Taboo Bamboo Workshop Hoi An | My Review & Experience 2025

I first discovered Taboo Bamboo back in 2016, at a time when the workshop was already getting attention… thanks to a bamboo electric car. Yes, a real, functioning car with a 100% bamboo body. The idea stuck with me, and I never forgot the name. A few days ago, I decided to go back but this time, to take part in one of their workshops.

If you’re looking for a hands-on craft activity, away from the hustle and bustle of central Hoi An, I really think you’ll enjoy it. There’s no artificial folklore here, just genuine learning, using your hands to work with bamboo, at your own pace, in a peaceful and inspiring setting.

In this article, I’ll share my personal thoughts on the experience, what I made, what you can expect from the workshop, and who I think it’s best suited for.

What is Taboo Bamboo in Hoi An?

Taboo Bamboo is not your typical workshop. This place was founded by a passionate artisan, Vo Van Tan, who quite literally grew up working with bamboo. His mission is simple: to show everything that can be made from this plant. And believe me, it goes way beyond woven baskets. We’re talking about furniture, designer lamps, and even everyday objects made entirely from bamboo.

The workshop is located in Cam Thanh, a very touristy area where you can also enjoy Vietnamese basket boat rides, but it’s slightly tucked away, just a few minutes from Hoi An city center. The space is large, well-ventilated, and everything is designed to make you feel comfortable. You’re greeted with a big smile, shown a few creations, and then offered a range of project ideas based on your skill level.

What I loved most was that nothing is forced. You’re guided, but free to customize your creation, experiment with tools, and most importantly, work with bamboo in all its forms.

My Experience: What I Made at Taboo Bamboo

When I first visited in 2016, I was just an observer. But this time, I decided to get hands-on. After a quick tour of the workshop and some clear explanations, I chose to make a bamboo lamp. Nothing overly ambitious, but technical enough to give me a good feel for traditional craftsmanship. I was lucky enough to do the workshop with Tan himself.

The workshop starts with a fascinating introduction to the different species of bamboo, their characteristics, and how they’re used. They also explain the crafting techniques and methods to preserve your creations. It’s a great way to appreciate the richness of the material and the skill behind each piece.

Then comes the moment to get your hands dirty. You begin by selecting a raw piece of bamboo, then move on to cutting, sanding, and assembling. Everything is done with manual tools, sometimes basic, but incredibly effective. You learn to use a saw, a chisel, and even a hand drill to make precise holes. The artisan helps you when needed without doing the work for you.

In just over three hours, I had completed my piece and more importantly, I was genuinely proud of it. It wasn’t perfect, but it had meaning. And above all, it was something I made with my own hands. A real, personal souvenir, far more authentic than anything you’d buy in a shop.

✅ What I Liked

• The setting: a peaceful workshop surrounded by bamboo, perfect to disconnect.
• The welcome: Tan and his team are kind, attentive, and available without being overbearing.
• The atmosphere: no pressure, everyone moves at their own pace in a relaxed environment.
• Creative freedom: you can really customize your object and let your creativity flow.
• The tools and materials: well-prepared, varied, and suitable for both adults and kids.

❌ What I liked a bit less

• Too many choices at the beginning: it can be overwhelming if you don’t have a clear idea when you arrive.
• No fixed path: you need to be a bit autonomous or enjoy figuring things out on your own.
• Not a quick activity: plan ahead here, the idea is to take your time and do things properly.
• Depending on the time of day, it can get quite busy, which might take away from the peaceful and personal atmosphere if you’re looking for something very quiet.
  

How to Get to the Taboo Bamboo Workshop in Hoi An?

The Taboo Bamboo workshop is located in Cam Thanh, to the east of Hoi An’s Old Town. While it’s a touristy area, the workshop itself is peaceful and tucked away, away from traffic which adds to the calm vibe of the experience.

You can get there:

• By bicycle: allow about 15 minutes from the Old Town. It’s a beautiful ride through rice fields and small country paths.
• By scooter or car: even faster, it takes around 5 to 10 minutes.
• By Grab or local taxi: an easy and affordable option if you don’t want to drive.

Once you arrive at the parking lot, turn right and walk past the mural to find the entrance.

There’s enough space to park a bike or scooter. I recommend arriving a bit early to enjoy the natural surroundings before starting the workshop.

Practical Information for the Taboo Bamboo Workshop

• Address: Thanh Tam Dong, Tran Nhan Tong Street, Cam Thanh, Hoi An
• Opening hours: Open daily from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
• Bamboo crafting sessions: 8:30 AM and 2:00 PM only
• Email: taboobambooworkshop@gmail.com
• Workshop duration: Around 2 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity of your creation and your level of focus.
• Price: 700,000 VND if booked on-site or via Viator
• Language: The workshop is conducted in English
• Booking: Strongly recommended, especially during high season or on weekends

One last tip: Avoid wearing delicate clothes, you’ll be handling glue, bamboo, wood dust, and staying focused on your creation!

My Opinion

If you’re looking for an original, creative, and authentic activity to do in Hoi An, I can only recommend Taboo Bamboo. Far from the usual touristy attractions, this workshop immerses you in a unique artisanal world, with a passionate team that truly takes the time to guide you.

What I appreciated the most was the peaceful setting, the freedom to create, and the quality support throughout the experience. You leave not only with a handmade object, but also with a real memory, something you crafted yourself. And honestly, that’s priceless.

This isn’t a rushed activity. You take your time, you learn, you create, and you connect with passionate people. In short, a wonderful experience that I’d gladly do again with friends or family.