Boat Ride at Hoai River + Free Lantern + Foot Massage at Villa De Spa (Discount 50%)

Must Do Experiences

• Glide along the Hoai River on a traditional wooden boat as the sky turns golden at dusk

• Release a hand-decorated silk lantern onto the water, a deeply symbolic Vietnamese tradition

• Explore the beautifully lit Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, before and after your boat ride

Hidden Gems

• Arrive 20 minutes before sunset for the most breathtaking photos as lanterns begin to glow along the riverbanks

• Ask your boat rower to share local stories — many have sailed these waters for decades and know hidden legends

• The lantern you release carries a personal wish; locals believe it guides your dreams and intentions into the universe

What Makes it Special

• Combines a serene boat ride, a meaningful lantern-releasing ritual, and a relaxing foot massage at a discounted rate — all in one experience

• Set against the backdrop of Hoi An’s iconic yellow-walled ancient town, illuminated by thousands of silk lanterns

• The lantern release is not just a tourist activity but a cherished cultural tradition with deep spiritual significance for locals

Perfect Timing

When to visit for the best experience

The best time to experience this is during the dry season from February to August, when evenings are pleasant and the sky is clear. The full moon nights are especially magical, as Hoi An turns off its electric lights and the river glows with hundreds of floating lanterns.

Photography Guide

Capture the perfect shots

• Capture the golden hour as the sun sets behind the ancient town — the warm light reflects beautifully on the river

• Position yourself on the boat to frame the Japanese Covered Bridge with lanterns in the foreground

• Use a higher ISO setting for low-light shots of floating lanterns, and try long exposure for silky water effects

Cultural Etiquette

Respect local customs and traditions

When releasing your lantern, take a moment to make a silent wish — this is a meaningful tradition, not just a photo opportunity Dress modestly and respectfully when walking through the Ancient Town’s temples and shrines along the river It is customary to accept the lantern with both hands as a sign of respect for the tradition

Special Events & Experiences

Enhanced experiences and seasonal highlights

• Full Moon Lantern Festival — held monthly on the 14th day of the lunar calendar, when the entire town is bathed in lantern light

• Tet (Lunar New Year) — a spectacular time when the Hoai River is adorned with thousands of special lanterns and cultural performances

• Hoi An Folk Art Festival — featuring traditional music, puppetry, and lantern-making workshops along the riverbanks

Important Guidelines & Safety

Essential safety information and guidelines

• Hold onto your lantern securely while on the boat to prevent it from falling into the river before you are ready to release it

• Keep valuables in a secure, zippered bag as the night market areas can be crowded

• Follow the boat operator’s instructions at all times, especially when boarding and disembarking