Hoi An Old Town was Vietnam’s international port and a key stop on the world’s silk road. Nowadays, it is regarded as one of the world’s twenty most attractive nightlife destinations. It’s wonderful during the day, but the stunning and romantic splendor of Hoi An at night is simply breathtaking. One of the most exciting experiences in the old town is a Hoi An Lantern Boat ride down and the release of flower lanterns on the Thu Bon River (Hoai River).
Hoi An Lantern Boat on the Thu Bon River provides travelers a great chance to view stunning landscape, as you sail the glistening river, decked with various bright lights. It is an unforgettable experience that combines peacefulness, cultural immersion, and natural beauty. As you go along the enchanting waterways of Hoi An, you will be transported to a world of timeless beauty.
1. What is the significance of Hoi An Flower Lanterns and Hoi An Lantern Boat?
Lantern refers to flower lights, which may be described simply as people lighting up the place with bright flower lights. This activity has spiritual significance and is a traditional element of both the Hoi An people and Vietnamese people in general. The residents of Hoi An still retain and maintain it as a festival custom, an image that represents both the people and tourism.
Aside from the symbolism of traditional cultural beauty, releasing Hoi An lanterns has significant spiritual significance for both locals and tourists. When you light a flower lantern, it’s like saying a prayer for luck and tranquility for yourself and your loved ones. Taking the boats and dropping Hoi An Flower Lanterns on them is believed by the locals to bring good health and wealth.
2. What are the costs and hours of operation for the Hoi An Lantern Boat Ride?
- Boat prices:
From 1-3 persons: 150.000 VND each boat.
From 4-5 persons: 200.000 VND each boat.
- Daily operating hours: 4 P.M. to 9.30 P.M.
The lantern boat will take you into the lower part of Thu Bon river in 20 minutes per trip. Expanding your view, you will notice the locals’ residences along both banks of the river. The local hardworking people, with their sun-kissed complexion, have long been linked to the water, preserving their traditional fishing lifestyle in this region. This gorgeous setting provides a look into the everyday life of the locals.
3. How do you get to Hoi An Lantern Boat Ride?
The majority of Hoi An lantern boat trip activities take place in the ancient town, specifically on Bach Dang and Chu Van An streets. If you wish to take a lantern boat excursion in Hoi An, you should first visit the ancient town and then proceed to the Japanese bridge. A little distance from here, you will arrive at the Hoi An bridge area, which is home to the most brilliant lantern boats.
If you are still afraid to go, you may not be in a hurry to rent right away; instead, walk down Bach Dang Street and you will see additional lantern boats. There will be a board that connects the rocky shore to the boat, so don’t be worried. The Hoi An lantern boat ride will begin once everyone has taken their seats on the boat.
4. What are the experiences of Hoi An Lantern Boat?
Hoi An Lantern Boat on Thu Bon River is a unique attraction for a variety of reasons. First and foremost, it provides a one-of-a-kind opportunity to experience the timeless splendor of Hoi An’s lantern-lit streets and river. The sight of hundreds of colorful lanterns illuminating the river creates a dreamy and romantic atmosphere. On full moon days, in particular, a lantern boat trip down the Thu Bon River makes it even more romantic. The moonlight was bright and round, reflecting on the river like an ink picture created by an accomplished artist.
Second, it provides guests with an opportunity to see Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage, since lanterns represent prosperity and good fortune in Vietnamese custom. What makes it even more unique is that the boat rider in Hoi An rows by hand. As a result, the boat will travel at a sedate pace, allowing guests to fully appreciate Hoi An’s natural beauty. And, while having a lantern boat trip in Hoi An, gliding gently on the Thu Bon River, the boatman will tell you an anecdote about what was once known as Hoi An port. The narration, combined with what we see about Hoi An’s historic works and architecture, gradually becomes clearer in your mind.
Finally, Hoi An Lantern Boat on Thu Bon River offers a tranquil and serene retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, allowing you to rest and appreciate nature’s beauty. Nothing is better than releasing lights in the middle of Thu Bon river. Additionally, hoping good fortune for yourself, your family, your lover, or your friends. It will be a lovely experience to drop flower lanterns of various colors into the riverbed and watch them glide down the water. The bright light from the boat lanterns and flower lanterns transforms the entire picturesque Thu Bon River into a prayer heaven.
5. When is the best time to take a lantern boat ride in Hoi An?
The best time to take a Hoi An lantern boat ride is between January and April. During this time, the weather in Hoi An is extremely nice, with plenty of sunshine and little rain. It is the ideal time to explore the Hoai River, soak up the sun’s warmth, and enjoy the refreshing freshness of the river air. It is best to take a boat in Hoi An at night because the nighttime is undoubtedly more brilliant and glittering, and the boats are also more busy. In the evening, the entire old town appears to light up, reflecting on the river as if to present a more romantic and mysterious picture of the town. And, if feasible, go on the first, 14th, and 15th of the lunar month; if you are too busy, go on the 7th. At this time, many people release lanterns into the Hoai River.
Aside from this best season, you may also take a lantern boat ride in Hoi An throughout the dry season from May to September. Hoi An is currently sunny and hot, but it is also convenient for lantern boat excursions and sightseeing. Because it is quite cool and comfortable in the evening, there is no need to worry about rain interfering with your journey.
If you visit in January, expect to see a spectacular scene as you venture out onto the river. This month’s unique event features the release of lanterns, resulting in a spectacular spectacle. The river is illuminated with shimmering lights, giving a magical glow over the surroundings. This mesmerizing show creates a scene of exceptional beauty, instilling a sense of wonder and peace within you.
6. Where can you buy Flower Lanterns?
Flower Lanterns are widely available along the Thu Bon River’s banks. They are made of extremely simple paper and cost very little. Locals, including the elderly and children, sell flower lanterns for as little as 5.000 VND each. If you’re excellent at haggling, you can get it for 10.000 VND/3 pieces. If you don’t want to stand on both sides of the river to drop down the lanterns, you can rent a Hoi An lantern boat costs 350.000 VND for 40 minutes/6 passengers, including the lanterns.
Hoian Old Town, a historic town in Vietnam known for its cultural history and gorgeous surroundings, invites visitors to discover its hidden treasures and immerse themselves in its timeless beauty. An outstanding Hoi An Lantern Boat excursion is an excellent opportunity for tourists to experience the tranquillity and charm of Hoi An.