UNESCO heritage site Hoi An has launched a tourism stimulus programme with the participation of travel and services companies to attract tourists.

Hoi An Ancient Town in the festive atmosphere. 

The programme, to be held three times this year, will offer discounts on hotel rooms and tourism services and give tourists gifts.

From February 1 to March 3 there will be a traditional craft villages festival, an international food festival, and the Vietnam – ASEAN silk culture festival.

From May 1 to September 2, to promote tourism in summer, the country's peak travel period, Hoi An will organise 14 events and festivals, including the Cu Lao Cham whale worship festival, and the 14th Vietnam – Japan culture exchange.

The third occasion, from November 20 to January 1, will feature a Heritage Day event and New Year celebrations.

The ancient city of Hoi An in central Quang Nam province was a renowned international trade port in the 17th century where ships from Japan, China, and European countries docked to exchange wares.

Covering 60 square kilometres, Hoi An has 22.5 square kilometres of agriculture and forest land and 11 square kilometres of lakes and channels.

Hoi An welcomed the eight-millionth visitor to the ancient city late last month.

VNA