5 Chinese Assembly Halls of Hoi An Ancient Town

By huynhtuyen | Posted in Hue | January 17, 2025

Chinese Assembly Halls of Hoi An are a group of historically significant structures that highlight the town’s diverse cultural influences. These halls served as community centers, places of worship, and symbols of Chinese heritage in Hoi An. Each hall is dedicated to a specific Chinese clan or deity, featuring distinct architectural styles, vibrant colors, and intricate carvings that blend traditional Chinese design with local Vietnamese elements. Today, these halls remain cultural treasures, drawing visitors who are keen to explore Hoi An’s multicultural past and witness the lasting impact of its Chinese community.

History of Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An

Chinese Assembly Halls of Hoi An are iconic landmarks that showcase the cultural and architectural heritage brought by Chinese immigrants. During the 17th and 18th centuries, Hoi An was a bustling port town that attracted traders and settlers from various countries, including China. The Chinese merchants and settlers built these assembly halls as communal spaces for gatherings, religious worship, and maintaining cultural traditions.

Each hall was associated with a particular Chinese ethnic group, such as the Fukian, Cantonese, Hainan, or Teochew communities. Over time, these halls became not only places of worship but also important cultural centers that contributed to Hoi An’s rich heritage.

Architectural beauty of 5 Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An

Fukian Assembly Hall

Location: 46 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An (see map).
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
Ticket Price: Included in the Hoi An Ancient Town ticket (120,000 VND).

The Fukian Assembly Hall, also known as Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, was constructed in the late 17th century by the Fukian Chinese community. It was originally a temple dedicated to Thien Hau (Mazu), the Goddess of the Sea, who is believed to protect sailors and merchants.

The Fukian Assembly Hall stands out with its grandiose and colorful design. The main gate features intricate carvings and vibrant colors, representing traditional Chinese aesthetics.

Fukian Chinese assembly hall of Hoi An — Fukian Assembly Hall

The courtyard is adorned with bonsai trees and a fountain, creating a serene atmosphere.

Fukian Asembly Hall — Bonsai in front of Fujian Assembly Hall

Inside, the main hall showcases elaborate altars dedicated to Thien Hau and other deities. The use of red and gold throughout the structure symbolizes prosperity and good fortune. The roof is decorated with ceramic figurines of dragons and phoenixes, which are believed to ward off evil spirits.

The Fukian Assembly Hall perfectly captures the fusion of Chinese architectural styles and Vietnamese craftsmanship, making it a must-visit landmark in Hoi An.

Cantonese Assembly Hall

Location: 176 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An (see map).
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Ticket Price: Included in the Hoi An Ancient Town ticket (120,000 VND).

The Cantonese Assembly Hall, or Quang Trieu Assembly Hall, was built in 1885 by the Cantonese Chinese community. Initially, it served as a place of worship for Quan Cong, a revered general symbolizing loyalty and justice.

The Cantonese Assembly Hall boasts a striking combination of wood and stone materials. Its entrance gate is a masterpiece of stone carving, featuring mythical creatures such as dragons and lions.

Cantonese Chinese Assembly Hall of Hoi An — Cantonese Assembly Hall

The courtyard is spacious, with a beautifully designed fountain at the center.

The main hall houses impressive wooden sculptures of dragons and scenes from Chinese folklore. The roof is adorned with glazed ceramic tiles and figurines, highlighting traditional Cantonese artistry.

The vibrant colors and detailed craftsmanship make this assembly hall an architectural gem in Hoi An.

Duong Thuong Assembly Hall (Trung Hoa Assembly Hall)

Location: 64 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An (see map).
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Ticket Price: Included in the Hoi An Ancient Town ticket (120,000 VND).

The Duong Thuong Assembly Hall, also known as Trung Hoa Assembly Hall, was established in the late 19th century by the Chinese merchant community. It served as a gathering place for Chinese traders and a venue for cultural and social activities.

The Duong Thuong Assembly Hall features a harmonious blend of Chinese and Vietnamese architectural styles. The building’s facade is adorned with intricate carvings and calligraphy that narrate historical stories.

Duong Thuong Chinese Assembly Hall of Hoi An — In front of the Duong Thuong Assembly Hall

The interior includes richly decorated altars and wooden beams painted with gold lacquer. The assembly hall’s courtyard is lined with traditional Chinese lanterns and bonsai plants, creating a peaceful ambiance.

This hall stands as a testament to the enduring cultural ties between Chinese immigrants and the local Vietnamese community.

Hainan Assembly Hall

Location: 10 Tran Phu Street, Hoi An (see map).
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:30 PM.
Ticket Price: Included in the Hoi An Ancient Town ticket (120,000 VND).

The Hainan Assembly Hall was built in 1851 by the Hainanese Chinese community. It was dedicated to 108 merchants from Hainan who were unjustly killed during a trading expedition.

The Hainan Assembly Hall stands out with its solemn and elegant design. The main gate features impressive stone pillars engraved with floral patterns.

Hainan Chinese assembly hall of Hoi An — Main gate of Hainan Assembly Hall

The courtyard is decorated with stone statues and a memorial plaque honoring the 108 merchants.

Inside, the main hall is adorned with intricately carved wooden altars and statues of deities. The roof is decorated with ceramic dragons and phoenixes, symbolizing power and harmony.

The Hainan Assembly Hall’s tranquil atmosphere and historical significance make it a meaningful destination for visitors.

Trieu Chau Assembly Hall

Location: 157 Nguyen Duy Hieu Street, Hoi An (see map).
Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Ticket Price: Included in the Hoi An Ancient Town ticket (120,000 VND).

The Trieu Chau Assembly Hall, also called Chaozhou Assembly Hall, was constructed in 1845 by the Teochew Chinese community. It was dedicated to General Phuc Ba, a deity believed to calm the seas and protect sailors.

The Trieu Chau Assembly Hall is renowned for its intricate woodwork and ornate designs. The main gate features beautiful wooden carvings depicting Chinese mythical creatures.

The courtyard is lined with potted plants and traditional lanterns, creating a welcoming space.

Trieu Chau Courtyard — Trieu Chau Assembly Hall Courtyard

The main hall showcases exquisite wooden panels and altars adorned with gold leaf. The roof features curved eaves with ceramic figurines, reflecting the traditional Teochew style.

This assembly hall’s attention to detail and artistry make it a highlight of Hoi An’s cultural landscape.

What to do at the Chinese Assembly Halls in Hoi An

Visitors to the Chinese Assembly Halls of Hoi An can explore the rich history and culture embedded in these structures. Admire the intricate architecture, learn about the religious practices and traditions of the Chinese communities, and take part in cultural festivals if visiting during special occasions. The assembly halls also provide excellent opportunities for photography, with their vibrant colors and detailed designs.

Things to do in Chinese Assembly Halls of Hoi An

Don’t miss the chance to witness traditional performances or buy souvenirs that reflect the Chinese heritage of Hoi An. These activities add a unique dimension to your visit and deepen your appreciation for the town’s multicultural history.

Conclusion

Chinese Assembly Halls of Hoi An are not just architectural marvels but also cultural treasures that reflect the town’s historical connections with China. From the Fukian Assembly Hall to the Trieu Chau Assembly Hall, each hall tells a unique story through its design and purpose.

Visiting these landmarks is a journey through time, offering insights into the traditions and values of the Chinese communities in Hoi An. Don’t miss the chance to explore these magnificent structures and immerse yourself in the cultural richness they represent.

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