Hoi An: Lantern and Coffee Making Class

Exploring the Heart of Hoi An: Lantern and Coffee Making Class

This engaging experience in central Vietnam combines two of Hoi An’s most beloved traditions: Vietnamese coffee and lantern craftsmanship. For just $24 per person, you’ll spend about 3.5 hours immersed in local culture, guided by friendly, knowledgeable family-run guides who make learning fun and authentic. The tour begins behind Viettin Bank and ends back at the same spot, making it easy to fit into a day of sightseeing.

What we love most about this experience are the detailed insights into Vietnamese coffee techniques—especially how the Phin filter produces such deep, flavorful brews—and the chance to create a beautiful, foldable lantern that you can take home. Plus, the relaxed atmosphere means you can truly enjoy the process and the flavors.

One thing to keep in mind is that the workshop involves making and tasting multiple coffees, which could be a lot if you’re not a heavy coffee drinker or if you’re sensitive to caffeine. However, this is a small trade-off for the rich experience of understanding local brewing methods.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate hands-on cultural activities, love good food and craftsmanship, and want a family-run experience that offers genuine insight into Hoi An’s traditions. It’s especially suited for those who enjoy interactive learning and want to leave with a handmade souvenir.

Key Points

Authentic Vietnamese Coffee: Learn how to brew five different types, including egg coffee and Hue salt coffee.
Creative Lantern Crafting: Make your own foldable lantern, a unique souvenir you can pack home.
Local Guides: Guided by family members from Hoi An, offering personal stories and tips.
Taste and Enjoy: Sip on your freshly made coffees with cookies in a cozy setting, complemented by soothing music.
Value for Money: At $24, the experience includes multiple coffees, lantern creation, and guided instruction.
Family-Owned Charm: Both workshops are run by friendly, humorous family members, adding warmth and authenticity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Discovering a Rich Cultural Tradition in Hoi An

Nestled in the charming streets of Hoi An, this combined Lantern and Coffee Making Class offers more than just a quick activity—it’s an immersive journey into the heart of Vietnamese daily life and craftsmanship. The experience is designed to be both educational and fun, catering to travelers eager to go beyond typical sightseeing.

Starting at a central meeting point near Le B Truyen restaurant, we’re greeted by guides who are clearly passionate about their craft. Over the next few hours, we learn about the significance of Vietnamese coffee—from dark roasted beans to the methods used to achieve the perfect brew. The highlight here is mastering the Phin filter, a simple yet effective device that produces a deep, robust flavor, unlike the instant coffees many travelers are used to.

The guides share stories about how Vietnamese enjoy their coffee—whether it’s white coffee with sweetened condensed milk, egg coffee with a creamy top, or salty Hue coffee—adding context that makes each sip taste even better. As one reviewer put it, “We learned lots and got a Phin to take away, which was great!” We loved the way the guides explained the roasting process and helped us prepare each type, making it accessible even for absolute beginners.

Once our five types of coffee are brewed and tasted—often paired with cookies or herbal tea—we move on to the lantern workshop. This part of the experience is pure creativity: choosing fabrics, working with bamboo, and carefully folding the lanterns. The guides help us navigate from scratch or using a pre-made frame, making sure everyone leaves with a beautiful, foldable lantern that’s easy to pack for travel.

The reviews frequently mention the guides’ humor, friendliness, and helpfulness—“The guys are hilarious,” as one said, making the experience relaxed and memorable. The fact that both workshops are family-run adds a layer of authenticity many travelers appreciate.

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A Deep Dive into the Coffee Experience

We loved the way this class demystifies the art of Vietnamese coffee. It’s not just about drinking but understanding. Our guides took us through the process of dark roasting and the importance of condensed milk for creating that signature sweetness. Each of the five coffee types has its own story: from the black coffee to the Coconut coffee, every sip is a reminder of Vietnam’s diverse coffee culture.

What makes this class stand out is the quality of instruction and the relaxed atmosphere—you’re encouraged to ask questions, taste freely, and just enjoy the moment. The fact that we could take home our Phin filter and use it back home is an added bonus, making this more than a souvenir but a way to keep a piece of Vietnam with us.

Reviewers repeatedly mention how delicious the coffees are—“the coffees are delicious,” and “we made 5 different types and loved them all”—showing that value is high for the modest price. It’s a hands-on lesson that offers a tangible takeaway and a taste for the real Vietnamese way of brewing coffee.

Crafting a Unique Lantern in Hoi An

The lantern segment is equally engaging. For many, learning how to make a lantern from scratch is a highlight. You get to pick fabrics, work with bamboo, and learn about the traditional symbols behind these glowing decorations. The guides teach you how to compress your lantern for easy packing, making it practical to carry home.

One reviewer shared, “The lanterns look like professionals made them,” which is high praise considering we were beginners. The entire process is relaxed and fun, with guides providing patience and humor throughout. You leave with a personalized lantern—not a mass-produced souvenir but a handcrafted one that captures the spirit of Hoi An’s iconic lantern festival.

Plus, since the lanterns are foldable and portable, you won’t have to worry about transporting a bulky item. Many mention the joy of having a beautiful, tangible reminder of their trip that can be displayed at home or gifted to loved ones.

Practical Details and What to Expect

This experience is designed for small groups, ensuring plenty of personalized attention. The tour lasts around 3.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on availability. Since it’s family-run, the guides tend to be very friendly, humorous, and eager to share their knowledge.

You’ll meet behind Viettin Bank and finish back at the same spot, so it’s easy to coordinate with your day’s plans. The price includes cookies, herbal tea or water, coffee, and the guide. Not included are hotel transfers, so plan to meet at the designated spot.

The activity is wheelchair accessible, and the guides speak English, making it easy for international travelers to follow along. Just remember to bring a camera—so many colorful fabrics and beautiful coffee moments are worth capturing.

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Authentic, Value-Packed, and Fun

Based on countless positive reviews, this tour offers genuine value. The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge make it more than just a craft class; it’s an engaging cultural lesson. The combination of learning about Vietnam’s coffee traditions and creating a beautiful lantern provides a well-rounded, memorable experience.

Many reviewers highlight the humor and warmth of the guides, which elevates the experience from a simple workshop to a heartfelt introduction to family-run Vietnamese hospitality. The delicious, strong coffees and the personalized craftsmanship are the two standout features that keep people coming back in reviews.

While it’s a relatively short activity, the time feels well-spent and relaxing. It’s best suited for travelers who enjoy interactive workshops, learning local traditions, and leaving with a handmade souvenir. If you’re looking for a fun, authentic way to spend an afternoon in Hoi An, this class hits the mark.

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Final Thoughts

This Lantern and Coffee Making Class offers a unique glimpse into Hoi An’s vibrant culture. It balances hands-on learning with authentic storytelling, making it a memorable activity for individuals, couples, and families alike. The price is reasonable considering the quality of instruction, the fun of creating your own lantern, and the delicious variety of Vietnamese coffees you’ll taste.

The guides’ warmth and humor turn what could be a simple craft session into a lively cultural exchange. If you’re looking to deepen your appreciation of Vietnam’s traditions—beyond just sightseeing—this experience is a fantastic choice.

For anyone wanting to bring home a beautiful handcrafted lantern and a new appreciation for Vietnamese coffee, this tour combines both perfectly. It’s especially ideal for those who enjoy interactive, family-run activities and want an experience that is both fun and educational in a relaxed setting.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes five types of Vietnamese coffee, cookies, herbal tea or water, and a guided lantern-making session.

Is hotel pickup available?
No, hotel pickup is not included. You meet at a designated spot behind Viettin Bank and finish there as well.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience takes about 3.5 hours.

Are there different start times?
Yes, check availability for the specific starting times, as they vary.

Is the activity suitable for all ages?
Yes, the activity is family-friendly, and wheelchair accessible.

Can I buy additional lanterns or coffee?
Yes, many reviews mention purchasing extra lanterns and coffee at reasonable prices.

Do I get to take my lantern home?
Absolutely, your lantern is foldable, lightweight, and easy to pack.

What should I bring?
Bring a camera to capture your creations, and maybe a small bag to carry your lantern and souvenirs.

Is it a good value for the cost?
Definitely—considering the quality of instruction, the variety of coffees, and the handcrafted lantern, it’s a great deal.

To sum it up, this tour is a lively, authentic way to spend an afternoon in Hoi An. You’ll leave with new skills, a beautiful handmade lantern, and a deeper appreciation for Vietnam’s cherished traditions. Perfect for curious travelers who love engaging activities, warm local guides, and cultural insights. Whether you’re a coffee enthusiast or simply want a memorable souvenir, this experience delivers on all counts, making it a highlight of any trip to this charming town.