Ink has a way of slowing time. In a small workshop at the Hoi An Calligraphy Gallery by Master of Art Huynh Dong, you trade hectic Old Town strolling for quiet focus, tea breaks, and real hands-on practice using Do rice paper. You’ll learn the craft, then make your own piece with fur pen and Chinese ink, while he shares the cultural context behind Vietnamese calligraphy.

Two things I really like: you work on both ancient and modern Vietnamese calligraphy, and the class isn’t only about technique—it also connects the art to how Vietnamese culture developed over time. I also love the payoff at the end: Master Huynh Dong makes a calligraphy work on rice paper with your name or your idea, so you leave with a meaningful souvenir instead of just photos.

One consideration: this is an art-class rhythm for about 2 hours, so if you’re hunting for rapid sightseeing stops, this may feel more focused on creating than wandering.

Key things worth knowing before you go

• Max 5 people: A small group size helps you get attention and guidance.
• Fur pen + Chinese ink: You’ll practice the real tools, not a simplified gimmick.
• Ancient and modern Vietnamese styles: You get a range, not just one look.
• Do rice paper artwork time: You create something you can actually keep and show.
• Tea and calm pacing: Expect a slow, gentle session that contrasts with Old Town crowds.
• Personalized final gift: You get a rice-paper calligraphy made with your name or idea.

A Small-Class Calligraphy Workshop in Old Town Hoi An

This class is designed for people who want a quieter side of Hoi An. Old Town can be nonstop—lanes full of scooters, lanterns, and tours moving in packs. Here, the setting is more like a break in the day, where you sit, sip tea, and focus on ink, strokes, and paper.

The group stays small (up to 5 travelers), which matters. In a craft where control and timing are everything, more attention usually means better results and less frustration. You still get structure—just not the hurried, conveyor-belt feeling that comes with bigger tours.

Duration is about 2 hours, so it’s a manageable commitment. You can fit it into a morning or afternoon without needing to rebuild your whole itinerary around it.

Master of Art Huynh Dong’s Background (and why it adds value)

The teacher matters here, and the credentials are impressive on paper. Huynh Dong was born in 1958 and calls the Ancient City of Hoi An his native home. He started education early, beginning with Chinese calligraphy, and then branched into arts and culture.

His academic training spans multiple fields: Vietnamese Philology (Hue University of Pedagogy), Psychology and Education (University of Pedagogy in Hanoi), Foreign Languages (University of Da Nang), and a Master’s degree in Arts from the University of Ha Noi. That mix sounds unusual, but it actually fits a workshop style—technical craft plus cultural explanation plus the ability to communicate clearly.

In the reviews, the recurring theme is his calm teaching manner. Expect a gentle, kind approach, not a drill-sergeant vibe. And because he has years of practice behind the scenes, your questions don’t feel like interruptions—they feel like part of the lesson.

What you’ll learn: ancient + modern Vietnamese calligraphy

You’re not limited to one type of writing. The class covers both ancient and modern Vietnamese calligraphy, and that range is useful if you’re curious about how the same art form can look different across eras.

You’ll also get cultural history as part of the instruction. That turns calligraphy from a decorative activity into something you understand. When someone explains the traditional meaning and context behind what you’re making, your final piece feels more personal and less random.

Even if your background is zero—no art experience, no previous practice—this is framed as learning through guided steps. The goal isn’t to turn you into a calligrapher in one session. It’s to help you recognize what good strokes and spacing are, then let you apply that to your own artwork.

The hands-on part: fur pen, Chinese ink, and Do rice paper

This is the part most people remember. You’ll create your own calligraphy artwork using fur pen, Chinese ink, and traditional Vietnamese Do rice paper. That trio matters because it changes how the ink behaves and how the brush feels in your hand.

On paper like this, the experience is tactile. One review describes the smooth sensation of ink on paper, and that tracks with what you should expect: this isn’t felt-tip marker work. You’ll learn how to control the stroke so it looks intentional instead of rushed.

The workshop also gives you a structure for creativity. You’ll have the chance to create something based on what you learn rather than copying a template blindly. And if you’re unsure what you want at the start, you’re not stuck—Master Huynh Dong will also later make a calligraphy piece based on your name or your idea.

Practical tip: wear or bring clothing you don’t mind getting ink on. Even with careful handling, ink crafts have a way of being messy. You’ll be more relaxed if you plan for that.

Drawing folk paintings and water-color landscapes too

Calligraphy takes the spotlight, but you’re not only doing letters. The class also includes learning how to draw traditional folk paintings and landscape paintings by water color.

This is a nice bonus because it expands the session beyond one skill set. Calligraphy uses rhythm and control; water-color landscapes use observation and softer technique. If you enjoy switching gears—learning one craft, then seeing how another visual language works—this format will feel satisfying.

It also helps if you’re traveling with someone who wants something visual but doesn’t care only about writing. You’re still in the same workshop space, but the lesson gives you multiple creative outlets.

And honestly, the added art practice can make the 2 hours feel fuller. Instead of “write, write, write,” you get a bit of variety that keeps your attention.

Tea, calm pacing, and a break from Old Town crowds

One of the most praised aspects is the tone. The teacher is described as soft spoken, calm, and kind, and the experience has a slow, thoughtful pace. That’s a big deal in Hoi An, where the Ancient City can sometimes feel like one long crush of people and noise.

In this workshop, you’re encouraged to slow down. One review literally frames it as inking around: sip tea, feel the ink on paper, and settle into the process.

If you’re the type who gets overwhelmed by crowds, this class can be a great counterbalance. If you’re the type who always wants to do one more activity, this still works because it gives you a creative output and a story, not just another quick stop.

The personalized rice-paper gift: name or idea

The end of the class is more than you watching your own piece dry. After the course, Master Huynh Dong creates a calligraphy work on rice paper with your name or your idea, and it’s presented as a gift.

That matters for two reasons. First, you get a souvenir that’s tied to you personally. Second, it takes the pressure off if you worry you won’t produce something perfect during the session. You still do create your own artwork, but the final gift adds a second, more personal layer.

This also makes the class easier for gift-givers. If you’re buying something for someone back home, a personalized calligraphy piece on rice paper is the kind of item that feels thoughtful, not generic.

Price and value: $37 for a 2-hour art session with a Master

At $37 per person, you’re paying for more than materials. You’re paying for time with a trained teacher, guided instruction, and a class format that stays small (max 5 travelers).

The value improves when you consider what’s included in your session:

• You create your own calligraphy artwork on traditional paper
• You use fur pen and Chinese ink
• You learn calligraphy history and craft basics
• You also learn folk painting and watercolor landscape drawing
• You receive a personalized rice-paper calligraphy gift made by Master Huynh Dong

In other words, it’s not just a “try it once” activity. You’re building a skill foundation and getting a keepsake. For a short, 2-hour commitment, that’s a strong trade—especially if you want something cultural and tangible in Hoi An.

One more value note: the small group size helps prevent the class from turning into a show-and-watch format. If you’ve ever tried a craft workshop where the instructor spends more time teaching than troubleshooting, you’ll appreciate the calmer attention here.

Logistics that affect your day

The meeting point is 33 Nguyễn Thái Học, Phường Minh An, Hội An, Quảng Nam, Vietnam. The activity ends back at the meeting point, so you won’t be juggling transport afterward.

You’ll get a mobile ticket, and confirmation comes at the time of booking. The class is set up so most travelers can participate, which helps if you’re traveling with mixed experience levels (creative confidence vs. “I can’t even draw a straight line”).

If you’re choosing between different activities in Hoi An, think about timing. A 2-hour workshop is easiest when you’re not rushing to catch a bus or squeeze in a late-night show. It works best when you can slow down and enjoy the calm pacing.

If plans change, cancellation is free as long as you cancel at least 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Who should book this calligraphy class

This class fits best if you want:

• A calmer experience than the typical Old Town crush
• A hands-on cultural activity with real craft tools
• A personalized keepsake you’ll actually want to keep
• A short session that still feels meaningful

It’s also a good option if you enjoy quiet learning. If you like structured instruction with room for questions and a gentle pace, you’ll probably feel right at home.

If your travel style is all about high-adrenaline adventures and constant movement, this might feel too slow. But if you’ve ever wished you could do something creative without needing a whole day, this is a solid fit.

Should you book this Hoi An calligraphy learning class?

Yes, you should book it if you want something authentic, hands-on, and small-group in the Ancient City area. The mix of ancient and modern Vietnamese calligraphy, plus the practical use of fur pen, Chinese ink, and Do rice paper, makes it more than a photo stop. Add in the personalized rice-paper gift made by Master Huynh Dong, and you get a souvenir with real meaning.

Skip it only if you’re mainly looking for fast sightseeing or if a calm, art-focused workshop doesn’t match your pace. Otherwise, this is one of those rare activities where you leave with a story, a skill you can talk about, and a piece of paper you’ll be happy to hang at home.

FAQ

How much does the calligraphy learning class cost?

The price is $37.00 per person.

How long is the experience?

It lasts about 2 hours.

Where is the meeting point for the class?

The start point is 33 Nguyễn Thái Học, Phường Minh An, Hội An, Quảng Nam, Vietnam, and it ends back at the meeting point.

What’s included in the class?

You learn ancient and modern Vietnamese calligraphy, create your own calligraphy artwork using fur pen, Chinese ink, and traditional Vietnamese Do rice paper, and you also learn how to draw traditional folk paintings and watercolor landscape paintings. After the course, Master Huynh Dong also creates a rice-paper calligraphy work with your name or your idea as a gift.

Is there a limit on group size?

Yes. The experience has a maximum of 5 travelers.

Will I get confirmation after booking?

Confirmation is received at the time of booking.

Do I need to bring a ticket?

You receive a mobile ticket.

Is the experience suitable for most travelers?

Most travelers can participate.

What is the cancellation policy?

Free cancellation is available. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.