The Hoi An City Tour offers a captivating experience that combines the serenity of a boat ride along the Hoai River with the magical tradition of releasing flower lanterns. Participants will explore the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town and visit the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, seeing Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage. As the day winds down, they’ll have the opportunity to witness the enchanting sight of lanterns illuminating the water, a symbolic gesture of letting go of the past and welcoming good fortune. This tour promises a truly memorable encounter, leaving participants with a deeper appreciation for the city’s timeless charm.
Key Points

- Comprehensive Hoi An city tour exploring UNESCO World Heritage site, including a boat ride and flower lantern release.
- Visit ancient architecture, Chinese Assembly Hall, and local cultural attractions like the Museum of Folk Culture.
- Enjoy included transportation, English-speaking guide, local dinner, and activities like cultural art shows.
- Tour not suitable for wheelchair users, with additional fees for specific resort pickups.
- Operates daily, with shared or private tour options, and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Tour Overview and Pricing
- Itinerary and Highlights
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Transportation Details
- Important Information
- Explore Hoi An Ancient Town
- Visit Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall
- Enjoy Boat Ride and Lantern Release
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Lantern to Release?
- Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
- Can I Rent a Bicycle During the Tour?
- Is Wifi Available During the Boat Ride?
- Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in Hoi An
- More Boat Tours & Cruises in Hoi An
- More Tours in Hoi An
- More Tour Reviews in Hoi An
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in Hoi An we have recnetly reviewed
Tour Overview and Pricing

The Hoi An City Tour offers a comprehensive exploration of the historic city, featuring a boat ride and the opportunity to release a flower lantern. Priced from $35.55 per person, the tour lasts 4-5.5 hours and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Guests can reserve their spot with no upfront payment. The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entrance fees, an English-speaking guide, a local dinner, the boat ride, and lantern release.
Exclusions cover personal expenses, tips, and any services not mentioned. Additional fees may apply for pickups from specific resorts.
The tour runs daily, rain or shine, with options for shared or private experiences.
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Itinerary and Highlights

Exploring Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Center, is a highlight of this tour. Visitors will also tour the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall to learn about ancestor worship, and see well-preserved houses like the Phung Hung Ancient House and Tan Ky Ancient House. The Museum of Folk Culture showcases local daily life, while the Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House hosts art shows. The tour culminates in a boat ride and the release of a flower lantern on the Hoai River.
| Highlights | Description |
|---|---|
| Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall | Learn about ancestor worship |
| Phung Hung and Tan Ky Ancient Houses | See well-preserved historical homes |
| Museum of Folk Culture | Explore local daily life exhibits |
| Hoi An Traditional Performing Arts House | Enjoy cultural art shows |
| Boat Ride and Lantern Release | Memorable experience on the Hoai River |
Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour package includes a comprehensive suite of services, such as pickup and drop-off (optional), all entrance fees, an English-speaking tour guide, a local dinner (1 dish), a boat ride and lantern release, and complimentary mineral water.
However, it excludes personal expenses, any services not mentioned, and tips for guides and drivers.
The tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, and the consumption of alcohol and drugs is prohibited.
This Hoi An city tour operates daily, rain or shine, with options available for shared or private tours.
Transportation Details

Pickup isn’t available from certain areas, including Vinpearl Resort Golf Nam Hoi An, Hoiana Resort, Bliss Resort, Tui Blue Resort, and Intercontinental in Sơn Trà.
For these locations, there are additional fees for pickup and drop-off. The fees are 250,000 VND for a group of 1-2 people, 300,000 VND for 3-4 people, and 400,000 VND for 5-12 people.
The tour provides transportation, but there are extra charges if you need to be picked up from specific resorts or hotels not covered by the standard pickup areas.
More Great Tours NearbyImportant Information

The Hoi An City Tour isn’t suitable for wheelchair users as the tour involves walking through the ancient town and navigating uneven terrain.
Alcohol and drugs aren’t allowed during the tour for safety reasons.
However, the tour operates daily, rain or shine, ensuring guests can enjoy the experience regardless of weather conditions.
Travelers have the option to choose between shared or private tours, catering to their preferences and group size.
With a range of inclusions and exclusions, the tour provides a rundown of Hoi An’s rich cultural heritage and scenic attractions.
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Explore Hoi An Ancient Town

Hoi An Ancient Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, beckons visitors with its well-preserved architecture and charming atmosphere. Explore the quaint streets lined with traditional Vietnamese houses, shophouses, and temples. Discover the town’s rich cultural heritage by visiting must-see landmarks:
| Landmark | Description | Significance |
|---|---|---|
| Japanese Bridge | Arched bridge with intricate carvings | Iconic symbol of Hoi An |
| Phung Hung House | 18th-century merchant’s house | Showcases traditional architecture |
| Phuc Kien Assembly Hall | Chinese temple honoring seafaring gods | Represents the town’s diverse history |
Enjoy the vibrant local life, browse handicraft shops, and savor authentic Vietnamese cuisine. Hoi An’s timeless beauty and cultural treasures make it a must-visit destination in Vietnam.
Visit Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall

One of the highlights of the Hoi An City Tour is a visit to the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall. This well-preserved structure offers a glimpse into the rich history and cultural practices of the Chinese community in Hoi An.
Visitors can explore:
- The elaborate altars and shrines dedicated to the Deity of the Sea and other deities.
- Intricate wood carvings and murals depicting scenes from Chinese mythology.
- The central courtyard, where important ceremonies and gatherings were once held.
- The stories of the various Chinese merchant families who built and maintained this assembly hall over the centuries.
This stop on the tour provides a fascinating insight into the multicultural heritage of Hoi An.
Enjoy Boat Ride and Lantern Release

After exploring the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An, visitors can look forward to a relaxing boat ride and the chance to release a flower lantern on the Hoai River. This serene experience allows travelers to connect with local traditions and witness the beauty of the city from a different perspective. The gentle flow of the river, coupled with the vibrant colors of the lanterns, creates a truly mesmerizing sight. As visitors set their lanterns afloat, they can take in the tranquil atmosphere and reflect on the cultural significance of this meaningful ritual.
| Boat Ride | Lantern Release |
|---|---|
| Glide along the Hoai River | Symbolizes letting go of the past |
| Marvel at the picturesque scenery | Brings good luck and prosperity |
| Gain a unique perspective of Hoi An | Creates a visually stunning display |
| Relax and unwind amid the serene setting | Connects visitors with local traditions |
Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Lantern to Release?
Guests can’t bring their own lanterns to release during the tour. The tour includes a boat ride and the release of a flower lantern, which is provided as part of the experience.
Is There a Dress Code for the Tour?
There is no strict dress code for this tour. Comfortable, casual attire is recommended, as you will be walking and boating. Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees is advised out of respect for the cultural sites visited.
Can I Rent a Bicycle During the Tour?
While the tour itinerary doesn’t mention bicycle rentals, guests can likely arrange to rent bikes independently before or after the scheduled activities to explore Hoi An at their own pace during free time.
Is Wifi Available During the Boat Ride?
Unfortunately, there is no mention of Wi-Fi availability during the boat ride in the tour overview. The details focus on the tour activities and inclusions, but don’t specifically address internet connectivity on the boat.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tour?
The tour does not have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are welcome to participate. However, the tour may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility issues, as it involves walking and a boat ride.
Hoi An City Tour – Boat Ride & Release Flower Lantern
Recap
The Hoi An City Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the city’s cultural heritage. From the serene boat ride along the Hoai River to the magical release of flower lanterns, this tour provides a truly enchanting experience. Participants can explore the UNESCO-listed Ancient Town and the Phuc Kien Chinese Assembly Hall, gaining insights into Hoi An’s rich history and traditions.
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