BlogWhen visiting Hoi An, travelers are often captivated by the colorful silk lanterns hanging above narrow streets, traditional yellow houses and riverside cafés. These beautiful lanterns have become one of the most recognizable symbols of the ancient town, creating a magical atmosphere, especially after sunset.
But beyond admiring their beauty, visitors can experience something even more memorable: learning how to make a traditional Hoi An lantern with their own hands.
Joining a lantern-making workshop is a wonderful way to discover local craftsmanship, interact with Vietnamese artisans and create a personalized souvenir to take home. Whether traveling alone, as a couple or with family, this hands-on cultural activity offers a different perspective on Hoi An’s traditional heritage.
1. The Story Behind Hoi An’s Colorful Lanterns
Lanterns are an essential part of Hoi An’s cultural identity. Their presence reflects the town’s history as an important international trading port, where Vietnamese, Chinese and Japanese communities interacted and influenced one another.
Historical records document the use of lanterns in Hoi An during the 18th century. Over time, local artisans developed distinctive designs using bamboo frames and colorful fabrics, transforming lanterns into an important feature of the town’s architecture and everyday life.
Today, lanterns can be seen throughout the Ancient Town, hanging outside family homes, restaurants, cafés, temples and traditional merchant houses.
They are also associated with wishes for happiness, peace and good fortune. During the monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival, colorful lanterns illuminate the streets and create a particularly enchanting atmosphere along the Hoai River.
2. What Happens During a Vietnamese Lantern-Making Workshop?
A lantern-making workshop allows visitors to learn about traditional craftsmanship through a simple, guided activity. Under the instruction of local artisans, participants follow several steps to create their own decorative lantern.
Most workshops last approximately 1–2 hours, depending on the class format and the level of participation.
Step 1: Choose Your Lantern Shape and Colors
The experience usually begins with selecting a lantern design and fabric color.
Traditional Hoi An lanterns come in various shapes, including round, diamond, lotus-inspired and garlic-shaped designs.
Visitors can choose from a range of colorful fabrics, allowing them to create a lantern that reflects their personal style.
(Source: Klook)
Step 2: Learn About the Bamboo Frame
Bamboo is the main material used to create the traditional lantern structure.
Local artisans carefully select, prepare and shape bamboo strips into flexible frames. During the workshop, visitors learn how these strips are arranged and connected to create the lantern’s distinctive shape.
Some classes allow participants to assemble the bamboo frame themselves, while others provide a prepared structure to make the activity easier for beginners.
Step 3: Attach the Fabric
This is one of the most enjoyable and delicate parts of the process.
Participants are guided through applying fabric to the bamboo frame, carefully stretching and securing it to achieve a smooth finish.
With the help of experienced artisans, even first-time visitors can create a beautiful lantern.
Step 4: Complete and Decorate Your Lantern
Once the fabric is attached, participants can add finishing details such as decorative tassels and other ornaments.
Depending on the workshop, visitors may also personalize their lantern with different colors, patterns or small decorative elements.
At the end of the class, everyone has a handmade lantern to take home as a special reminder of their time in Hoi An.
(Source: Lao Dong Newspaper)
3. Where Can You Join a Lantern-Making Workshop in Hoi An?
There are several places in and around Hoi An where visitors can experience this traditional craft.
Hoi An Ancient Town
The Ancient Town is one of the most convenient places to find lantern-making workshops.
Many family-run craft establishments welcome visitors who want to observe artisans at work or participate in hands-on classes.
After the workshop, travelers can continue exploring the historic streets, visit traditional merchant houses and enjoy the colorful lantern displays around the town.
(Source: Hoi An)
Hoi An Craft Workshops and Local Artisan Studios
For a more hands-on experience, visitors can join dedicated lantern-making classes operated by local artisans.
Some workshops offer complete sessions where participants learn to shape the bamboo frame, attach the fabric and finish their lantern. Others provide prepared frames, making the activity more accessible to families and travelers with limited time.
Hoi An Resorts and Craft Experience Centers
Some resorts and cultural experience centers in the Hoi An area also organize lantern-making activities for their guests.
These classes offer a convenient option for travelers who prefer a more relaxed setting while still learning about local craftsmanship.
It is advisable to check the available activities and reserve a place in advance, especially during busy travel periods.
4. Why Should You Try a Lantern-Making Workshop?
A lantern-making workshop is more than just a craft activity. It offers several ways to connect with the local culture.
Discover Traditional Vietnamese Craftsmanship
Visitors can learn how local artisans transform simple materials such as bamboo and fabric into beautiful decorative objects.
Interact with Local Artisans
The workshop provides an opportunity to meet local craftspeople, hear stories about their work and understand how traditional skills are passed down through generations.
Create a Personalized Souvenir
Instead of purchasing a ready-made lantern, visitors can create something themselves. Each lantern becomes a personal keepsake associated with their journey.
Enjoy a Family-Friendly Activity
The workshop is suitable for many types of travelers, including couples, families and groups of friends. Children can also participate with assistance from adults.
Take a Break from Sightseeing
After walking through the busy streets of Hoi An, spending an hour or two in a peaceful craft workshop can be a relaxing way to experience another side of the town.
5. Best Time to Enjoy a Lantern-Making Experience
Lantern-making workshops are generally available throughout the year, making them a flexible activity for visitors to Hoi An.
However, combining the workshop with an evening walk through the Ancient Town can make the experience even more memorable.
During the afternoon, visitors can participate in the craft activity and explore the town’s historical attractions. As evening approaches, the lanterns begin to glow, creating a beautiful atmosphere along the streets and riverbanks.
The monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival is another particularly interesting time to visit. On this occasion, the Ancient Town becomes especially lively with traditional decorations and lantern displays.
Visitors should check the local festival calendar before planning their trip, as dates follow the lunar calendar.
6. Useful Tips Before Joining a Lantern-Making Workshop
To make the most of the experience, consider these practical tips:
- Allow enough time: Most workshops take around 1–2 hours, so include sufficient time in your itinerary.
- Book in advance: Reservations are recommended during weekends, holidays and peak tourist seasons.
- Ask about the workshop format: Some classes include bamboo frame construction, while others focus mainly on attaching fabric to a prepared frame.
- Choose your preferred design: Ask the instructor about available lantern shapes, fabrics and colors before starting.
- Bring a camera: The colorful workshops and handmade lanterns offer wonderful photo opportunities.
- Plan your evening: Combine the activity with a walk around the Ancient Town to admire the illuminated lanterns.
7. Discover the Craft Traditions of Hoi An with Asia Pacific Travel
Hoi An is a destination where history, architecture and traditional craftsmanship come together to create unforgettable travel experiences.
Joining a lantern-making workshop allows visitors to go beyond sightseeing and take part in a local tradition. From choosing colorful fabrics to carefully attaching them to bamboo frames, every step offers a glimpse into the creativity and patience of Vietnamese artisans.
At Asia Pacific Travel, we believe that the best journeys are not only about visiting famous attractions but also about discovering the local culture through meaningful experiences.
Whether you are exploring the Ancient Town, joining a traditional craft workshop or enjoying the magical atmosphere of Hoi An at night, there are many ways to make your visit special.
Discover Hoi An with us and take home more than memories – create your own piece of Vietnamese craftsmanship.
