GenZ Travelers Embrace Workshop Experiences in Hoi An
- 5 hours ago
- 3 min read
Hoi An, renowned for its 400-year-old heritage and its poetic charm along the Thu Bon River, continues to captivate international visitors—not only for its timeless beauty but also for its unique experiential offerings such as traditional craft village tours and eco-rural experiences.
Recently, a group of Gen Z students from the University of the East (Manila, Philippines) embarked on a Central Vietnam journey guided by Visit Indochina, with immersive hands-on activities as a key highlight.
What left the strongest impression on these young travelers were the stops at traditional craft villages, where they could create their own handmade souvenirs at some of Da Nang’s most well-known artisan communities.
A Day as a Lantern Artisan in a 400-Year-Old Town
Choosing Central Vietnam as their destination, the students sought to capture memorable moments at iconic attractions such as Ba Na Hills, the Golden Bridge, Dragon Bridge, and Hoi An Ancient Town.
Upon arriving in Da Nang, the group was immediately struck by the vibrant yet modern atmosphere of this coastal city along the Han River. As one of Central Vietnam’s leading tourism hubs, Da Nang impressed visitors with its rapid development and well-established tourism infrastructure.
During their stay, the group explored world-famous landmarks including the Golden Bridge, French Village, Dragon Bridge, Linh Ung Pagoda, My Khe Beach, and the Han River Bridge. Notably, the group was given the opportunity to participate in an immersive workshop at Ba Na Hills, offering a more in-depth and practical perspective on the Sun World ecosystem. The experience was further enhanced by exceptionally favorable weather conditions.
The city’s fresh air, clean environment, and peaceful ambiance further enhanced the overall experience. However, the most memorable highlight came when they visited Hoi An Ancient Town—where they had the opportunity to personally craft traditional Vietnamese lanterns.
In Hoi An, visitors were immersed in tranquil spaces within the old town, where artisans continue to preserve traditional crafts passed down through generations. Lantern-making, in particular, stands out as a cultural product highly appreciated by international tourists.
Lantern workshops in Hoi An have been operating for decades, often passed down through family generations. Local artisans carefully prepare materials and guide visitors step by step in creating their own products—many of which are later taken home as meaningful souvenirs.
Lanterns are not only decorative items but also cultural symbols deeply embedded in the life of Hoi An. Every household hangs lanterns to bring warmth and ward off misfortune. On full-moon nights, the entire town glows with colorful lanterns, creating a magical atmosphere reminiscent of scenes from classical Asian films.
Lanterns – A Cultural Icon and a Distinctive Souvenir for Travelers
From a traditional craft tied closely to daily life in Hoi An, lantern-making has become a popular hands-on activity for tourists. Visitors are often taken to workshops where they can work directly with local artisans.
Under the artisans’ guidance, participants can shape metal frames, bend bamboo, stretch fabric, and complete a beautifully crafted lantern that carries the cultural essence of Hoi An.
Dating back to the 17th century, silk-covered lanterns have evolved into a defining symbol of the ancient town, closely associated with local life and traditional festivals.
Today, visitors to Hoi An can join the full lantern-making process at numerous workshops throughout the town.
From assembling frames to attaching fabric and completing the final product, each step requires precision and patience. This hands-on experience not only sparks excitement but also helps visitors gain a deeper appreciation for traditional craftsmanship.
For many, creating their own lantern becomes a highlight of the trip—especially for students and younger travelers who enjoy engaging, creative activities. The joyful moments shared while working alongside artisans make the experience even more memorable.
Interestingly, thanks to the professionalism and hospitality of Hoi An’s locals, each group receives tailored guidance to ensure an enjoyable and meaningful experience. Lantern-making has proven to be particularly appealing to Gen Z travelers.
Bringing home a self-made lantern has become a cherished souvenir, allowing visitors to carry a piece of Hoi An’s charm with them.
Over the years, Visit Indochina has continuously explored local culture and built strong partnerships with workshops and artisan communities, creating a well-established network ready to welcome international visitors.
Beyond lantern-making, Hoi An offers a variety of other craft village experiences such as pottery-making at Thanh Ha Village, farming activities at Tra Que Vegetable Village, basket boat rides through the coconut forest, and more. These long-standing traditions, shaped over centuries, contribute to the rich cultural identity of Hoi An.
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