In the historic city of Hoi An, visitors can enjoy a captivating cultural experience – the Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience. As the sun sets, participants release flower-shaped lanterns onto the serene Thu Bon River, symbolizing the letting go of worries and the making of wishes. This tranquil ritual is followed by a scenic boat cruise, offering a chance to admire Hoi An’s illuminated landscape. For those seeking a peaceful escape, this activity promises a truly enchanting evening.
Key Points
- Participants can release a flower-shaped lantern onto the Thu Bon River, symbolizing the release of worries and making wishes for luck and peace.
- A 15-minute wooden boat cruise along the Thu Bon River follows the lantern release, providing photo opportunities of Hoi An’s tranquil nightscape.
- The experience immerses individuals in Hoi An’s spiritual culture, creating a serene atmosphere with the gentle lapping of water and soft glow of lanterns.
- Booking is available through an online platform with a pay later option, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
- The activity is on foot only, so participants should consider their mobility needs when reserving.
Activity Overview
The activity, titled "Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience in Hoi An," is priced from $8.32 per person and lasts approximately 20 minutes.
Immerse in Hoi An’s spiritual culture with a private boat ride and lantern release for just $8.32 per person in 20 minutes.
It takes place at the Kwiatkowsky Square, next to 140 Tran Phu street in Hoi An Old Town.
This group activity offers a private boat for each booking, allowing participants to enjoy Hoi An’s spiritual culture.
The experience is available at various starting times, and guests can reserve now and pay later.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Hoi An.
Releasing the Lantern
First, participants release a flower-shaped lantern onto the Thu Bon River, seeing Hoi An’s spiritual culture.
As the lantern drifts away, a serene glow illuminates the river. Participants make a silent wish for luck and peace, symbolically releasing their worries.
The experience is tranquil and reflective, allowing visitors to connect with Hoi An’s cultural heritage. The river comes alive with the collective light of countless lanterns, creating a mesmerizing display.
This ritual offers a chance to pause, reflect, and appreciate the beauty of the historic town at night.
Scenic River Boat Cruise
After releasing the lanterns, participants board a wooden boat for a scenic cruise along the Thu Bon River.
The 15-minute boat trip provides photo opportunities to capture Hoi An’s tranquil nightscape. Glowing lanterns line the riverbanks, creating a serene atmosphere. Guests enjoy the peaceful ambiance as the boat drifts through the calm waters.
The experience allows visitors to enjoy Hoi An’s unique culture and scenery. The boat accommodates 1-5 people per booking, ensuring an intimate and personalized journey.
This segment of the activity rounds out the spiritual lantern release with a relaxing river cruise.
Peaceful Atmosphere
As the wooden boat drifts along the Thu Bon River, the peaceful atmosphere envelops the participants.
The gentle lapping of the water and the soft glow of the lanterns create a serene ambiance. Participants can marvel at the breathtaking views of the historic Hoi An Old Town, its buildings illuminated by the lanterns’ light.
The tranquil river journey allows them to momentarily escape the bustling city and enjoy the calm serenity of the night.
This experience offers a chance to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and connect with the spiritual and cultural traditions of Hoi An.
More Great Tours NearbySymbolism and Wishes
The symbolic release of the flower-shaped lanterns on the Thu Bon River allows participants to make wishes for luck and peace.
As the lanterns gently float downstream, the glowing lights create a serene and tranquil atmosphere. This ritual represents the release of worries and burdens, inviting visitors to find inner calm.
The lanterns’ delicate design, with their colorful petals, adds to the spiritual significance of the experience.
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Meeting Point and Accessibility
The meeting point for the Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience is located at Kwiatkowsky Square, next to 140 Tran Phu street in Hoi An Old Town.
This group activity takes place on the Thu Bon River and provides a private boat for each booking.
While the experience isn’t suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, it’s accessible on foot.
Participants should avoid bringing alcohol and drugs.
The activity lasts around 20 minutes, and it’s recommended to arrive during non-peak hours to avoid waiting in line.
Booking in advance is advised to secure a spot.
Booking and Cancellation
Customers can book the Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience in Hoi An through the available online platform. The activity can be reserved ahead of time, allowing for a "pay later" option.
Free cancellation is offered up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Booking early is recommended, as peak times between 7:00 PM and 8:00 PM may require waiting in line.
Each private boat accommodates 1-5 people, making it suitable for both individuals and small groups. The activity is directly accessible only on foot, so customers should consider their mobility needs when making a reservation.
Customer Reviews and Feedback
Based on the 4 reviews, customers have given the Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience in Hoi An an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars. The experience seems to be a highlight for visitors, with many praising the tranquil atmosphere and beauty of Hoi An at night.
| Feedback | Rating |
| — | — |
| "Magical experience!" | 5/5 |
| "Peaceful and serene" | 4/5 |
| "Unforgettable moment" | 5/5 |
Though some note the peak time between 7-8 PM may require waiting in line, the overall consensus is that the Lantern Release is a must-do activity for those visiting Hoi An.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Time of Year for This Activity?
The best time of year for this activity is during the peak tourist season, typically between November and March. This is when the weather is mild and dry, making it an ideal time to enjoy the lantern release and boat experience.
Can Children Participate in the Lantern Release?
Yes, children can participate in the lantern release. The experience is suitable for all ages, and the floating lanterns are provided for each participant, including children. Parents should supervise their children during the activity.
Are Life Jackets Provided for the Boat Ride?
Life jackets are not mentioned in the details provided. However, as a standard safety precaution, the tour operator likely provides life jackets for the boat ride. Guests should check with the host for more information about life jacket availability.
Are There Any Restrictions on the Size of the Lanterns?
The activity doesn’t mention any restrictions on the size of the lanterns. The lanterns provided are described as "flower-shaped," suggesting they’re of a standardized size suitable for the experience.
How Long Does the Boat Ride Typically Last?
The boat ride typically lasts 15 minutes, according to the itinerary highlights. It includes a photo stop, allowing participants to enjoy the tranquil atmosphere and beauty of Hoi An at night.
The Sum Up
The Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience in Hoi An offers a unique opportunity to take in local culture. From releasing a flower-shaped lantern to embarking on a scenic boat cruise, participants can escape the bustling city and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while making wishes and admiring Hoi An’s historic landscape. The activity is easily accessible and can be booked with flexible cancellation policies, making it a must-do for visitors to Hoi An.
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