Hoi An :Lantern Making – Cooking Class -Coconut Basket Boat

A Hands-On Day in Hoi An: Lantern Making, Cooking, and Bamboo Basket Boats

Planning a trip to Hoi An? This tour offers a richly textured experience that combines craftsmanship, local cuisine, and traditional river rides. For around $34 per person, you’ll spend roughly 4.5 to 6 hours exploring Cam Thanh Coconut Village, making your own lanterns, learning to cook Vietnamese specialties, and floating along serene coconut forests in a bamboo basket boat.

Two things we particularly love about this experience: First, the hands-on nature of creating a keepsake lantern to take home — a delightful souvenir that’s both practical and heartfelt. Second, the opportunity to experience local life firsthand, from fishing with traditional nets to paddling a bamboo basket boat through lush coconut groves.

A possible consideration is that market visits may vary depending on the time of day, as some reviews mention the market can be closed in the afternoon. It’s also worth noting that the tour is designed to be family-friendly, with options for children under 4 and vegetarian or vegan meals, but some travelers might prefer more time at individual stops.

This tour is ideal for travelers eager to see more than just the sights — it’s perfect if you want to learn local crafts, cook regional dishes, and experience rural life in a relaxed, friendly group setting. If you’re the kind of person who enjoys interactive, authentic activities, this is a great fit.

Key Points

• Authentic local experiences including lantern making and basket boat riding
• Learn traditional Vietnamese recipes with a knowledgeable English-speaking chef
• Explore Cam Thanh Coconut Village and see coconut palms and rural life firsthand
• Enjoy a relaxing boat trip through coconut forests on bamboo baskets
• Create a handmade lantern to take home as a memorable souvenir
• Flexible options for food restrictions and family participation

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Hoi An Experience

When you sign up for this tour, you’re signing on for more than just sightseeing. It’s a chance to step into the local world of Hoi An’s surrounding villages, with activities carefully designed to involve you directly. The experience is ideally suited for travelers who value culture, hands-on activities, and authentic local food.

How the day unfolds

Your morning begins with a hotel pickup in Hoi An or Da Nang, making transportation hassle-free. If you’re staying in Hoi An, you’ll appreciate the convenience of being collected directly from your accommodation, eliminating the need to navigate unfamiliar streets or find meeting points. The tour limits groups to just 14 participants, ensuring a friendly, personal atmosphere.

Your first stop is a local market, where you can bargain with vendors and select fresh ingredients for your upcoming cooking class. This element really adds authenticity — you see the vibrant colors, hear the lively chatter, and get a taste of everyday life. Some reviews note that the market might be closed later in the day, so if you’re keen on the market experience, the morning slot might suit you better.

Next, you’ll transfer to Cam Thanh Coconut Village, a tranquil area surrounded by coconut palms. Here, the highlight is the bamboo basket boat ride — a slow, peaceful journey through lush coconut groves and river channels. You’ll enjoy stunning views, and perhaps even try traditional fishing techniques with local guides, who teach you how to cast nets just like Vietnamese fishermen. It’s a chance to see rural life up close, and the activity is often described as both fun and relaxing.

One of the tour’s signature moments is making your own lantern. Crafted by skilled artisans, this activity results in a beautiful paper lantern you can take home as a personal souvenir. As one reviewer noted, “We loved making lanterns — everything went seamlessly, and it was a fun, creative break in the day.” The lantern reflects Hoi An’s cultural identity, and creating it yourself offers a meaningful connection to the town.

Cooking in a local home

After the river adventures, you’ll shift gears and head to a local restaurant or home for a Vietnamese cooking class. The host, an English-speaking chef, will guide you through preparing four regional dishes. Expect to learn traditional techniques, such as using fresh herbs, balancing flavors, and handling typical ingredients.

The cooking process is interactive, and the class is designed for people of all skill levels. Whether you’re a seasoned home chef or just a curious beginner, you’ll find the instructions clear and approachable. The local recipes you learn can be recreated at home, bringing a taste of Vietnam to your own kitchen.

Once you’ve finished cooking, you’ll enjoy a delicious meal featuring your own creations, which is a satisfying way to conclude the culinary part of your day. The included lunch or dinner (depending on your schedule) is a true highlight, showcasing fresh, authentic flavors.

Additional touches

Throughout the day, you’ll be treated to local drinks as a welcome and at various stops. The tour also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility if your travel plans change. It’s a small-group experience, which means more personalized attention and the chance to ask questions or get tailored recommendations.

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Practical considerations

The tour’s length of 4.5 to 6 hours offers a relaxed pace, but be prepared for some walking, boat rides, and participation in hands-on activities. It’s suitable for families, with free participation for children under 4 who don’t engage in some activities, and vegetarian options are available if you specify. Remember, drinks are not included, so you might want to bring water or purchase beverages during the day.

Why This Tour Stands Out

What makes this experience worth considering is its blend of culture, cuisine, and community. You don’t just observe — you actively participate in local traditions. From crafting lanterns to paddling bamboo boats through coconut forests, you’ll gain an appreciation for the simplicity and beauty of rural life that’s often missed in more traditional sightseeing tours.

Many travelers praise the knowledgeable guides who make each activity engaging and fun. One reviewer called their guide “excellent,” noting she participated in all activities and enhanced the overall experience. The stunning views of coconut palms and quiet river channels add a peaceful backdrop to the day, and the delicious food makes the experience even sweeter.

Authenticity and value

At $34 per person, the tour provides great value, considering all included activities, meals, and transfers. The fact that you get to take home a handmade lantern is a lovely bonus, offering a tangible memory of your day.

Who should consider this tour?

This experience suits adventurous travelers, families with children, or anyone eager to get beyond the typical tourist spots. It appeals to those interested in local crafts, traditional fishing, and regional cuisine. If you enjoy interactive activities and want to connect with Vietnamese culture in a relaxed setting, this tour will likely be a highlight of your trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour offers pick-up and drop-off services in Hoi An and Da Nang city centers, making it easy to join without extra logistics.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4.5 to 6 hours, depending on the schedule and group pace.

Can I participate if I have food restrictions?
Yes, vegetarian and vegan options are available, and you should inform the guide ahead of time about any food allergies or restrictions.

What activities are included?
You’ll visit a local market, ride a bamboo basket boat, make a lantern, and learn to cook regional dishes. The focus is on hands-on participation.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children under 4 can join free but won’t participate in some activities. The tour is family-friendly but best suited for those comfortable with moving around and participating in activities.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, casual clothing suitable for walking, splashing in water, or participating in cooking activities. Readiness for some outdoor exposure is recommended.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included, so bring water or purchase beverages during the day if needed.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a well-rounded look into local life in Hoi An’s rural surroundings. You’ll leave with hands-on skills, delicious recipes, and a beautiful lantern to remind you of your experience. It’s perfect for travelers who want more than just photos — they want connections, crafts, and flavors.

The combination of craftsmanship, river adventure, and cooking makes for a memorable, engaging day. The small group size ensures a more personalized experience, and the flexible options suit different schedules and dietary needs.

If you’re after an authentic, interactive, and culturally enriching adventure in Vietnam, this tour ticks all the boxes. Expect fun, learning, and plenty of picture-worthy moments that will stay with you long after you’ve returned home.

Whether you’re a culture buff, a foodie, or simply curious about rural Vietnamese life, this tour offers a meaningful way to experience Hoi An beyond the usual sights. It’s a chance to create your own souvenirs, learn regional dishes, and enjoy the peaceful beauty of coconut forests. For anyone looking for an active, authentic, and affordable day, this tour is a solid choice.

You can check availability for your dates here: