Hoi An: Sweet Candy & Scented Candle Making Experience

This review explores a popular hands-on craft workshop in Hoi An, offering a fun, creative way to connect with Vietnamese traditions. While we haven’t personally tried it, detailed feedback from participants paints a vivid picture of what to expect.

What we love about this experience is its engaging nature, the opportunity to create personalized souvenirs, and the cozy, authentic studio setting—all packed into just 1.5 hours. The only thing to consider is that it’s not suitable for children under 8, so families with younger kids might want to look elsewhere. Perfect for couples, solo travelers, or groups of friends who enjoy crafts and cultural insights, this workshop promises a memorable, tactile adventure in the heart of Vietnam.

Key Points

• Creative hands-on activity blending sweet and sensory crafts
• Authentic local artisanship in a cozy studio
• Take home personalized souvenirs of candies and candles
• Short, engaging duration of 1.5 hours fits well into a day
• Accessible for private groups and wheelchair users
• Ideal for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences

You can check availability for your dates here:

What is the Hoi An Candy & Scented Candle Making Experience?

This experience invites you into a charming workshop in Hoi An, where you’ll craft colorful, handmade candies and pour your own scented candle. It’s designed to be a fun, creative escape that combines Vietnamese craftsmanship with relaxation. Guided by friendly local artisans, you’ll enjoy a warm, welcoming environment that encourages you to get hands-on with tradition.

Participants can expect an engaging process where they shape, decorate, and package candies using traditional techniques, making each piece as delightful to look at as it is to taste. Afterward, the focus shifts to candle-making, where you select from natural essential oils—like soy or beeswax—to blend your favorite fragrances and pour your personal creation in a cozy studio.

What makes this experience special is the opportunity to not only make something beautiful and functional but also to capture the moments with photos while crafting. The final products are entirely safe to eat and serve as meaningful souvenirs or gifts, something you’ll cherish long after your trip ends.

The Itinerary in Detail

The workshop’s flow is simple yet thoughtfully designed to maximize enjoyment and creativity within 1.5 hours. It starts at the yellow building labeled “Simple Candy”, conveniently located in central Hoi An (coordinates: 15.8776, 108.3247). Upon arrival, you’ll likely spend about 10-15 minutes registering and settling in, which leaves plenty of time for the actual crafting.

First, the candy-making segment is guided by experienced artisans who walk you through traditional Vietnamese techniques. Expect to shape, decorate, and flavor your candies, which are vibrant, sweet, and highly photogenic. Many reviews highlight how fun and satisfying it is to create your own colorful treats, with some mentioning how the process is surprisingly straightforward thanks to the clear guidance.

Next, the atmosphere shifts to candle-making. Here, you will select from a variety of natural essential oils, experimenting with mixtures to produce your preferred scent. Pouring your candle into the chosen mold, you’ll watch your creation take shape, often accompanied by playful conversations and laughter.

The entire session is set in a cozy, well-lit studio, designed to stimulate your creativity. Participants often comment on how the friendly staff and relaxing environment make it easy to enjoy the craft, even if you’re a beginner.

The Authentic Touch: Why It Matters

One of the highlights noted in reviews is the genuine local craftsmanship. Artisans guide you through techniques that are rooted in Vietnamese traditions, making it a culturally enriching experience. It’s not just about the finished product but about understanding the care and skill involved in each step.

Participants also appreciate the opportunity to capture beautiful photos amid colorful candies and elegant candles—perfect for sharing your adventure later. On top of that, being in a studio setting means you’re comfortable trying out different ideas without feeling rushed, which is a bonus for those who love to experiment.

Practical Details and Value

This activity lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to a busy sightseeing day. The cost includes all materials and tools, so there are no hidden expenses, and you leave with your handmade candies and candles—great souvenirs or gifts. The workshop caters to private groups, which means your experience can be tailored or kept intimate.

Accessibility is considered, as it is wheelchair accessible, enabling more travelers to participate. The location is easy to reach by taxi or bicycle, common transportation options around Hoi An. Participants are advised to arrive 10-15 minutes early, wear comfortable clothes, and bring a camera and cash for any extras.

While the workshop is designed to be suitable for most, children under 8 are not recommended, possibly because of the heat from candy-making or the delicate nature of candle pouring.

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What Participants Say

Many reviews praise the friendly guidance, describing the studio as a cozy, welcoming space where beginners can feel confident. One attendee mentioned, “The staff explained everything clearly, and I loved how relaxed and fun the process was.” Others highlight how the finished candies look vibrant and playful, making them perfect treats or gifts.

Some reviewers noted the heat in the studio during candy-making, but they found it part of the authentic experience. Participants also appreciated the flexibility of booking: with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, planning remains stress-free.

Comparing with Similar Experiences

While there are various craft-related activities in and around Hoi An and Da Nang, this workshop stands out for its combination of sweet and sensory crafts in a single session. Other experiences, like river boat trips or cultural shows, focus on sightseeing, but this offers hands-on participation, making it ideal for those wanting a memorable, tangible souvenir.

Who Will Love This?

This experience is perfect for couples, families (with children over 8), or craft enthusiasts eager to get a taste of Vietnamese artisanship. It’s also suitable for anyone who enjoys relaxed, creative activities that produce tangible keepsakes. Travelers who prefer authentic local experiences over standard sightseeing will find this workshop particularly appealing.

Final Thoughts on Value

Considering the price covers all materials, expert guidance, and the chance to take home two handmade souvenirs, this activity offers a great return on investment. It delivers a mix of fun, learning, and cultural appreciation often missing from typical tours. Plus, the short duration makes it easy to slot into broader travel plans.

If you’re seeking a memorable, craft-filled activity that offers insight into Vietnamese traditions while providing personal keepsakes, this workshop in Hoi An is a strong contender.

The Hoi An Sweet Candy & Scented Candle Making Experience combines creativity, tradition, and fun into a compact, enjoyable session. It’s particularly suited for those who love hands-on activities and want to create meaningful souvenirs. The cozy studio environment, friendly guidance, and authentic techniques make it a worthwhile addition to any Hoi An itinerary.

While it may not appeal to very young children, most travelers—especially couples, families with older kids, or craft lovers—will find this experience a rewarding and delightful way to spend part of their day. The opportunity to learn traditional Vietnamese techniques, capture beautiful photos, and leave with personal creations makes this workshop a genuine highlight for those seeking authentic, memorable moments in Vietnam.

What is included in the price of the workshop?
All materials and tools for candy and candle making are included, so you only need to bring a camera and cash for any extras.

Is the workshop suitable for children?
Children under 8 years old are not recommended, likely due to heat or delicate tasks involved in the process.

How long does the experience last?
The entire session takes approximately 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into your day.

Where exactly is the workshop located?
It’s in a yellow building called “Simple Candy” in central Hoi An, at coordinates 15.8776, 108.3247.

Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, the workshop is wheelchair accessible, accommodating a variety of mobility needs.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking allows you to reserve now and pay later.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes are recommended; aprons and gloves are provided, and the studio can get warm during candy-making.

How do I book this experience?
You can reserve your spot online with flexible options, ensuring your plans stay open until confirmation.

Are the souvenirs safe to eat?
Yes, the candies are edible and make lovely, personal treats or gifts.

What makes this experience unique compared to other workshops?
The combination of colorful Vietnamese candies and personalized scented candles, guided by local artisans in a cozy setting, offers a delightful, well-rounded cultural activity.

In essence, this hands-on workshop is a charming way to spend time in Hoi An, blending creativity with authentic craftsmanship. It’s a fantastic choice for those wanting a memorable, interactive experience that results in beautiful, tangible souvenirs.

You can check availability for your dates here: