Hoi An, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Vietnam, is renowned for its rich cultural heritage and historical significance. Among its many cultural landmarks, the Chinese Assembly Halls stand out as key representations of the town's diverse Chinese communities. These halls, established by various Chinese groups such as the Cantonese, Fujian, Teochew, Hainan, and Hakka, are not just places of worship but also serve as centers for community gatherings and cultural exchange.
Each assembly hall reflects its community’s architectural style, religious practices, and social importance, offering a unique glimpse into the Chinese influence on Hoi An's history, culture, and urban landscape. In this guide from Your Vietnam Travel, we’ll explore the history, architecture, and significance of these assembly halls, along with practical tips for visitors looking to immerse themselves in this fascinating aspect of Hoi An.
The Chinese community is one of the most significant groups in Hoi An, second only to the Vietnamese community. Its presence dates back to the late 16th century when the first Chinese merchants arrived to trade in the town. Some of them decided to settle here and marry locals. By the early 17th century, the Chinese had established their own trading quarter, which could be considered the "Chinatown" of Hoi An. Around the same time, the Japanese also formed their own district near the Japanese Bridge.
The fall of the Ming dynasty in the early 17th century prompted a large wave of Chinese migration to Southeast Asia, and Hoi An was one of the stops along the way. Later, following the Opium Wars, the Taiping Rebellion, and the 1911 Revolution, many more Chinese fled China to start anew in Southeast Asian countries, with Hoi An once again being a key destination.
Chinese merchants settled in Hoi An from the late 16th century (Source: Collected)
Despite the steady decline of Hoi An’s trading port during the 19th and 20th centuries, the Chinese community remained and continued to contribute to the development of the town.
Today, the Chinese community in Hoi An is divided into five main groups: Cantonese, Fujian, Teochew, Hainan, and Hakka, all of which originated from coastal cities in southern China. Each group has its own assembly hall where they gather for worship and communal activities. In addition to these assembly halls, which are known as "pagodas" by the local Vietnamese, the Chinese also built temples, communal houses, Confucian temples, and many traditional homes.
Learn more: How Many Days in Hoi An? The Complete Travel Guide
The Chinese assembly halls in Hoi An are remarkable cultural landmarks that reflect the diversity of the local Chinese communities. Each assembly hall serves not only as a place for community gatherings but also as a destination rich in historical significance and unique architectural styles. Below are some of the most notable assembly halls:
Fujian Assembly Hall in Hoian (Source: TripAdvisor)
The Fujian Assembly Hall, or Phúc Kiến Assembly Hall, is a historic and cultural landmark in Hoi An. Built in 1757, it stands as a significant symbol of the Fujianese community, the earliest and largest Chinese group to settle in the town. Originally serving as a small shrine dedicated to the Sea Goddess Thien Hau, it has evolved into a grand assembly hall over the centuries.
Located on Trần Phú Street, the hall is a center of faith and cultural celebration, hosting festivals such as Tết Nguyên Tiêu (Lantern Festival) and Vía Thiên Hậu (Goddess of the Sea Festival). The hall is renowned for its beautiful blend of traditional Chinese architecture and its serene, sacred atmosphere. Visitors are welcomed by intricate designs, large incense coils, and a vibrant altar, all creating a mystical ambiance that celebrates the protection and prosperity Thien Hau offers to sailors and merchants.
The hall is also a popular spot for tourists and photographers, thanks to its picturesque layout, featuring bonsai trees, lanterns, and colorful murals that depict the legend of Thien Hau’s protection over the seas.
Whether you’re drawn to its spiritual significance, cultural richness, or architectural beauty, a visit to the Fujian Assembly Hall offers a unique glimpse into Hoi An’s Chinese heritage.
Cantonese Assembly Hall in Hoian (Source: Collected)
The Cantonese Assembly Hall, or Quảng Triệu Assembly Hall, stands as a prominent reminder of the enduring presence of the Cantonese community in Hoi An. Constructed in 1885, this historic hall was a hub for Cantonese merchants who gathered to worship and seek blessings for safe journeys and prosperous trade. It’s dedicated to Quan Công, a revered Chinese general known for his loyalty and integrity. The hall also celebrates the broader spirit of the Cantonese community, fostering mutual support and cultural exchange.
Located on Trần Phú Street, near the river, the hall is an architectural gem, blending wood and stone in a harmonious design. Its detailed craftsmanship, along with the iconic dragon and carp motifs, enhances its cultural value. The courtyard is home to a dragon-and-carp fountain made from colorful ceramics, which adds to the hall’s charm.
Although smaller than other assembly halls in Hoi An, the Cantonese Assembly Hall offers an intimate yet grand atmosphere. Inside, the soft glow of lanterns illuminates intricate wooden altars, and the air is filled with the scent of sandalwood incense, creating a tranquil, sacred environment.
Visitors can also enjoy major festivals held at the hall, such as the Quan Công Commemoration Day on June 24th (lunar calendar) and the Lantern Festival (Tết Nguyên Tiêu), which feature traditional ceremonies, cultural performances, and vibrant street processions. The Cantonese Assembly Hall remains a lively center of cultural and religious life in Hoi An, deeply connected to the city's rich Chinese heritage.
Hainan Assembly Hall in Hoian (Source: Collected)
The Hainan Assembly Hall, built in 1875, is a solemn and significant landmark in Hoi An, created to honor 108 Hainanese merchants who were tragically wrongfully executed in 1851. This hall stands as both a memorial and a place of worship, celebrating the lives and sacrifices of those who played an important role in Hoi An's maritime trade.
Located on the historic Trần Phú Street, the assembly hall follows traditional Chinese architectural styles and features a layout shaped like the character "Quốc" (國), symbolizing unity and strength. The structure includes a front hall, grand main hall, and side halls, each richly decorated with intricate details.
The central altar pays tribute to the 108 merchants, who were posthumously honored by Emperor Tự Đức as Trung Đẳng Thần (Middle-Rank Deities). Their memory is preserved in the hall through murals depicting sea voyages, ancestral tablets, and large wooden plaques inscribed with Chinese characters that tell their tragic story.
Though less grand in comparison to some other assembly halls in Hoi An, the Hainan Assembly Hall exudes a quiet dignity. It remains an important place for the Hainanese community in Hoi An, offering a space for worship, reflection, and cultural remembrance. Visitors can also explore the hall’s peaceful atmosphere, enhanced by the soft glow of lanterns and the solemnity of its history.
The gate of Trung Hoa Assembly Hall in Hoian (Source: Collected)
The Trung Hoa Assembly Hall, also known as Dương Thương Assembly Hall or Ba Pagoda, was built in 1741 and serves as a prominent cultural and spiritual center in Hoi An. This assembly hall is unique for being a shared space for five distinct Chinese communities: Fujian, Chaozhou, Guangdong, Hainan, and Jia Ying. It stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of these groups, who came together to create a central meeting place for worship, social activities, and educational purposes.
Dedicated primarily to Thiên Hậu Thánh Mẫu (Mazu), the Goddess of the Sea, the hall also honors two other deities, Thiên Lý Nhãn (Thousand-Mile Eyes) and Thuận Phong Nhĩ (Favorable-Wind Ears, who assist Thiên Hậu in ensuring safe voyages for sailors and merchants. The Trung Hoa Assembly Hall is an important space where these diverse communities gather for festivals, rituals, and other cultural events.
The architecture of the Trung Hoa Assembly Hall is a blend of traditional Chinese design and local influences. Notably, it is the only assembly hall in Hoi An painted in a vibrant blue, setting it apart from the predominantly red-hued halls. The hall is designed with a harmonious layout that includes a grand entrance gate, multiple courtyards, a pavilion, and the main hall, each contributing to the hall's spiritual and communal atmosphere.
In addition to its religious functions, the Trung Hoa Assembly Hall serves as an educational center, where children of the Chinese community learn the Chinese language and etiquette. This makes it a central institution not only for spiritual worship but also for the preservation and promotion of Chinese culture in Hoi An.
Teochew Assembly Hall in Hoian (Source: Collected)
The Teochew Assembly Hall, also known as Chùa Ông Bổn, was established before 1845 as a vital cultural and spiritual center for the Teochew Chinese community in Hoi An. This assembly hall has long served as a meeting place for Teochew merchants and residents, providing a space for religious worship, community events, and cultural celebrations.
Dedicated to Ma Yuan, a revered military general from the 1st century AD, the hall honors him as Fubo Jiangjun, the "General Who Calms the Waves." As a protector of sailors and merchants, Ma Yuan is worshiped here by those seeking safe voyages and good fortune in their business endeavors.
The Teochew Assembly Hall is renowned for its architectural beauty and intricate decoration. It stands as one of the most ornate assembly halls in Hoi An, featuring a striking red color, multi-tiered structure, and detailed craftsmanship. Its design showcases the rich artistic traditions of the Teochew community, with every corner adorned with symbolic motifs and decorations that reflect their deep cultural heritage.
The hall is particularly lively during two major annual celebrations: the Tết Nguyên Tiêu (Lantern Festival) and the Ancestor Commemoration Ceremony, held on the 16th day of the first lunar month. These events are marked by vibrant rituals, spiritual offerings, and cultural performances, reaffirming the strong ties between the Teochew people and their traditions.
While there is no formal dress code enforcement at Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An, it is important to dress respectfully to honor the local culture and the sacredness of these spaces. Visitors are encouraged to wear long, modest clothing that covers the armpits, navel, and upper knees. Outfits should avoid being see-through or revealing, meaning shorts, tank tops, swimsuits, and similar attire are not suitable.
On hot days, a simple solution is to wear a long piece of fabric, such as a swimwear wrap, to cover the body while inside the assembly hall. You can remove it after leaving the temple.
Additionally, during the rainy season, it is polite to remove hats, caps, umbrellas, sunglasses, and rain jackets before entering the worshipping areas to show respect for the sacred environment.
Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An welcome all visitors, regardless of religion, gender, or nationality, and photography is permitted, allowing you to capture the beauty and spiritual atmosphere of these historic landmarks.
Dress modestly cover shoulders and knees remove hats at Chinese Assembly Halls (Source: Collected)
To ensure a respectful and enjoyable visit, follow these tips on appropriate dress, behavior, and photography etiquette. With these guidelines in mind, you’ll be ready to explore and appreciate the cultural and spiritual significance of the Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An.
While exploring the Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An, you can also visit a variety of nearby attractions that showcase the town's rich history and cultural heritage:
These attractions provide a deeper insight into the traditions, architecture, and culture of Hoi An, making them perfect additions to your visit.
Yes, Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An are open to the public. They are welcoming spaces for both locals and tourists to explore, learn about the cultural and spiritual heritage, and experience the architectural beauty.
Yes, there is typically an entrance fee of 120,000 VND for adults and children over 15 years old. The fee helps maintain the halls and preserve their historical significance.
Photography is usually allowed inside the Chinese Assembly Halls, but it is always polite to ask for permission, especially during religious ceremonies or rituals. Avoid using flash or disruptive equipment that might disturb the atmosphere.
A visit to a Chinese Assembly Hall generally takes around 15 to 30 minutes, depending on your interest in the history, architecture, and the overall experience you wish to have.
Yes, Chinese Assembly Halls are family-friendly and suitable for children. They offer an educational experience, giving families a chance to explore cultural traditions, architectural beauty, and history together in a peaceful environment.
The Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An are vibrant centers of cultural and spiritual life, honoring the traditions of the local Chinese communities. With their stunning architecture, historical significance, and role in festivals, these halls offer an enriching experience. Visiting them provides a deeper understanding of Hoi An’s multicultural heritage and its growth as a port town, making it a must-see during your trip.
To make the most of your visit to Hoi An’s Chinese Assembly Halls and other cultural landmarks, consider reaching out to Your Vietnam Travel for expert guidance and personalized tours that bring the rich history and traditions of Vietnam to life. Let us help you create unforgettable experiences!
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