Hoi An: Ancient Town and Basket Boat & Lantern Release Tour

Hoi An’s ancient charm and local traditions come alive in this immersive tour. Explore the historic streets, indulge in a Vietnamese feast, and embark on a serene boat ride. As the sun sets, witness the mesmerizing display of floating lanterns on the Hoai River – a truly unforgettable experience that immerses you in the vibrant culture of this UNESCO-listed gem. What awaits beyond this enchanting journey through Hoi An?

Key Points

• This 6.5-hour tour offers a comprehensive experience exploring Hoi An’s cultural heritage, including the Ancient Town, an eco-coconut village, and a traditional Vietnamese dinner.
• The tour includes convenient hotel pickup and drop-off services from several locations in Da Nang and Hoi An, ensuring a seamless experience.
• Visitors can participate in hands-on activities at the Cam Thanh Eco-Coconut Village, such as learning traditional fishing techniques and bamboo basket boat rowing.
• The Hoi An Ancient Town tour features visits to historic landmarks, including the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall and the iconic Japanese Bridge.
• The tour culminates with a traditional Vietnamese dinner on the Hoai River, followed by the symbolic act of releasing flower lanterns into the water.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The Hoi An: Ancient Town and Basket Boat & Lantern Release Tour offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience in the charming historic city of Hoi An.

Priced from $44.24 per person, the 6.5-hour tour caters to a small group of up to 12 participants. It includes hotel pickup and drop-off from various locations in Da Nang and Hoi An.

The itinerary covers an eco-coconut village, the Hoi An Ancient Town, and a traditional Vietnamese dinner with a lantern release on the Hoai River.

This tour provides an immersive glimpse into the local culture and history of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins with convenient pickup from a selection of locations in Da Nang and Hoi An.

Pickup is offered from 5 spots – Điện Dương, Hải Châu District, Thanh Khê District, Hội An, and Ngũ Hành Sơn.

Pickup time is around 12:00 PM.

After the tour, drop-off is provided at the same 5 locations.

This comprehensive transportation service ensures a seamless start and end to the day’s activities.

Whether you’re staying in Da Nang or Hoi An, you’ll be conveniently picked up and returned to your accommodation, allowing you to fully learn about the cultural experiences ahead.

Cam Thanh Eco-Coconut Village

After the convenient pickup, the tour takes visitors to the Cam Thanh Eco-Coconut Village, where they’ll experience traditional fishing techniques and learn to row bamboo basket boats in the tranquil waterways.

Participants will have hands-on opportunities to try these activities, which are suitable for all ages.

The eco-village provides an immersive glimpse into the local culture and lifestyle, offering a relaxing respite from the bustling streets of Hoi An.

This segment of the tour is both educational and enjoyable, allowing travelers to connect with the region’s rich heritage.

Hoi An Ancient Town Tour

Following the tranquil respite at the Cam Thanh Eco-Coconut Village, the tour now brings visitors to explore the historic Hoi An Ancient Town.

Travelers will wander through the charming streets, visiting the renowned Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall and the iconic Japanese Bridge.

They’ll enjoy the region’s rich history by exploring the Phung Hung and Tan Ky Ancient Houses, which reflect over 200 years of architectural heritage.

The tour also includes stops at the Museum of Folk Culture and Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House, offering insights into the area’s vibrant cultural traditions.

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Dinner and Lantern Release

As the sun sets, the tour continues with a traditional dinner featuring Hoi An’s renowned specialties. Guests will savor the flavors of local cuisine while enjoying a boat ride on the Hoai River.

The tour culminates with the serene and symbolic act of releasing flower lanterns into the water, a gesture believed to bring good luck. This tranquil experience allows participants to enjoy Hoi An’s vibrant nightlife.

Afterward, guests are free to explore the bustling night market, soaking in the atmosphere of this historic town before returning to their accommodations.

Inclusions and Exclusions

The tour includes a range of services and amenities to enhance the overall experience.

These include:

• Pickup and drop-off from various locations in Da Nang and Hoi An

• An English-speaking tour guide

• Entrance fees to all the sites visited

• A boat ride and the opportunity to release flower lanterns on the Hoai River

• A set menu dinner featuring Hoi An specialties

• 500ml of mineral water per person

Exclusions include personal expenses, tips for guides and drivers, and an additional boat ride fee for children under 4 years old.

Important Information

This tour is suitable for the general public, excluding individuals with back problems, wheelchair users, those with pre-existing medical conditions, and people over 95 years.

Participants are advised to wear comfortable shoes, bring a sun hat, camera, and insect repellent, as the tour operates rain or shine.

The tour offers a range of activities, from traditional fishing techniques to a relaxing boat ride and lantern release on the Hoai River.

With a limited group size of 12, this tour provides a personalized experience and an opportunity to take in the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An.

Suitability and Recommendations

Though the tour is suitable for the general public, certain individuals may need to exercise caution.

The tour involves:

• Navigating through tranquil waterways in bamboo basket boats

• Exploring ancient houses and historical sites, which may require walking on uneven terrain

• Participating in hands-on activities that may not be suitable for those with back problems or limited mobility

• Attending a dinner featuring local specialties, which may not accommodate all dietary restrictions.

It’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection, and insect repellent.

The tour operates rain or shine, ensuring a memorable experience for all participants.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Items Are Included in the Set Menu Dinner?

The set menu dinner includes Hoi An specialties. Specific items are not listed, but the tour overview indicates a traditional dinner is provided as part of the experience.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Individual Preferences?

The tour can’t be customized for individual preferences. It follows a set itinerary that’s suitable for the general public, though certain restrictions apply. Travelers should consider their physical abilities before booking the tour.

Is There an Option to Extend the Tour Duration?

There’s no option to extend the tour duration. The tour has a fixed 6.5-hour itinerary that can’t be customized. However, travelers can explore Hoi An further on their own after the tour ends.

How Long Is the Boat Ride on the Hoai River?

The boat ride on the Hoai River lasts approximately 30 minutes, during which time participants can release flower lanterns for good luck as part of the overall tour experience.

Can the Tour Be Booked for a Private Group?

Yes, the tour can be booked for a private group. The group size is limited to 12 participants, so you can reserve the entire tour for your private group. Booking a private tour provides more flexibility and personalized experiences.

The Sum Up

This immersive tour provides a unique opportunity to explore Hoi An’s captivating history, culture, and traditions. From wandering the charming streets of the ancient town to experiencing traditional activities in Cam Thanh Village, it’s an enriching experience that culminates in a magical lantern release on the Hoai River. Offering a seamless blend of sightseeing, hands-on activities, and local cuisine, this tour is a must-do for anyone seeking an authentic and unforgettable day in Hoi An.

You can check availability for your dates here: