Hoi An Ancient Town lantern walk
An atmospheric evening stroll through Hoi An's UNESCO-listed Old Town when lanterns light up the streets and the Hoai River. The walk combines cultural sight‑seeing, photography opportunities, local snacks, and the chance to release a floating paper lantern on the river. It can be experienced as a self-guided wander or as part of small guided tours led by local guides who explain the history and symbolism of the lanterns and the town's architecture.
Location
Hoi An Ancient Town (Old Quarter) — along the Hoai River and lantern-lit streets, Hoi An, Vietnam
Duration
1–2 hours (self-guided); 1.5–3 hours (guided, with boat ride)
Best Time to Visit
Evenings (~6:00 PM–9:30 PM). Especially special on the monthly Full Moon Lantern Festival (usually the 14th day of the lunar month). Best months for pleasant weather: February–April and September–November.
Pricing
Self-guided: Free to wander; lantern purchases and river releases typically 20,000–100,000 VND per lantern (~US$1–5). Guided small-group tours: ~150,000–500,000 VND per person (~US$6–20), depending on inclusions (lantern, boat ride, snacks). Prices rise during festivals.
Activity Type
Coordinates
Highlights
Strolling under thousands of colorful paper lanterns illuminating narrow streets and riverside
Releasing a floating paper lantern on the Hoai River for wishes and photos
Views of the Japanese Covered Bridge, Fujian (Phuc Kien) Assembly Hall and well-preserved wooden shop-houses
Traditional music and occasional small cultural performances on the riverside
Local street food and riverside cafés serving cao lau, banh mi, and Vietnamese coffee
Photographer-friendly scenes with reflections of lanterns on the water
Night market stalls selling silk lanterns, handicrafts and tailor-made clothing
Itinerary
Meet-up / arrival in the Old Town; begin at iconic landmarks (e.g., Japanese Covered Bridge)
If guided, meet your guide at a prearranged point; otherwise start near the river to feel the evening atmosphere.
Leisurely walk through lantern-lit lanes and historic streets
Stops for architecture and history explanations (guided) and photo opportunities.
Visit night market stalls and choose a paper lantern
Buy a lantern (biodegradable/paper recommended) and optional incense/wax candle or LED insert.
Optional short boat ride on the Hoai River and lantern release
Many tours include a small wooden boat. Follow the boatman/guide's instructions for safe release. There may be a small fee if not included.
Enjoy street food or riverside café with traditional music (seasonal)
Try local dishes such as cao lau, white rose dumplings and Vietnamese coffee.
Free time for shopping, photos and soaking the atmosphere
Tailor shops often open late — you can view samples or pick up evening purchases.
Tour ends — walk back or continue exploring independently
Old Town is often closed to motor traffic from early evening, making it pedestrian-friendly.
Safety Requirements
Watch your step on uneven cobbles and small bridges; wear comfortable shoes
Be mindful of fire safety when handling candle-lit lanterns; consider using LED inserts if available
Respect local rules: some nights or zones may restrict releasing lit lanterns for fire prevention
Keep valuables secure — tourist areas can attract pickpockets during busy evenings
Follow boatman and guide instructions for boarding, seating and releasing lanterns to avoid accidents
If you have allergies or sensitivity to smoke/incense, avoid candle-lit lanterns or request an LED version
Tips
Bring small change (VND) for lanterns, boat fees and street food — many vendors are cash-only
Best photo window: shortly after sunset when lanterns are lit but there's still a bit of sky light
If you want the Full Moon Lantern Festival experience, arrive early — streets and bridges can be very crowded
Buy biodegradable paper lanterns and avoid releasing large flame-lit lanterns during dry season
Consider a guided walk for local stories, history and the best photo spots
Respect religious and cultural offerings; do not step on or disturb incense and altars outside temples and houses
Charge your phone/camera battery — lighting and long-exposure shots are popular
If prone to seasickness, take precautions before a boat ride; boat trips are short but can be on a small wooden vessel
