Hoi An’s lantern release and night river boat experience offers visitors a chance to enjoy the city’s vibrant cultural traditions. For just $8.34, travelers can embark on a 20-minute boat ride, releasing flower-shaped lanterns as they make wishes for health and fortune. This enchanting activity, set against the backdrop of the illuminated ancient town, provides a mesmerizing atmosphere. Though the experience lasts only briefly, its impact on one’s connection to local heritage can linger long after.
Key Points

- The 20-minute lantern release and night river boat ride in Hoi An is priced from $8.34 per person and includes a 15-minute boat trip, one floating lantern, transportation, and a guide.
- Participants can light lanterns, make wishes, and enjoy scenic views of the illuminated city, experiencing Hoi An’s spiritual side and local traditions at night.
- The activity involves releasing a flower-shaped lantern on the Thu Bon River, making wishes for luck, peace, health, and fortune, and immersing in the cultural heritage and natural beauty.
- Booking options include "reserve now & pay later" and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, making it easy for travelers to plan the unique cultural experience.
- The meeting location is at Kwiatkowsky Square next to 140 Tran Phu Street in Hoi An Old Town, but the activity is not suitable for individuals with mobility impairments or wheelchair users.
Activity Overview

The experience offers a 20-minute lantern release and night river boat ride in Hoi An.
Priced from $8.34 per person, it includes a 15-minute boat trip, one floating lantern per participant, transportation to the meeting point, and a guide.
For just $8.34 per person, experience a 15-minute boat trip, a floating lantern, transportation, and a guide.
Each booking is assigned to a private boat accommodating 1-5 people.
The activity allows participants to light lanterns, make wishes, and experience Hoi An’s spiritual side and local traditions at night, while enjoying scenic views of the illuminated city as the lanterns drift on the water.
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Cultural Experience

Typically, the activity involves releasing a flower-shaped lantern on the Thu Bon River. Participants light their lanterns, making wishes for luck, peace, health, and fortune.
This experience allows visitors to enjoy Hoi An’s spiritual side and local traditions, especially at night. As the lanterns drift on the water, the scenic views of the illuminated city create a mesmerizing atmosphere.
The activity provides an opportunity to connect with the cultural heritage of the region and appreciate the beauty of the natural surroundings during the evening hours.
Booking and Cancellation

Customers can reserve their spot for the Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience without any upfront payment. This "reserve now & pay later" option allows travelers to secure their participation without an immediate financial commitment.
The activity also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, providing flexibility for those who need to change their plans. Customers can check availability for the desired starting times, ensuring they can find a slot that fits their schedule.
With these convenient booking and cancellation policies, travelers can easily plan and enjoy this unique cultural experience in Hoi An.
Meeting Point and Accessibility

Although the Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience is directly accessible only on foot, the meeting location is conveniently situated in Hoi An Old Town.
Participants meet at Kwiatkowsky Square next to 140 Tran Phu Street. This central location within the historic district allows easy access for visitors.
However, the activity isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments or wheelchair users, as it involves navigating the city’s narrow streets and pathways.
This activity is not recommended for those with mobility issues or wheelchair users due to the narrow streets and pathways.
Guests should plan their transportation and accessibility needs accordingly to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information

While the Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience offers a unique cultural celebration, there are a few important considerations for participants.
First, alcohol and drugs are strictly prohibited during the activity.
Second, the peak time for the experience is from 7:00 PM to 8:00 PM, so visitors may need to wait in line to participate.
Finally, based on customer feedback, there have been some booking issues with the greeter, so it’s essential to review all details and communicate any concerns promptly.
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Customer Feedback

The Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience has received an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 4 reviews. Feedback highlights the experience’s beauty, but mentions potential booking issues with the greeter. An overview of the reviews is shown in the table below:
| Rating | Number of Reviews | Percentage |
| —— | —————- | ———- |
| 5 | 3 | 75% |
| 4 | 1 | 25% |
| 3 | 0 | 0% |
| 2 | 0 | 0% |
| 1 | 0 | 0% |
The high overall rating suggests the experience successfully offers a unique, scenic, and culturally immersive activity for visitors to Hoi An.
The Sum Up

The Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience in Hoi An offers visitors a unique opportunity to enjoy the city’s spiritual and cultural traditions.
This activity provides:
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A serene boat ride along the Thu Bon River, offering breathtaking views of the illuminated city.
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The chance to release a flower-shaped lantern, symbolizing wishes for luck, peace, health, and fortune.
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An intimate glimpse into Hoi An’s local rituals and traditions, creating a memorable and meaningful experience.
While the experience may require waiting in line during peak hours, the overall reviews highlight the beauty and authenticity of this cultural activity.
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos or Videos During the Experience?
Yes, participants can take photos and videos during the experience. The activity overview indicates that taking pictures and recording the lantern release and boat ride is allowed and encouraged to capture the scenic views and spiritual atmosphere.
What Is the Minimum Age Requirement for Participants?
The minimum age requirement for participants is not specified. The activity appears suitable for all ages, though young children may require adult supervision. Participants must be able to board the private boat and release the lantern safely.
Can I Bring My Own Lantern to Release?
The activity does not allow participants to bring their own lanterns. The package includes the rental of one floating lantern per person, which is part of the cultural experience and key to the activity.
Is the Boat Ride Included in the Experience?
Yes, the boat ride is included in the experience. The activity package includes a 15-minute boat trip along with the lantern release, transportation to the meeting point, and a guide.
Is the Activity Suitable for Large Groups or Families?
The activity is suitable for small groups or families, as each booking is assigned a private boat accommodating 1-5 people. Larger groups may need to book multiple boats.
The Sum Up

The Lantern Release and Night River Boat Experience in Hoi An offers a unique cultural activity that immerses visitors in the city’s spiritual traditions. For just $8.34 per person, travelers can enjoy a 20-minute river journey, releasing flower-shaped lanterns and making wishes. Located in the heart of Hoi An Old Town, this mesmerizing activity allows guests to connect with the local heritage and create lasting memories.
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