Hoi An lantern: Showing a long-standing tradition and cultural beauty

Contents

Hoi An is a top tourist attraction in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

1. The origin of Hoi An lantern and the lantern-making tradition

Several hundred years ago, Hoi An was a famous trading port where Chinese and Japanese merchants often came to exchange goods. Hoi An lantern is believed to have been brought here by the Chinese merchants. However, some locals think that the lantern was actually made by Hoi An’s ancient artisans. Until now, the question of the origin of Hoi An lantern still has no exact answer.

Hoi An was a trading port in the early 18th century (Source: Collected)

Over the years, the locals have constantly improved and creatively made the lanterns more diverse in designs and materials. The method of making lanterns has also been improved, so that they can appear in not only traditional spaces, such as in festivals or pagodas, but also in more modern places such as hotels and parks.

A local family in Hoi An making lanterns (Source: Collected)

The main materials for making Hoi An lanterns are bamboo and silk. The bamboo used to make the lantern frame is old bamboo soaked in salt water to prevent termites. The bamboo is then dried and thinned to match the size of the lantern.

Hoi An lantern frame made of bamboo (Source: Collected)

Silk is chosen because it is tough enough to not be torn when stretched on the lantern frame. Hoi An people like to use Ha Dong silk to wrap lanterns. Silk makes the light of Hoi An silk lantern even more magical and vivid.

Silk is used to make Hoi An lanterns (Source: Collected)

2. The cultural significance of Hoi An lanterns

Visitors can find hundreds of lanterns in Hoi An with various colors and patterns. It can be lucky red, cheerful yellow, beautiful brocade, or sweet blue. When the lanterns are lit, the patterns of white clouds, blue sky, or sea waves will shine on the whole street.

Hoi An lanterns with various colors (Source: Collected)

There are even centuries-old lanterns that are passed down in families from generation to generation. They are only displayed on the night of Hoi An lantern festival. These lanterns were made from precious wood and intricately carved.

Hoi An lanterns lighting up the streets (Source: Collected)

Hence, if you have the opportunity, travel to Hoi An on the occasion of the lantern festival. At this time, admiring the ancient lanterns shining bright through the street in the festive atmosphere will be an unforgettable experience. And don’t forget to take photos with these lanterns in the background.

3. Process of making Hoi An lanterns

Making Hoi An lanterns involves two key steps: crafting the frame and covering it with fabric.

• Frame construction: Traditionally made from aged bamboo soaked in saltwater to resist pests, then dried and shaped, or using metal for durability. Simple lanterns require balanced ends, while intricate designs need precise shaping for harmony.
• Fabric covering: Silk, brocade, or other sturdy fabrics are stretched over the frame. Artisans ensure smooth, precise edges to create lanterns that are lightweight, durable, and visually stunning.

Modern Hoi An lanterns come in various sizes and shapes, from basic designs to elaborate zodiac models, and many are collapsible for easy transport.

A Hoi An lantern workshop lets visitors create beautiful lanterns while experiencing traditional craftsmanship (Source: Collected)

According to TripAdvisor, learning to make Hoi An lanterns is one of the top 10 must-do experiences for visitors to Vietnam in 2023. As part of this unique activity, tourists receive step-by-step guidance from skilled instructors, covering the entire lantern-making process. From shaping bamboo strips and forming the frame to cutting fabric, applying glue, and assembling the lantern, participants gain hands-on experience in this traditional craft. This immersive experience is a highlight among Hoi An things to do, offering a deeper connection to the local culture and craftsmanship.

4. When does Hoi An lantern festival take place?

The lantern festival in Hoi An Ancient Town is an event that aims to preserve the beauty of the indigenous culture. On this occasion, at some tourist sites in Hoi An, you can participate in the activity of releasing lanterns on Hoai River. The lanterns represent the people’s wishes for luck and happiness in life.

To immerse in the beauty and vibrant atmosphere of Hoi An Vietnam lantern festival, visitors can come here on the 14th day of every lunar month and especially on the full moon night of the Mid-Autumn Festival. During the festival, all houses and shops have their lights turned off. Instead, they will hang lanterns, creating a shimmering space all over the town.

Hoi An Lantern Festival takes place monthly(Source: Collected)

5. The top places to take great photos with Hoi An lanterns

Walking around Hoi An Ancient Town, visitors will see a great number of places decorated with Hoi An lanterns, where visitors will be able to take countless impressive photos:

5.1. Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town is a famous tourist destination of Quang Nam province, an old town that has been kept almost intact with more than 1,000 architectural monuments, such as streets, communal houses, pagodas, temples, wells. A visit to Hoi An city of lanterns will surely captivate visitors with its timeless beauty and idyllic vibe.

Hoi An Ancient Town shimmering in the lantern light (Source: Collected)

5.2. Japanese Bridge Hoi An

Japanese Bridge Hoi An is a well-known attraction in Hoi An. It is located in the heart of the ancient town, crossing over the enchanting Hoai River. The bridge is a stunning historical work that combines the architecture and culture of Vietnam and Japan. It is often likened to a bridge connecting the past, present, and future of the ancient town.

The Japanese Bridge – a symbol of Hoi An (Source: Collected)

5.3. VinWonders Nam Hoi An

VinWonders Nam Hoi An is a magnificent amusement park featuring the contrasting cultural features of the East and West. This is where Vietnam’s historical, aesthetic, and traditional values are preserved and developed, along with many exciting entertainment activities from all five continents of the world.

VinWonders Nam Hoi An offers various entertaining activities

Book VinWonders Nam Hoi An ticket now

Hoi An lanterns are a traditional beauty of Hoi An in particular and also a highlight of Vietnamese culture in general. In the shimmering light of the colorful lanterns, Hoi An becomes even more beautiful than ever. If you have the opportunity to visit Vietnam, don’t forget to visit Hoi An and take countless beautiful photos on Hoi An lantern streets.