Exploring the rich history and symbolism of paper lanterns across Vietnam, China, and Japan
Paper lanterns have long been a symbol of light, celebration, and spiritual connection across Asia. Their delicate structure and glowing presence evoke a sense of nostalgia, tradition, and artistry that transcends generations. From ancient dynasties to modern design, paper lanterns continue to illuminate homes, festivals, and hearts. At Dunnere, we honor this timeless charm by crafting lanterns that blend heritage with contemporary elegance.
🌕 Origins: From Han Dynasty to Hội An and Japan
The story of paper lanterns begins over 2,000 years ago in China during the Han Dynasty. Originally made from silk or oiled paper stretched over bamboo frames, lanterns were used to light homes and temples. But they quickly evolved into cultural icons—symbols of prosperity, protection, and celebration.
In Vietnam, lanterns gained prominence during the Lê and Nguyễn dynasties, especially in the ancient town of Hội An. Artisans developed collapsible silk lanterns with bamboo frames, often dyed in vibrant reds, yellows, and blues. Hội An’s lanterns became famous for their rounded shapes and intricate patterns, and today, the town hosts monthly lantern festivals where thousands of glowing lanterns float down the Thu Bồn River, each carrying a wish.
Japan’s lantern tradition, known as chochin, dates back to the 16th century. These lanterns, made from washi paper and wooden or bamboo frames, were used in temples, shrines, and festivals. Japanese lanterns often feature calligraphy or family crests and are known for their minimalist beauty and spiritual symbolism.
✨ Symbolism: Light, Luck, and Spirit
Across cultures, paper lanterns carry deep symbolic meaning. In China and Vietnam, red lanterns are associated with joy, good fortune, and celebration. They are commonly displayed during Lunar New Year, weddings, and business openings to attract prosperity.
White lanterns in Japan are used in ceremonies to honor the deceased, symbolizing purity and the soul’s journey. Gold lanterns represent wealth and success, while floating lanterns—released into rivers or skies—symbolize letting go of the past and sending wishes into the universe.
Lanterns also serve as spiritual guides. In Buddhist traditions, they represent enlightenment and the path to wisdom. Their gentle glow is believed to ward off evil spirits and bring harmony to the home.
🎉 Festivals That Illuminate the Night
Paper lanterns are central to some of Asia’s most beloved festivals, each with its own unique traditions and meanings.
🧧 Lunar New Year (China & Vietnam)
During Lunar New Year, streets and homes are adorned with red lanterns to welcome prosperity and drive away bad luck. In China, the Lantern Festival marks the end of the New Year celebrations with lantern riddles, dragon dances, and fireworks. In Vietnam, lanterns are hung to honor ancestors and celebrate spring’s arrival.
🌕 Tết Trung Thu (Mid-Autumn Festival – Vietnam)
Tết Trung Thu is a celebration of harvest, family, and childhood. Children parade through neighborhoods holding star-shaped lanterns, singing traditional songs. Families gather to eat mooncakes and admire the full moon. Lanterns symbolize unity, joy, and the light of hope.
🏮 Obon Festival (Japan)
Obon is a Buddhist festival honoring ancestral spirits. Families light lanterns and place them in rivers or oceans to guide spirits back to the afterlife. The sight of hundreds of glowing lanterns floating on water creates a breathtaking and deeply spiritual experience.
🧵 Craftsmanship: The Art Behind the Glow
Creating a paper lantern is a delicate process that requires skill, patience, and artistry. At Dunnere, we work with artisans who use traditional techniques passed down through generations.
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Frames are made from bamboo or rattan, shaped into spheres, cylinders, or lotus forms.
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Paper or silk is dyed, painted, or printed with motifs like flowers, dragons, or calligraphy.
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Assembly involves stretching the material over the frame, securing it with glue or thread, and adding tassels or metal caps.
Each lantern is a labor of love, often taking hours to complete. The result is a piece that’s lightweight, durable, and visually stunning—ready to bring warmth and beauty to any space.
🏡 Modern Applications: Tradition Meets Design
While lanterns are rooted in tradition, they’ve found a place in modern design and lifestyle. Today, paper lanterns are used in:
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Home decor: Hanging lanterns in living rooms, patios, or bedrooms adds warmth and character.
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Event styling: Weddings, birthdays, and cultural events use lanterns to create ambiance.
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Retail & hospitality: Cafes, restaurants, and boutiques use lanterns to evoke charm and elegance.
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DIY culture: Many people enjoy crafting their own lanterns, adding personal touches and creativity.
Dunnere offers a wide range of lanterns—from classic silk designs to minimalist paper styles—allowing customers to blend tradition with contemporary aesthetics.
🌱 Dunnere’s Role: Preserving Heritage, Inspiring Light
At Dunnere, we believe that every lantern tells a story. Our mission is to preserve the cultural heritage of paper lanterns while inspiring new generations to embrace their beauty. We collaborate with local artisans, use eco-friendly materials, and design lanterns that honor tradition while fitting seamlessly into modern life.
Whether you’re decorating for a festival, hosting a dinner party, or simply seeking a moment of calm, a lantern from Dunnere brings light in every sense of the word.
Final Thought: Paper lanterns are more than just ornaments—they’re symbols of hope, history, and human connection. As they continue to glow across cultures and generations, they remind us that even the simplest light can carry profound meaning. Let Dunnere help you light the way.
