Hoi An Full Lantern Making Class- A special Foldable lantern

If you’ve ever wandered through the glowing streets of Hoi An at night, you’ll know that lanterns are more than just pretty lights—they’re woven into the city’s soul. This Lantern Making Class offers a chance to craft your own silk lantern, a keepsake that folds away neatly into your luggage. It’s a lively, hands-on experience that combines artistry, local culture, and a touch of fun—all for just over $15.

What we love about this experience is how accessible and engaging it is, especially for those interested in authentic Vietnamese traditions. You’ll work with friendly, knowledgeable guides who truly understand the craft, making the process feel both educational and enjoyable. Plus, the inclusion of Vietnamese herbal tea adds a relaxing, authentic touch. One potential consideration is the location—since it’s about a 20-minute walk from central exploration areas, it might require a bit of planning to fit into your day. This activity suits travelers who want a meaningful, creative activity that yields a striking souvenir and offers insight into local customs.

Key Points

• Authentic Cultural Experience: Learn the traditional art of lantern-making directly from local artisans.
• Creative Hands-On Activity: Make a foldable silk lantern, choosing from various shapes and colors.
• Value for Money: At around $15, you get a full 2-hour class, your handmade lantern, tea tasting, and personalized instruction.
• Family-Owned Atmosphere: Many reviews highlight the warm, friendly vibe created by the local family running the workshop.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choose between morning and afternoon classes to fit your travel plans.
• Authentic Souvenir: Take home a beautiful, foldable lantern that’s more than just a decoration—it’s a story you created.

The Experience in Detail

How to Reach the Workshop

The class takes place in the Cam Pho district of Hoi An. You’ll want to arrive on time at 8 Trần Cao Vân, where the artisans’ workshop is located. The activity begins with a warm welcome from your host, a master lantern-maker, who instantly makes you feel at home. Since the meeting point is near public transportation, reaching it is relatively straightforward, though it’s about a 20-minute walk from the more tourist-heavy spots. This walk is a good chance to soak in the local streets, perhaps catching glimpses of families and small shops.

The Introduction and Cultural Context

Once settled, your instructor will offer you traditional herbal tea, which helps set a relaxed, welcoming tone. They’ll share some background on the significance of lanterns in Hoi An—locals believe they bring happiness, luck, and wealth. From the start, the guides (often family members or young, friendly staff) emphasize the importance of the craft, which has been passed down through generations.

Hands-On Lantern Making

The core of the experience is crafting your own foldaway silk lantern. You’ll choose from a variety of colors and shapes—popular options include lotus, diamond, and sunrise or sunset designs. The guides are praised for their patience and attention, helping you assemble the bamboo frame and attach the silk fabric smoothly. Multiple reviews mention how everyone gets individual attention, so even beginners can produce a beautiful result.

One reviewer, Nina_P, appreciated how the family-run aspect was clear, noting how much they knew about lantern history and how passionate they were about sharing it. Others, like Jacquelyn_M, valued how the class was well-paced, and nobody felt rushed. The process involves assembling bamboo stakes, attaching wire to form the shape, and stretching the silk around the frame. The guides often add a bit of humor or music (some sang along to ABBA or Bruno Mars, per reviews), making the atmosphere lively and memorable.

The Final Touch and Takeaway

Once your lantern is complete, you’ll insert it into a hanger and add a tassel if you wish. The guides are diligent in fixing mistakes, ensuring you leave with a beautifully crafted lantern. The fact that the lantern folds flat makes it an ideal souvenir—you can easily pack it away without worry.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For the price, this tour offers a lot of value. Included are the herbal tea, water, your completed foldable lantern, and the guidance of an English-speaking instructor. The experience is family-friendly, and most travelers find it suitable regardless of age or skill level.

However, note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included—you’ll need to make your own way there. This is a minor point but worth considering when planning your day.

Authentic Insights from Reviewers

Many who took the class mention the warmth and enthusiasm of the guides. Sharonda_W called it “fun learning,” and several reviews highlight how the family running the workshop genuinely cares about their craft. One reviewer, Suzanne_G, described the entire experience as “an absolute must-do,” emphasizing the skill and dedication of the instructors. People also loved how they could see their personal effort reflected in their finished lanterns, making it a meaningful souvenir.

The playful, engaging atmosphere shines through in reviews mentioning singing and interaction. Jeanne_M noted how the young, energetic team made the experience extra special, and Nikki_v remarked on the cheerful sing-alongs, which added a delightful, jovial tone to the activity.

Duration and Group Size

The class lasts around 2 hours, plenty of time for a relaxed, thorough craft session. Though the maximum group size is 90 travelers, most seem to experience smaller, more intimate classes—reviewers often mention the helpfulness and friendliness of their guides, regardless of group size.

Overall Value and Suitability

This class is ideal if you’re looking for an interactive cultural activity that results in a tangible memento. It’s especially good for those with an interest in Vietnamese traditions, arts, or handcrafted souvenirs. Families, couples, and solo travelers alike find it accessible, thanks to the patient guides and straightforward process.

The Sum Up

This lantern-making class in Hoi An offers a fantastic blend of culture, creativity, and authentic craftsmanship. For just over $15, you’ll walk away with a beautiful, foldable silk lantern—an eye-catching reminder of your time in Vietnam. The experience is especially rewarding because it’s led by friendly, knowledgeable locals who genuinely love sharing their craft. The inclusion of tea tasting, the relaxed pace, and the opportunity to learn traditional techniques make it one of the most memorable activities in Hoi An.

While it’s a bit of a walk from the main tourist spots, the journey is part of the experience—giving you a chance to soak up local street scenes. The class’s value is evident, especially considering the quality of instruction and the unique souvenir you’ll take home. Perfect for those who enjoy hands-on activities and want a meaningful story behind their keepsake, this workshop isn’t just about making a lantern—it’s about connecting with Hoi An’s vibrant culture.

If you’re after a fun, engaging, and authentic activity that offers a tangible reminder of Vietnam’s artistic traditions, this lantern-making class is a great choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is hotel pick-up included in this tour? No, hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to make your own way to the meeting point at 8 Trần Cao Vân.

How long does the experience last? The class is approximately 2 hours long, giving enough time for detailed instruction and ample opportunity to craft your lantern.

Can I choose the shape and color of my lantern? Yes, you can select from various shapes like lotus, diamond, sunrise, or sunset, and pick your preferred color silks.

Is this activity suitable for children? Most travelers report that the activity is accessible to all ages and skill levels, making it family-friendly.

What’s included in the price? Your fee covers herbal tea, water, guidance from an English-speaking instructor, and your finished foldable lantern.

Is there an option to schedule the class in the morning or afternoon? Yes, you can choose a morning or afternoon session, depending on your schedule.

What makes the lanterns special? Locals believe hanging lanterns in front of their houses brings luck, happiness, and wealth. Making your own adds a personal touch to this tradition.

How difficult is the process? While the process involves multiple steps, many reviewers highlight how patient guides help ensure everyone produces a beautiful lantern, regardless of experience.

Is this experience worth the cost? Absolutely. With hands-on participation, personalized guidance, and a unique souvenir, many find the cost very reasonable compared to other cultural activities in Hoi An.

In summary, this lantern-making class offers a wonderful combination of learning, creating, and culture. It’s a fantastic way to connect with Hoi An’s artistic heritage, leave with a beautiful handmade keepsake, and enjoy a couple of relaxing hours in a friendly, family-run environment.