Cantonese Assembly Hall located in Hoi An is also known as Ong Pagoda or Guangzhao Assembly Hall. It is located in Tran Phu Street, which is very famous for its unique architectural works with great historical value. This currently ranks number one for its most famous feudal structures of this ancient town. The traditional architectural style with yin and yang tiles, and dragon cravings. The amazing stone carving in the front gate will amaze you, figures of legendary phoenix, dragon, unicorn etc. Learn about the ancient Cantonese people and their cultural history. If you love beaches then this place is a must visit for you!
Cantonese Assembly Hall History & Significance
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The story of the Cantonese Assembly Hall History started back in the late 18th century, it was built by overseas Chinese people from Guangdong Guangzhou region. For the longest time people here worshipped the Mazu goddess, who is also known as Thien Hau Thanh Mau, but in 1911 they switched to Guan Yu. The Cantonese Chinese community held their periodic gatherings here in the Cantonese Assembly Hall since the beginning.
During the 15th to 19th century Hoi An was technically the business hub of Vietnam, and it is also closer to China. So as a result many Chinese people used to come here for work, settled here. So you can find more than one Cantonese Assembly Hall in Vietnam, but the oldest one is located in Tran Phu Street, Hoi An.
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Festivals Celebrated At Cantonese Assembly Hall
In this Cantonese Assembly Hall, there are 2 major festivals every year. All the local Chinese people wait for these days, and it’s very crowded during these times. The Hoi An Lantern Festival takes place on the 14th day of each lunar month, roughly once a month in the Gregorian calendar. The Guan Yu Birthday Festival usually takes place in June and celebrates the Chinese dynastic general and god of war.
1. Nguyen Tieu Festival
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This festival celebrates the first full moon of the lunar new year. People come here with lanterns with wishes written on them. This usually happens on the 15th day of the lunar month. People also visit the Japanese Covered Bridge and riverbank to see the lantern shows.
2. Quan Tieu Festival
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This festival is celebrated in honour of Quan Cong or Guan Yu, symbolising the loyalty and righteousness of Chinese people. People host community feasts during this time and they dance in their traditional music, also people demonstrate the ancient Chinese Martial arts. This happens on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month usually but sometimes it changes.
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Unique Architectures Of Hoi An Cantonese Assembly Hall
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The Cantonese Assembly Hall is famous for its Authentic Chinese style architecture, and one interesting fact is most of the parts were created in China and they brought them here by boat, after all the parts arrived they assembled them in Hoi An. There are so many precious artefacts that describe the history of these migrated Cantonese Chinese People. The Three-door entrance gate: When you enter the place you will notice there is a gate made of carved stone figures of legendary creatures of China. After that there is a front yard full of stone carved creatures, and do not miss the dragon fountain.
There are three sections in the main hall, one is the structure of Guan Yu in the middle accompanied by two of his horses, the second section has the God Of Wealth and the third section has God Of Land. They used massive pillars from precious trees to highlight the delicately made statues and compliment its colour. The backyard is located just behind the main hall. They have 2 paths on the side of the main hall. You can enjoy the natural calm breeze, the nice shady walkway, and the dragon fountain all at once.
Timings To Visit Cantonese Assembly Hall
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Cantonese Assembly Hall is a special religious place for the Chinese people who initially settled in Hoi An. Up to now, it ranks at the top of the most famous feudal structures in the ancient town. Therefore, if you are planning to visit Hoi An, don’t miss this one-of-a-kind attraction.
Cantonese Assembly Hall Entrance Fee and Timing
There is no entry fee needed to enter the Cantonese Assembly Hall in Vietnam. The place stays open everyday from 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM.
Best Time to Visit Cantonese Assembly Hall
The best time to Visit cantonese assembly Hall would be during February to April because the weather will be perfect during this time and also the Lunar new year festivals. Try to visit the place early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds.
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Dress Code At Cantonese Assembly Hall
As this is a sacred place, remember to dress modestly, avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless shirts, and your knees and shoulders should be covered. Also, remove hats and caps before entering.
Cantonese Assembly Hall Nearby Attractions
You must spare some time on your trip to visit these famous and must-visit attractions close to Cantonese Assembly Hall, which include:
1. Adventure Land
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The perfect place to visit with your friends, family and kids is the Adventure Land, it is specially designed for the thrill seekers. They also organise various entertainment shows there, like acrobats performance, live music, stunt shows etc. For kids there are so many rides, including merry-go-rounds, bumpy cars. You can also experience activities like rock climbing and zip lining here. So whenever you come to Hoi An this place should be on your bucket list.
Timings: 9 am to 9pm (daily)
Entrance fee: 200,000 VND (adults), 100,000 VND (children), 500,000 VND (Family Pass = 2 Adults + 2 Child)
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2. Harbor Corner
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Harbor Corner is known for its picture perfect view, local street food and lively atmosphere. You will find so many local food shops offering local Vietnamese food and seafood. If you are someone who loves to explore different cuisines then this is the place. This place was an ancient trading port, you can feel Hoi An’s rich maritime heritage here. Also do not miss the boat tours along the Thu Bon river, to experience the town from a unique perspective. The traditional Vietnamese architecture makes this place more special.
Timings: 9 am to 9pm (daily)
Entrance fee: 200,000 VND (adults), 100,000 VND (children), 500,000 VND (Family Pass = 2 Adults + 2 Child)
3. Island of Folk Culture
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The Island of Folk Culture showcases the rich cultural heritage of the region with their arts and craft. You can participate in craft workshops, like lantern making, silk weaving, pottery etc. They also organise events to celebrate the local festivals, holidays and historical anniversaries. You can rent local traditional costumes here and take some pictures with the aesthetic view. Enjoy the traditional performances, and emerge yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Hoi An.
Timings: 8 am to 8pm (daily)
Entrance fee: 100,000 VND per person
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4. Water World
If you enjoy swimming then you will love this place, it is an aquatic-themed amusement park. They have themed zones, each of them offer a unique water activity, one their famous theme is pirates and tropical lagoon. Water World has rides for everyone from kids to adults. Everybody can enjoy their water rides, so it is a perfect place to visit with your family and friends.
Timings: 9 am to 9pm (daily)
Entrance fee: 250,000 VND (adults), 150,000 VND (children), 500,000 VND (Family Pass = 2 Adults + 2 Child)
5. River Safari
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If you want to explore local wildlife and river ecosystems, this is the perfect choice for you. You can encounter wildlife from the boat, make sure you take guided boat tours, they will navigate you through habitats housing a variety of animals. River Safari has so many family-friendly activities, like animal feeding sessions, guided nature walks, and educational workshops. This is a must visit place if you want to experience the beauty of nature.
Timings: 9 am to 6pm (daily)
Entrance fee: 150,000 VND (adults), 75,000 VND (children)
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Interesting Facts About Cantonese Assembly Hall
- It was constructed by Chinese immigrants from Guangdong (Canton) province.
- All the parts of this place came from China by boat and were assembled in Hoi An.
- It was initially planned to serve as a community centre for social gatherings and business meetings of the Cantonese community, later it became a sacred place.
- The famous dragon fountain symbolises power and good fortune in Chinese culture.
- This place is recognised as the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Hoi An Ancient Town.
How To Reach
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There are various ways to reach the Cantonese Assembly Hall in Hoi An city. The address of Cantonese Assembly Hall is 176 Tran Phu, Minh An Ward, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province.
From Da Nang International Airport: Option number one you can take a taxi, it’s approximately 30 km from there which will take about 50 min on average and it will cost around 300,000-4000,000 VND. Option two is to book a private car in advance or take a shuttle from the airport, the shuttle will cost you lower than the taxi. You can also take a bus from Da Nang, take bus no 1, to Hoi An, and it will cost you around 25,000 VND. Once you reach Hoi An you can rent a bike or bicycle to reach the Cantonese Assembly Hall, you can also walk or take a ride in tuktuk there.
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A visit to the Cantonese Assembly Hall Tours will let you experience the blend of history, culture, and architecture of Vietnam and China in Hoi An. You get to admire the beautiful intricate design and craftsmanship of Cantonese people. Emerge yourself in the rich cultural heritage and history of Vietnam and China all at once. Capture the stunning vibrant architecture, enjoy the tranquil environment. Combine your trip to Vietnam with some of the nearby attractions of Hoi An.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Cantonese Assembly Hall
How old is the Assembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation?
The Assembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation was constructed in 1885. As of 2024, it is 139 years old, it is also known as Quang Trieu Assembly Hall.
What is Hoi An known for?
Hoi An is known for being the well-preserved Ancient Town and UNESCO World Heritage Site. The blend of vietnamese, chinese and japanese architecture, historic buildings with colourful lanterns makes it special. Other than that they are famous for their delicious cuisine, scenic riverside setting, cultural festivals and beautiful beaches.
How old is Cantonese culture?
The Cantonese Culture is over 2000 years old, rooted in the Guangdong Province of China.
When was Cantonese founded?
Cantonese was founded during the Tang Dynasty, flourishing for over two millennia.
Who is Worshipped at the Cantonese Assembly Hall?
Quan Cong, who is a prominent figure of Chinese mythology and history is the main deity worshipped at the Cantonese Assembly Hall.
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