The vibrant, multicolored lights illuminating a corner of the sky are a unique feature of Hoi An’s Lantern Street every evening. Visiting the ancient town at any time of the year allows tourists to admire intricately crafted and eye-catching lanterns hanging throughout the streets and alleys. Lantern Street in Hoi An is a popular check-in spot that attracts many visitors, especially the younger crowd, during the night. Lanterns are considered the indispensable “soul” of the ancient town, captivating the attention of every visitor.
1/ Overview of Lantern Street in Hoi An
In ancient times, Hoi An was renowned as the most bustling international trading port and a stopping point for merchants from around the world. It was considered the convergence point of the “Silk Road at Sea” and a melting pot of various cultures. Lanterns in Hoi An originated from this rich history. With a history of over 400 years, these lanterns bring together the essence of Chinese, Vietnamese, and Japanese cultures, creating an irresistible charm.
2/ The Historical Ups and Downs of Hoi An Lanterns
Many believe that Hoi An lanterns have their origins with migrants from regions like Thái, La, Châu, who came from Guangdong, China, in search of a better life. Bringing lanterns with them and hanging them on their doors helped ease their homesickness. Over time, this tradition was adopted by the locals and has been maintained as a cultural beauty until today.
The “ancestor” of lantern crafting in Hoi An is known as Xã Đường, specializing in various handicrafts such as lanterns and lion heads. Huỳnh Văn Ba, an artisan, played a pivotal role in reviving the enchanting and mystical Hoi An by recreating lantern designs. He introduced lanterns made from bamboo frames and cloth covering, a style that persists today. Ba was even invited multiple times by the Japanese government to guide lantern making in Vietnam.
After centuries, present-day Hoi An lanterns are exquisitely perfected and more beautiful. Lantern crafting has become a distinctive feature of the ancient town, serving as a highlight for Hoi An tourism and leaving a lasting impression on visitors.
3/ Unique Cultural Experiences at Lantern Street in Hoi An
Held from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. on the 14th day of the lunar month, Lantern Street in Hoi An is adorned with the dazzling lights of thousands of lanterns, creating an impressive scene combined with various entertaining activities. This is also a beautiful and unforgettable check-in location for tourists.
Every night, the streets of Hoi An are lit with thousands of colorful lanterns, which embody the essence of this quaint ancient town. When you visit Hoi An, you’ll find yourself enveloped in a magical world of light, where time seems to stand still. It is believed that the lanterns were brought to Hoi An by Japanese and Chinese merchants, who arrived in the town via their trading boats. As a result, the lanterns are not just decorations, but also embody the cultural and historical significance of this former trading port.
4/ Famous Places Near Lantern Street in Hoi An
When visiting Hoi An, besides experiencing Lantern Street, you can explore and check-in at other culturally rich places such as Hoi An Night Market, Ong Pagoda, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, Hoai River in Hoi An, and the famous Yellow Alley in Hoi An.
On full moon days (the 14th to 15th of every month on the lunar calendar), the lantern festival is celebrated by turning off all electricity and allowing only the ethereal light of the lanterns to illuminate the town. During the festival, you can also purchase flower lanterns and release them into the river, as a symbol of your hopes and prayers.
