Lantern Making class with Ms. My in Local’s Home

Imagine wandering through Hoi An’s ancient streets at night, illuminated by colorful lanterns in every shape and size. For just $9 per person, you can not only witness this magical scene but also learn how to craft your own lanterns in a cozy local setting. This tour, which lasts about an hour, offers you a chance to connect with Hoi An’s vibrant culture through a hands-on activity guided by Ms. My, a local expert passionate about sharing her craft. All you need is a love for authentic experiences and a curiosity for Vietnamese traditions.

We particularly appreciate the personalized attention this small-group tour offers—limited to just 15 people—making it easy to ask questions and get a real sense of local life. Two standout features are the unique opportunity to make your own lantern and the stunning night scenery of Hoi An’s old town, beautifully lit by flickering lanterns. The hassle-free hotel pickup and drop-off add convenience, allowing you to relax and fully enjoy the moment.

A possible consideration is that the admission ticket isn’t included—so you’ll want to budget a few extra dollars if you wish to explore further or purchase drinks. This experience suits travelers who enjoy cultural activities, want memorable souvenirs, and prefer authentic, less touristy encounters. If you’re in Hoi An and looking for a meaningful way to spend an evening, this class delivers excellent value and genuine insight into local traditions.

Key Points

• Authentic Craftsmanship: Learn how to make a traditional Vietnamese lantern with a local expert.
• Cultural Immersion: Gain insights into Hoi An’s history through a hands-on activity in a welcoming home setting.
• Beautiful Nightscapes: Witness the enchanting glow of Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets after sunset.
• Convenience: Includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Small Group: Limited to 15 people, ensuring personalized attention.
• Affordable Price: At just $9, this is a fantastic way to connect with local culture without breaking the bank.

A Deep Dive into the Lantern Making Experience

Discovering Hoi An’s Night Atmosphere

The moment you step into Hoi An’s ancient town at night, you’ll notice how the streets transform into a fairy tale of flickering lights. Lanterns are more than just decorations—they are woven into the very fabric of local identity, a blend of Vietnamese, Japanese, and Chinese influences. Strolling along these streets, you’ll see lanterns hanging from balconies, lining the river, and floating in the night sky, creating a scene that’s both romantic and historically evocative.

Making Your Own Lantern with Ms. My

The highlight of this experience is, of course, the hands-on lantern making class. Ms. My, who guides you in her local home, explains the traditional techniques used for creating these beautiful lamps. Expect to work with colorful paper, bamboo frames, and a small light source—though the specifics aren’t detailed, what’s certain is that you’ll leave with a handcrafted lantern as a keepsake.

Guests have praised the guide’s expertise, with one reviewer calling Milk “one of the best guides we’ve ever had,” highlighting the importance of a knowledgeable, friendly host in making this activity special. The process is designed to be accessible—even for non-artists—so everyone, regardless of skill level, can produce a charming lantern.

The Cultural Significance

Beyond the craft, this tour offers a glimpse into the cultural exchange that has shaped Hoi An. The lanterns symbolize good fortune, hope, and the Vietnamese love for light—meaning this activity isn’t just about making a pretty object but also about understanding local beliefs and traditions. As you craft, you’ll learn about how these lanterns are used during festivals and special occasions, deepening your appreciation for the city’s vibrant culture.

The Setting and Atmosphere

This experience takes place in Ms. My’s welcoming home, providing a cozy, intimate environment that contrasts with the often bustling streets of Hoi An’s market area. The small-group format ensures that you’ll have plenty of opportunity for interaction and questions, making it more personal and engaging.

Additional Comfort and Convenience

The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, which is especially appreciated after a day of sightseeing. It means you can relax, knowing transportation is sorted, and focus solely on enjoying the activity. Bottled water is provided, and at the end, you’ll receive a gift lantern—a beautiful souvenir to remind you of your time in Hoi An.

Who Is This Tour Perfect For?

This lantern-making class is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic, cultural activity that’s interactive and memorable. It caters well to families, couples, or solo travelers interested in Vietnamese traditions beyond the usual sightseeing. If you enjoy learning new skills, engaging with locals, or simply soaking in the ambiance of Hoi An at night, this tour delivers a wonderful combination of all three.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Price: $9.00 per person, offering excellent value considering the culture and craftsmanship involved.
• Duration: About 1 hour, making it a convenient evening activity that won’t take up your entire night.
• Availability: Book well in advance—an average of 6 days ahead—to secure your spot.
• Meeting Point: Located on ng Phan Bi Châu in Hoi An, with hotel pickup included.
• Group Size: Limited to 15 people for intimate, personalized attention.
• Additional costs: Admission tickets are not included, so budget a few extra dollars if you plan on purchasing other items or drinks.

Authenticity and Real Traveler Feedback

Two reviews highlight the genuine charm of this experience. One traveler described it as “an amazing morning lantern making and coconut boat tour,” appreciating the care and expertise of the guides and the seamless logistics—like hotel pickup. Another reviewer, who booked it during a quiet day in Hoi An, noted that even with a small group, the tour still ran smoothly, and the guide “Milk” was among the best they’d encountered.

Such comments underscore that this isn’t a scripted or overly commercialized activity. Instead, it’s about connecting with local culture through craft and conversation, making your visit more meaningful.

The Sum Up

This lantern-making tour in Hoi An offers much more than just a souvenir. It provides an authentic glimpse into Vietnamese culture, a chance to meet a welcoming local guide, and the opportunity to create a beautiful handcrafted lantern to take home. The combination of cultural insight, personal interaction, and the enchanting night scenery makes it a standout activity for anyone wanting a deeper, more personal experience in Hoi An.

If you love crafting, learning about local traditions, or simply enjoying the magical glow of lantern-lit streets, this tour is a perfect fit. It’s affordable, intimate, and rich with genuine cultural value—an experience you’ll cherish long after you leave Vietnam.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, it’s accessible for most ages, especially those interested in arts and crafts. The activity is simple enough for children and provides a fun, educational experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it easy to relax and focus on the activity without worry about logistics.

What is the cost of the lantern after the workshop?
The tour price is $9, but admission tickets aren’t included—you might want to budget a few extra dollars if you plan to explore further or buy drinks, which are available for purchase.

How long does the activity last?
Approximately 1 hour, making it a perfect short evening activity that fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Can I participate if I don’t speak Vietnamese?
Absolutely. The guide, likely fluent in English, will explain the process clearly, ensuring everyone can follow along and enjoy the experience.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable clothes suitable for crafting; all supplies are provided. Just bring your curiosity and perhaps a camera to capture your creation and the beautiful night scenery.