Lantern making class and Tra Que Bike Tour

Exploring Vietnam’s charming town of Hoi An isn’t complete without experiencing its local traditions firsthand. This Lantern Making Class and Tra Que Bike Tour offers a well-rounded peek into rural life, blending scenic cycling, organic farming, and creative craft-making—all wrapped up in a relaxing half-day adventure. While it’s a short experience, it’s packed with engaging activities that give you a taste of true Vietnamese culture.

What we love about this tour? First, the easygoing bike ride through Tra Que village offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Hoi An, with stunning views of rice fields and water buffalo. Second, the hands-on lantern making is both fun and accessible—no prior skills needed—and makes for a charming souvenir. Lastly, the local interaction during farming activities and the delicious bowl of Pho for lunch elevate the whole experience, making it more authentic.

However, one point to consider is that the timing might be tight for those wanting a leisurely pace, especially if you want to linger longer at each stop. Also, children under 3 aren’t able to participate in lantern making, and there’s a small extra fee for kids aged 3 and over. For those who appreciate genuine local experiences and don’t mind a bit of physical activity, this tour fits perfectly.

This experience suits travelers looking for an authentic, fun, and educational outing that combines rural scenery with craft and cuisine. It’s especially great for families, solo travelers, or couples wanting a taste of Vietnamese village life without a long commitment.

Good To Know

• Authentic local experience: Visit Tra Que, an organic vegetable farm using seaweed fertilizers.
• Scenic cycling: Ride through rice paddies, water buffalo, and tranquil waterways.
• Creative activity: Make your own handmade lantern with expert guidance—no skills required.
• Includes lunch: Enjoy a traditional bowl of Pho, adding to the culture.
• All-in-one package: Bicycle, guide, activities, lantern, and lunch included for just $35.
• Convenient logistics: Hotel pickup and drop-off included, making it hassle-free.

A Detailed Look at the Experience

Starting the Adventure: Easy Pickup and Briefing

The tour begins with a simple 8 AM pickup from the designated meeting point at Hoi An Food Tour, located on Trn Quang Khi Street. From there, it’s a short drive to the cycling start point, setting the tone for a relaxed day. The small group size—capped at 15 travelers—ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

Pedaling Through Tra Que Village

About 15 minutes by bike from the bustling town, Tra Que village is a hidden gem that reveals the quiet beauty of Vietnamese rural life. Here, what makes the experience special is the organic farming methods—using seaweed as fertilizer—that produce vibrant, chemical-free herbs and vegetables. The guide, who is known to be quite knowledgeable and enthusiastic (as one reviewer noted), helps you understand the farming practices and even invites you to try your hand at rice paper making or farming work.

Expect to see water buffalo lazily soaking in the mud, a sight that many find adorable and quintessentially Vietnamese. The ride itself is easy and suited for most fitness levels, with flat terrain and slow-paced routes that allow you to soak in the scenery.

Interacting with Locals

One of the highlights, as shared by visitors, is the chance to connect with local farmers. The guide facilitates interactions that feel genuine and engaging, providing insights into traditional agricultural life. These moments make the visit more than just sightseeing—they offer a glimpse into the daily routines of Vietnamese villagers.

Lunch Time: Savoring Vietnam’s Comfort Food

After the cycling, everyone gathers for a light lunch, which is, as expected, a hearty bowl of Pho. This meal isn’t just a filler; it’s part of the authentic cultural exposure, giving you a satisfying taste of Vietnam’s most famous noodle soup. Several reviews emphasize how this simple meal caps off the experience nicely, tying the day together with warm, flavorful food.

Lantern Making: A Creative, No-Skill-Required Craft

The highlight for many is the one-hour lantern making class. The workshop involves creating a 30cm lantern, which travelers get to keep as a memento. The process is straightforward and fun—perfect even if you’ve never crafted anything before. The reviewer who enjoyed making lanterns appreciated the guidance, describing the activity as both enjoyable and memorable.

For children aged 3 and above, there’s an option to pay a small extra fee ($10) to participate, meaning the entire family can join in the fun. The review from a traveler mentions that everyone enjoyed the interaction and creativity involved.

Ending the Tour

The tour wraps up around 12:30 PM back at the meeting point, making it easy to continue exploring Hoi An or head to your next activity. The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours and 30 minutes, providing a compact yet satisfying cultural outing.

Analyzing the Value

At just $35 per person, this tour offers a significant amount of value. It combines transportation, guides, activities, lunch, and souvenirs—all bundled into a half-day package that’s perfect for travelers wanting an authentic taste of rural Vietnam. The inclusion of a handmade lantern adds a personal touch that many find memorable, and the interaction with local farmers enriches the cultural experience beyond what typical sightseeing offers.

The tour’s small group size and professional guide (noted for their enthusiasm and language skills) mean you’ll get personalized attention and insights that enhance your understanding of the surroundings. Plus, the flexibility—such as hotel pickup and drop-off—makes it a stress-free choice.

Practical Considerations

While the tour is mostly suitable for most travelers, keep in mind that a moderate level of mobility is needed for the biking part. Children under 3 cannot participate in lantern making, and the extra fee for kids over 3 is very reasonable. The timing is fixed, so if you prefer a slower, more relaxed day, be aware that the schedule is quite structured.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for travelers seeking an authentic slice of Vietnamese village life in a manageable timeframe. It’s perfect for families, couples, or solo explorers eager to combine outdoor activity, cultural learning, and hands-on creativity. If you’re a foodie, the inclusion of Pho makes it even more appealing. Those interested in eco-friendly farming and craftsmanship will also find it rewarding.

The Sum Up

This Lantern Making Class and Tra Que Bike Tour strikes a great balance between fun, culture, and relaxation. It offers an authentic look into rural life with the bonus of a creative activity and delicious local food—all at a very reasonable price. The knowledgeable guides and stunning scenery make it a memorable half-day outing that feels genuine and personalized.

For travelers who want to see a different side of Hoi An—away from the busy streets and tourist traps—this tour provides a meaningful, hands-on experience that leaves you with a handmade souvenir and new stories to tell. If you appreciate culture, outdoor activities, and local interactions, this trip is a wonderful choice.

FAQs

Is transportation included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, making it convenient to start and end the tour without additional hassle.

Do I need to be experienced at cycling?
No, the bike ride is easy and suitable for most fitness levels, with a relaxed pace through flat terrain.

How long is the lantern making class?
The lantern making session lasts about 1 hour, and you leave with your own 30cm lantern.

Can children join this tour?
Children 6 and older can participate, with a child’s bicycle available upon request. Kids over 3 can make a lantern for an extra $10.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for cycling and activities. Sunscreen and a hat are recommended, especially if it’s sunny.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
The included lunch is a traditional Pho, but it’s best to check with the provider beforehand if you have specific dietary needs.

How many people are in each group?
The group size is limited to 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and attentive experience.

What makes this tour stand out?
The combination of scenic rural cycling, interaction with local farmers, and a creative lantern-making activity makes it uniquely engaging.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, allowing flexibility for your travel plans.