Hoi An leads the list of 7 world lantern festivals

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Hoi An tops the list of 7 world lantern festivals

The lantern festival in Hoi An stands out as the only monthly event in this list by AFAR, alongside big names like Thailand, Japan.

Hoi An tops the list of 7 world lantern festivals

The lantern festival is a pride of Hoi An locals, taking place on the full moon day every month. It's not just a remarkable tourist attraction, but also reflects the local identity and long-standing culture.

On the 15th lunar day, every alleyway is adorned with lanterns replacing electric lights. This creates a unique feature for anyone visiting Hoi An.

Besides the lanterns hanging along the ancient streets, releasing floating lanterns is also an unmissable activity when visiting Hoi An. The flickering light drifting along the Thu Bon River carries wishes for peace and good fortune, becoming a symbol of the Quang region.

Not only the lantern festival in Hoi An, AFAR also lists impressive lantern festivals around the world such as the spring lantern festival in Hong Kong (China) or the Pingxi sky lantern festival in Taiwan (China) at the beginning of each new year. This is an opportunity for travelers to experience traditional Tet in Asian culture.

In this list, Thailand is also mentioned twice with the Yi Peng sky lantern festival in Chiang Mai taking place on the full moon day of the 12th lunar month according to the Thai calendar. In the past, this festival had religious significance, but now it has become one of the most attractive tourist destinations in the Land of the Golden Temples.

Loi Krathong is held at the same time as the Chiang Mai sky lantern festival in Thailand and is also included in this list. However, this festival is characterized by traditional Krathong baskets made of banana leaves, filled with candles and traditional scents, released into the river.

Additionally, the Nagasaki lantern festival (Japan) is also an unmissable destination every spring. In addition to lanterns, visitors can also enjoy lion dance performances, street parades, etc., in Chinatown in Nagasaki province.

The lantern floating festival in Oahu (Hawaii, USA) is the only name in the list that does not come from Asia. This activity is part of a memorial ceremony to honor and remember loved ones who have passed away of the local people here.

According to Monster

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Reference: Travel Guide from Mytour

MytourNovember 24, 2022

Frequently Asked Questions

What cultural significance does the lantern festival in Hoi An hold for locals?

The lantern festival in Hoi An is a vital cultural event that reflects the local identity and traditions of the community. Taking place on the full moon day every month, it showcases the pride of Hoi An's residents. The streets are beautifully illuminated with colorful lanterns, creating a serene and enchanting atmosphere that highlights the town's rich cultural heritage.

How does the Hoi An lantern festival differ from other global lantern festivals?

The Hoi An lantern festival is unique because it occurs monthly on the full moon, transforming the city into a breathtaking spectacle of light. Unlike other global festivals that may occur annually, Hoi An's event is a continuous celebration of culture, drawing tourists to experience its distinct local charm, as well as the custom of releasing floating lanterns on the Thu Bon River.

Can you describe the experience of releasing floating lanterns during the festival?

Releasing floating lanterns during the Hoi An lantern festival is a magical experience. Visitors can participate in this tradition by sending their wishes for peace and good fortune down the Thu Bon River. As the flickering lights drift away, they symbolize hopes and dreams, creating a serene atmosphere that enchants everyone present. This activity also fosters a deep connection to the cultural significance of the festival.

What other lantern festivals are mentioned alongside Hoi An in global travel recommendations?

In addition to Hoi An, notable lantern festivals include the Spring Lantern Festival in Hong Kong, the Pingxi Sky Lantern Festival in Taiwan, and the Yi Peng Sky Lantern Festival in Chiang Mai, Thailand. These events are celebrated for their vibrant displays and cultural richness, attracting tourists eager to experience traditional Asian festivities and immerse themselves in local customs.

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