Lanterns and Asian culture

For many centuries, paper lanterns are popular in China, Taiwan, Japan, and Korea. For the early days, they are hung outside companies and stores to attract customers.

In Vietnam, in early 17th century, when foreign merchants came to trade starting from Hoi An, they often brought lanterns and hung them outside their shops. Gradually, this culture was absorbed by local people and became more commonly used later.

For Asian people, releasing lanterns into the sky carries the message that they wish good things to everyone and send prayers to the sky. And outdoor hanging lanterns are often used in Lunar New Year, Mid-Autumn or Festival. In Thailand, the Yi Peng lantern festival is also an important day. With a long-standing traditional festival, they will release many, many lanterns into the sky, creating a sparkling and magical space.

Hoi An lanterns have long become a characteristic image about traditional handmade products. Hoi An lanterns are mainly made from wood, bamboo (frame) and silk fabric (outer cover). They have high durability. Making lanterns has become traditional handicrafts of Vietnam.

Meaning of different types of lanterns:

+ Red lanterns represent luck

+ Pink lanterns represent romance.

+ Peach red lanterns represent determination and opportunity

+ Orange-yellow lanterns represent money

+ Yellow lanterns represent success

+ White lanterns represent health

+ Green lanterns represent growth

+ Blue lanterns represent hope

+ Violet lanterns represent idealism