich cultural traditions and community life continue to thrive, offering visitors opportunities for meaningful connections and authentic experiences.

Festivals & Cultural Events

Hoi An's calendar is filled with traditional festivals that reflect its diverse cultural heritage. The most magical is the monthly Full Moon Festival when the Ancient Town turns off electric lights and glows with lantern and candle light. Other important celebrations include Tet (Lunar New Year), Mid-Autumn Festival with children's lantern processions, and various community festivals honoring local deities and historical figures.

Traditional Crafts & Living Heritage

Hoi An remains a center for traditional Vietnamese crafts, with many families continuing generations-old trades. Beyond the famous tailors and lantern makers, you'll find wood carvers, ceramic artists, embroidery specialists, and mat weavers practicing their crafts much as their ancestors did. Many workshops welcome visitors to observe and even try their hand at these traditional skills.

Local Community Vibe

Despite its popularity with tourists, Hoi An maintains a strong sense of community and traditional Vietnamese values. The pace of life remains relatively slow, with mornings dedicated to work and markets, afternoons to rest during the heat of the day, and evenings to socializing and family time. The local people are generally warm and welcoming to visitors who show respect for their customs and traditions.

Cultural Tip: Learn a few basic Vietnamese phrases—"Xin chร o" (hello), "Cแบฃm ฦกn" (thank you), and "ฤแบนp quรก" (very beautiful) will be appreciated. When visiting homes, temples, or some shops, remember to remove your shoes. Always ask permission before taking photographs of people, particularly in more private moments or during religious observances.

Practical Information

Proper planning ensures a smooth and enjoyable visit to Hoi An. Here's essential information to help you prepare.

Weather & Best Times to Visit

Season Months Weather Conditions Recommended Activities
Dry Season Feb-Jul Hot, sunny, lower humidity; temperatures 25-35°C Beach time, cycling, outdoor exploration
Wet Season Sep-Jan Cooler, rainy, potential flooding; temperatures 20-28°C Cultural sites, cooking classes, indoor activities

Money & Costs

Currency: Vietnamese Dong (VND)
Typical Costs (per day):
- Budget traveler: 500,000-800,000 VND (guesthouse, street food, bicycle)
- Mid-range: 1,200,000-2,500,000 VND (hotel, restaurant meals, activities)
- Luxury: 3,000,000+ VND (resort, fine dining, private tours)

Ancient Town Entrance Ticket

To visit the main heritage sites in the Ancient Town, you need to purchase an entrance ticket (120,000 VND) that grants access to five sites from a list of 22. The ticket is valid for your entire stay and helps fund preservation efforts.

Safety & Emergency Information

Hoi An is generally very safe, but standard precautions apply:

  • Be cautious when swimming—heed warning flags at beaches
  • Secure valuables and use hotel safes when available
  • Be aware of potential flooding during the wet season
  • Drink bottled water and be mindful of food hygiene

Emergency Numbers:
- General Emergency: 113
- Police: 113
- Medical Emergency: 115
- Fire: 114

Hidden Gems: Off the Beaten Path

Beyond the main tourist trail, Hoi An offers several lesser-known attractions that provide more authentic experiences and escape the crowds.

Tra Que Vegetable Village

This peaceful farming village just north of Hoi An specializes in growing fragrant herbs and vegetables using traditional methods. Visitors can join farming activities, enjoy cooking classes using the fresh produce, and experience rural life away from the tourist crowds.

Thanh Ha Pottery Village

Located about 3km west of Hoi An, this centuries-old pottery village offers a more authentic alternative to the more touristy handicraft demonstrations. Watch artisans create beautiful pottery using traditional techniques and even try making your own.

Kim Bong Carpentry Village

Accessible by boat on Cam Kim Island, this village has been famous for woodworking since the 16th century. The skilled craftsmen here created much of the intricate woodwork in Hoi An's ancient buildings and continue their trade today.

Early Morning Market Visits

While the Central Market is popular, visiting before 7am provides a completely different experience as locals do their daily shopping before the tourist crowds arrive. The energy and authenticity are unparalleled.

Hidden Cafรฉs & Rooftop Views

Seek out smaller, less obvious cafรฉs tucked away in the Ancient Town's back streets. Some offer hidden rooftop terraces with beautiful views away from the main tourist thoroughfares.

Local Temples Beyond the Ancient Town

While the assembly halls in the Ancient Town are beautiful, venturing to local neighborhood temples provides more authentic glimpses of daily religious practices without the crowds.

Suggested Itineraries

Whether you have a day or a week, these itineraries will help you make the most of your time in Hoi An.

24-Hour Itinerary

Morning: Early exploration of Ancient Town heritage sites before crowds arrive, including Japanese Bridge and merchant houses.
Afternoon: Lunch at local restaurant, then bicycle ride to An Bang Beach for swimming and relaxation.
Evening: Lantern-lit boat ride on the river, followed by dinner at a renowned Hoi An restaurant.

3-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Ancient Town Immersion
Morning: Heritage site visits with Ancient Town ticket.
Afternoon: Cooking class or food tour.
Evening: Night market exploration and lantern boat ride.

Day 2: Countryside & Crafts
Morning: Bicycle tour to Tra Que Vegetable Village and farming experience.
Afternoon: Lantern making class and tailor visits for clothing orders.
Evening: Fine dining experience and traditional music performance.

Day 3: Beach & Relaxation
Morning: Beach time at An Bang with swimming and beach club relaxation.
Afternoon: Spa treatment or basket boat ride in coconut forest.
Evening: Final tailor fittings and farewell dinner.

Family Itinerary

Morning: Basket boat ride in coconut forest with spinning demonstration.
Afternoon: Beach time with swimming and sandcastle building.
Evening: Lantern making class and night market exploration.

Nearby Destinations

Hoi An makes an excellent base for exploring other fascinating destinations in central Vietnam.

My Son Sanctuary

This UNESCO World Heritage site features impressive Hindu temple ruins from the Champa Kingdom, dating from the 4th to 14th centuries. Located about 40km from Hoi An, it makes an excellent half-day trip.

Da Nang

Vietnam's third-largest city offers modern attractions including the Dragon Bridge, Marble Mountains, and beautiful beaches. Just 30 minutes from Hoi An, it provides a contrasting urban experience.

Hue

The former imperial capital of Vietnam, about 3 hours north of Hoi An, features the Imperial City, royal tombs, and rich history. The journey itself over the Hai Van Pass is spectacular.

Cham Islands (Cu Lao Cham)

This archipelago about 15km offshore offers excellent snorkeling, diving, and pristine beaches. Day trips are available, or stay overnight for a more immersive island experience.

Ba Na Hills

Famous for the Golden Bridge held by giant stone hands, this hill station offers cooler temperatures, beautiful gardens, and entertainment complex. About 1 hour from Hoi An.

Quang Ngai

For history enthusiasts, this area includes sites related to the My Lai Massacre and beautiful rural landscapes less visited by tourists. Approximately 2 hours south of Hoi An.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Hoi An different from other ancient towns in Southeast Asia?

Hoi An's unique charm lies in its exceptional state of preservation combined with its living, breathing community. Unlike many historical sites that feel like museums, Hoi An remains a vibrant town where people live, work, and maintain traditions in the ancient buildings. The blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, Japanese, and European architectural influences creates a distinctive aesthetic found nowhere else, while the lantern-lit evenings and pedestrian-friendly streets create an atmosphere of magical timelessness.

How does the custom tailoring process work in Hoi An?

The tailoring process typically begins with selecting your style (bring photos or designs), choosing fabrics, and taking measurements. You'll return for a first fitting within 24 hours where adjustments are marked. Most tailors require 2-3 fittings over 2-3 days to ensure perfect fit and finish. Quality varies significantly between tailors, so research reputable ones and be clear about your expectations. The best tailors will be honest about what can be achieved with different fabrics and within time constraints.

Is Hoi An suitable for travelers with mobility issues?

While the Ancient Town's uneven streets and footbridges can present challenges, many areas are accessible. The main streets are relatively flat, and many restaurants and shops have ground-level access. For those with significant mobility issues, staying near the Ancient Town rather than in it might be more comfortable. Many resorts offer excellent accessibility features, and cyclo rides can provide an alternative way to explore areas that might be difficult to navigate on foot.

What should I know about Hoi An's flooding season?

Hoi An experiences seasonal flooding typically between October and December, with the highest water levels often in November. While flooding can disrupt activities, many businesses are well-prepared with raised walkways and plastic bags for crossing flooded streets. Some visitors actually enjoy the unique experience of wading through the floodwaters. During this period, have flexible plans, waterproof your belongings, and consider staying in areas less prone to flooding like the beach or slightly outside the Ancient Town.

How authentic is the Hoi An experience given its popularity with tourists?

While the Ancient Town can be crowded with tourists, authentic experiences abound for those willing to venture beyond the main streets. The early mornings, surrounding countryside, local neighborhoods, and non-peak season visits offer much more authentic interactions. Hoi An remains a living town where traditional crafts, farming, and fishing continue, and the local community maintains its cultural practices alongside the tourism industry.

What's the best way to handle the heat and humidity in Hoi An?

Plan activities around the weather—sightsee in the early morning and late afternoon, rest during the hottest part of the day (perfect for long lunches or spa treatments). Stay hydrated, wear light clothing, and take advantage of Hoi An's many air-conditioned cafรฉs and shops. Many hotels have pools that provide refreshing breaks. The beach also offers natural cooling with sea breezes.

Is it better to stay in the Ancient Town or at the beach?

This depends on your priorities. Staying in or near the Ancient Town offers convenience for exploration, evening activities, and atmospheric surroundings. Beach accommodation provides relaxation, resort amenities, and escape from crowds. Many visitors split their stay or choose accommodation that offers easy access to both. Bicycles and taxis make moving between areas simple, so you're never far from either experience regardless of where you stay.

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