Hoi An Lantern Festival
Jun 12, 2020, 10:01 AM
"One of the most spiritual traditions of Vietnam is the transcendental Hoi An Lantern Festival. History tells that Japanese travellers brought along the art of shaping lanterns which they use to decorate their homes. Since then, the Vietnese began to replicate their actions in order to bring good luck to their households.
"Hoi An Lantern Festival is a unique moment for travellers to contemplate the creativity of local artists and immerse themselves into the ethereal ambience of such a rustic and ancient city.
"The locals believe that the full moon is a crucial time in the lunar month and believe that the lantern festival, which is held to celebrate the full moon, is the perfect time to meditate, observe rituals, reflect on life and worship their ancestors. The monks will burn incense at their temples while giving a ceremony lit by candles.
"During the night, Hoi An shows a different joy as vehicles and bicycles are banned from the old town and the electrical lights are shut off so the tourists can wander around and soak up the atmosphere as the immense layer of lanterns shine through the darkness.
"This soundscape is an excellent way to experience the sound of locals playing board games outside their homes and tourists enjoying a cultural night as musical performances and poetry readings are held along the river edge."
"Hoi An Lantern Festival is a unique moment for travellers to contemplate the creativity of local artists and immerse themselves into the ethereal ambience of such a rustic and ancient city.
"The locals believe that the full moon is a crucial time in the lunar month and believe that the lantern festival, which is held to celebrate the full moon, is the perfect time to meditate, observe rituals, reflect on life and worship their ancestors. The monks will burn incense at their temples while giving a ceremony lit by candles.
"During the night, Hoi An shows a different joy as vehicles and bicycles are banned from the old town and the electrical lights are shut off so the tourists can wander around and soak up the atmosphere as the immense layer of lanterns shine through the darkness.
"This soundscape is an excellent way to experience the sound of locals playing board games outside their homes and tourists enjoying a cultural night as musical performances and poetry readings are held along the river edge."
Hoi An sound recorded by Rafael Diogo. Part of the Hoi An sound guide at www.citiesandmemory.com