It all began with a beautiful love story between Princess Ngoc Hoa, a member of the native Hue royal family, and Japanese merchant Sotaro Araki in the late 16th century. At that time, Hoi An was known as Faifo and attracted numerous Japanese merchants for trading. After their marriage, the couple returned to Nagasaki to set up an emporium. The Princess whose Japanese name was Wakaku was fondly accepted by local residents and became known by the lovely name Anio san. This marriage is regarded as the very first between a Vietnamese and foreigner.