Special Lantern Making Class And painting on Silk Lantern

If you’re visiting Hoi An, Vietnam, and want an authentic, hands-on experience that goes beyond sightseeing, a special lantern making and painting class might just be your perfect pick. This small-group workshop offers a chance to craft your own iconic lantern while learning traditional Vietnamese art techniques, all in a relaxed, friendly setting.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the opportunity to paint on delicate silk lanterns—a craft deeply woven into Hoi An’s identity. Second, the chance to learn about Vietnamese calligraphy and watercolor styles from skilled instructors. Lastly, the finished lanterns are compact and portable, making them ideal souvenirs or heartfelt gifts.

Of course, a potential consideration is that this experience doesn’t include hotel transfers, so you’ll need to get to the workshop on your own. If you’re someone eager for a cultural activity that’s both creative and memorable, this tour suits travelers looking for an authentic, local craft workshop with great value.

Good To Know

• Hands-on craftsmanship: Make your own foldable lantern from bamboo and silk.
• Cultural insights: Learn about Vietnamese calligraphy and traditional painting techniques.
• Personalized experience: Small group setting ensures individual attention.
• Transportable art: Your finished lantern is easy to carry home.
• All-included materials: Everything from tools to paints is provided.
• Affordable price: At just over $30, it offers excellent value for an immersive activity.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting and Overall Atmosphere

From the moment you arrive at the Phi Hoang Gas Store in Hoi An, you’re welcomed into a warm environment that combines traditional decor with a calming ambiance. The experience begins with herbal tea and traditional Vietnamese music, setting a relaxed tone that makes even novices feel comfortable. The venue is small, with a maximum of 15 travelers, which ensures a personalized touch and hands-on guidance from the instructors.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The workshop seamlessly combines two core activities: making your own lantern and painting on silk fabric—both deeply rooted in local tradition. The entire session lasts about 3 hours, which strikes a good balance between educational content and creative fun.

Making Your Lantern

The first step involves choosing your preferred shape—options include diamond, garlic, lotus, or UFO shapes. The instructors patiently guide you through the process of constructing the lantern using bamboo frames and silk fabric. As one reviewer shared, the guides are very friendly and patient, helping even complete beginners create a beautiful, foldable lantern.

Importantly, these lanterns are lightweight and foldable, making them easy to pack and carry home—an aspect many travelers appreciate. One guest mentioned, “the lanterns I made are easy to transport, and I can’t wait to display it back home.”

Painting on Silk

Once your lantern is assembled and drying, it’s time for the artistic part. You’ll select a sample design or motif, perhaps inspired by local scenery or calligraphy, and learn how to apply traditional Vietnamese watercolor techniques. The master artist’s guidance makes this step accessible, even for those who aren’t used to painting.

A reviewer praised the talented instructor, describing the painting session as “such a fun time,” and appreciated the step-by-step assistance. The process is not rushed, allowing you to enjoy creating your personalized artwork on silk, a material known for its delicate beauty.

What You Learn and Take Away

Throughout the workshop, instructors share insights about the history of Hoi An’s bamboo and silk lanterns and demonstrate calligraphy styles, enriching your understanding of Vietnamese culture. The experience ends with a photo session as your lantern is lit up, highlighting how stunning your creation looks when illuminated.

Plus, each participant receives a bamboo script—a keepsake of your artistic journey—and the finished lantern is dried and handed over as a memento. Many guests noted that their lanterns were “beautiful,” and the guidance was “step-by-step and patient.”

Authentic Experience and Value

This tour is praised for excellent value—at just around $30, you get all materials, expert guidance, and a handcrafted souvenir. Based on reviews, guests consistently mention the high-quality instruction and the personalized attention they received, which makes the experience feel special rather than just a “tour.”

The small group size (max 15 people) ensures you’re not lost in a crowd, and the English-speaking guides make everything easy to understand, regardless of your language skills.

Practical Details: What You Should Know

Meeting Point & Accessibility

The workshop begins and ends at the Phi Hoang Gas Store in Hoi An. It’s conveniently located near public transportation options, but note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included. Travelers should plan their own transportation to the location.

Duration & Price

At roughly 3 hours, it’s a manageable half-day activity—long enough to learn, create, and enjoy without feeling rushed. The $30.83 per person fee covers all tools, materials, guidance, and your finished lantern, making it an excellent value considering the personalized nature of the workshop.

What’s Included

• All painting and craft materials
• Instructor and English-speaking guide
• Your personalized bamboo script
• A finished foldable lantern
• A small gift from the instructor

What’s Not Included

• Transportation to and from the workshop

Authenticity and Reviewer Insights

One guest summed it up as “a wonderful experience,” praising the kindness and friendliness of the staff. They appreciated the relaxing setting and the opportunity to learn new skills in a hands-on way. Another reviewer highlighted how helpful and patient the instructor was, making the activity accessible even for those with no prior art experience.

A different guest mentioned that, especially on rainy days, this activity becomes a perfect indoor option, combining fun and learning with a cultural twist. The ability to paint on silk and craft a custom lantern truly captures a piece of Hoi An’s soul, one that many visitors cherish as a keepsake.

Who This Experience Is Best For

This workshop appeals most to creative travelers eager to learn Vietnamese craft techniques. It’s ideal for those who want a personalized, hands-on activity that produces a tangible souvenir. Couples, families, or solo travelers will find the intimate setting welcoming and fun.

If you’re after a relaxing cultural experience that offers more than just sightseeing, and you enjoy working with your hands, this class ticks all the boxes. It’s also a great option for rainy days or those seeking an authentic activity away from the crowded tourist spots.

The Sum Up

This lantern and painting workshop in Hoi An offers a wonderful blend of creativity, culture, and craftsmanship at a very reasonable price. You’ll leave with a beautiful, foldable lantern that’s easy to pack, as well as new skills and a deeper appreciation for Vietnamese art.

The experience is perfect for anyone wanting a meaningful souvenir or a memorable story to tell friends and family. The small group size, friendly guides, and well-structured activities make it a worthwhile addition to your itinerary. Whether you’re a craft lover or simply want to connect more deeply with Hoi An’s artistic traditions, this tour delivers authentic fun and lasting memories.

FAQ

How long does the workshop last?
The entire experience takes approximately 3 hours, providing enough time to craft your lantern and learn painting techniques without feeling rushed.

Do I need to bring anything?
No need to bring any materials. All tools, paints, and materials are included, along with tea and traditional music for a relaxing atmosphere.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, hotel transfers are not part of this experience. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point at Phi Hoang Gas Store.

Can I take my lantern home?
Yes. Your finished lantern is foldable and lightweight, making it easy to pack and carry back home as a souvenir or gift.

Is it suitable for children or beginners?
Absolutely. The guides are patient and friendly, making it suitable for all skill levels, including children. The reviews mention how approachable the instructors are for beginners.

What shapes of lanterns can I make?
There are various options, including diamond, garlic, lotus, or UFO shapes, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your style.

Are the guides fluent in English?
Yes, the guides speak English and are well-versed in explaining each step clearly, ensuring everyone understands and enjoys the process.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing that you don’t mind getting a little paint on is recommended, although the process is quite tidy.

This workshop offers a creative and cultural look into Hoi An’s famous lantern tradition, perfect for adding a personal touch to your Vietnam adventure.