Overview
Hoi An's most romantic experience is hopping on a small wooden rowboat (sampan) on the Thu Bon River just after sunset. Over a 20-30 minute ride, you'll glide between the yellow colonial buildings reflected in the water with thousands of lanterns aglow. Following Hoi An tradition, you'll set tiny paper lanterns (hoa dang, VND 10,000-20,000 each) carrying wishes adrift on the river. On the full moon (14th day of each lunar month), the entire city shuts off its electric lights — only lanterns illuminate the streets, creating an unforgettable scene. Boat ride about VND 100,000-150,000; floating lanterns VND 10,000 each. Boats depart from anywhere along Bach Dang Street on the river.
Travel Tips
Visiting on the full moon (14th lunar day) is the most magical but extremely crowded. Lanterns are lit every evening 18:00-22:00, so it's gorgeous even without the full moon.
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🇰🇷 Tips for Korean Travelers
Practical info for Korean travelers heading to Hoi An, Vietnam from Seoul (ICN).
Korean Passport · Visa
Check visa rules for Vietnam on the Korean MOFA travel advisory site before flying — visa-free, visa-on-arrival or e-visa rules change often. Keep at least 6 months of passport validity.
Flight from Incheon (ICN)
Compare direct and connecting flights from Incheon (ICN) to Hoi An on Skyscanner or Google Flights. Early-morning departures from Korea are usually the cheapest option.
KRW ↔ Local Currency
Check the live FX widget above for the latest KRW rate. Korean travel cards like Travel Wallet, Hana EZ and Toss FX offer free local ATM withdrawals and competitive rates.
Korean Community · Korean Food
Many cities have an active Korean community in Hoi An with Korean restaurants, mini-marts, and Korean-speaking guides. Search Naver Cafe or KakaoTalk open chats for "Hoi An 한인" before you go.
Attractions near Thu Bon River Boat & Lantern Release
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Things to Do in Hoi An
Hoi An Lantern Making
Learn the art of traditional lantern-making from Hoi An artisans. Cover a bamboo frame with silk to create your own lantern and take it home as a souvenir.
Basket Boat Experience
Ride traditional bamboo basket boats (thung chai) in Cam Thanh village. Paddle through palm-lined waterways and watch local fishermen demonstrate net casting.
Hoi An Cooking Class
Shop at a local market for fresh ingredients, then learn to cook Vietnamese dishes like banh mi, cao lau, and spring rolls under a chef guidance. Includes market tour, cooking, and lunch.