Lantern Street in Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Luong Nhu Hoc Lantern Street, is a vibrant and enchanting destination that comes alive during the Mid-Autumn Festival and other festive occasions. Located in District 5’s Chinatown, the street is adorned with numerous shops and stalls offering a dazzling array of lanterns and festive accessories. It provides you with a unique opportunity to immerse themselves in the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam, witness the vibrant colors of lantern displays, and capture memorable moments in this magical setting.
Location of Lantern Street
Lantern Street, also known as Luong Nhu Hoc Lantern Street, is located in District 5 of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The street stretches from the crossroads of Nguyen Trai and Luong Nhu Hoc Streets to the crossroads of Tran Hung Dao and Luong Nhu Hoc Streets. It is situated in the heart of Chinatown, surrounded by the bustling streets of Nguyen Trai, Tran Hung Dao, and Nguyen An.
To get to Lantern Street from District 1, the city center of Ho Chi Minh City, you can take a taxi or use a ride-hailing App. The distance between District 1 and Lantern Street in District 5 is approximately 5 kilometers, depending on the specific starting point. The taxi fare can vary depending on traffic conditions and the taxi company, but it typically ranges from 60,000 to 100,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND) or more.
Best time to visit Lantern Street
The best time to visit Lantern Street is during the Mid-Autumn Festival, which typically takes place at the end of September or the beginning of October, and Tet (Lunar New Year), which usually occurs in February or sometimes late January.
These celebrations bring an extra vibrancy to the street with lanterns, decorations, and cultural activities. It’s recommended to visit the street closer to these specific dates to experience the festive atmosphere at its peak. However, lantern shops can still be found on Luong Nhu Hoc Street throughout the year, providing visitors with the opportunity to explore and find lanterns to enjoy regardless of the season.
Additionally, exploring these streets at night is the best time of the day, when many of the lanterns are beautifully lit up, creating a magical and enchanting ambiance.
Exploring the lantern streets
Exploring the lantern streets is a fun experience with vibrant colors, cultural traditions, and festive atmosphere. Luong Nhu Hoc Street, in particular, offers a wide variety of lanterns for sale, ranging from cellophane and paper lanterns to fabric and electric lanterns.
You’ll find cellophane lanterns, adorned with beautiful shapes such as stars, carps, rabbits, dragons, and butterflies. These lanterns are popular among kids and are often priced at less than 100,000 VND ($4.32 USD) for medium-sized ones. Another unique option is the beer can lantern, creatively made by cutting slices around a beer can, which costs less than 50,000 VND ($2.16 USD).
Paper lanterns, available in a multitude of shapes and colors, are elegant and fashionable. They are not only used as toys during the Mid-Autumn Festival but also serve as decorative items in houses, restaurants, and hotels. Fabric lanterns, made from bamboo and covered with silk or brocade, offer a touch of sophistication and are perfect for adding a cultural touch to your home decor.
When it comes to choosing lanterns as a tourist, paper and fabric lanterns are the best options. They are lightweight, easy to pack in your bag, and serve as memorable souvenirs of your visit to the lantern streets.
Aside from lanterns, the streets also offer a range of other attractions. You can tantalize your taste buds with a variety of street food stalls that come alive in the evening. Indulge in local delicacies and savor the flavors of Vietnam while immersing yourself in the vibrant atmosphere of the lantern-lit streets.
To add to the excitement, traditional games stalls are set up during the festival times, where you can test your luck and skills.
Other sights around
Located in the vibrant Chinatown, the lantern streets of Ho Chi Minh City offer more than just a mesmerizing display of lanterns. The area is surrounded by numerous temples, allowing you to explore the rich cultural heritage and spirituality of the Chinese community. Additionally, the bustling Binh Tay Market is a must-visit destination, offering a wide range of local products and a glimpse into the daily lives of the Vietnamese people.
Keep in mind that these places tend to close in the late evening, so it’s advisable to start your exploration in the late morning or early afternoon, ensuring you have ample time to soak in the sights and end when your day ends you visit the enchanting glow of the lanterns.
