Phuc Kien Assembly Hall - Discover the Cultural Treasure in Hoi An

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall - Discover the Cultural Treasure in Hoi An

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall is one of the historical sites featuring Chinese-style architecture, and it is also a site for the three communities of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese people living together. This destination is a must-visit when coming to Hoi An as it carries valuable historical and cultural significance. In the following article, let's join NVK Travel to admire the ancient beauty and explore the interesting things at this assembly hall.

A brief introduction to Phuc Kien Assembly Hall

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall is located at 46 Tran Phu, Cam Chau, Hoi An, Quang Nam, Vietnam. The entrance fee for visiting is from 07:00 to 17:00 daily: 80,000 VND/person (for Vietnamese visitors) and 150,000 VND/person.

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall Hoi An

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall Hoi An

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The assembly hall was built in 1690 by people from Phuc Kien (China) who moved to Hoi An to live and establish it. Originally, this place was entirely made of wood, but in 1757 it was rebuilt with bricks and tiles as it is today.

The assembly hall worships Lady Thien Hau and the deities who protect rivers, water, wealth, children, and ancestors. It is also a meeting place for mutual support among the compatriots from Phuc Kien, who were the earliest and most numerous settlers in Hoi An.

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall is most crowded during festivals and full moon days. On the day of Nguyen Tieu (15th day of the first lunar month), Via Thien Hau (23rd day of the 3rd lunar month),... every year, many festive activities take place here. Therefore, visitors can choose a suitable day to come to the assembly hall and enjoy these unique festive activities.

The unique architecture of Phuc Kien Assembly Hall

The architecture of the assembly hall is magnificent and spacious, strongly reflecting the traditional architectural style of the Chinese. The most distinctive feature is the harmonious combination of classical Eastern and Western architecture.

Main gate

The assembly hall was built in the 16th century

The assembly hall was built in the 16th century

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The main gate of the assembly hall is a unique architectural structure with a curved roof, intricately decorated with dragon and phoenix motifs, reflecting traditional culture. This is the place where visitors can take souvenir photos when visiting.

Main corridor

The assembly hall was recognized as a national cultural - historical monument on February 17, 1990

The assembly hall was recognized as a national cultural-historical monument on February 17, 1990.

On both sides of the main corridor are high walls, further decorated with exquisite reliefs depicting historical stories about the land of Phuc Kien. These reliefs are not merely for decoration; they also carry special cultural significance.

Main courtyard

Outside the main courtyard of Phuc Kien Assembly Hall

Outside the main courtyard of Phuc Kien Assembly Hall

The main courtyard of the assembly hall is paved with granite, with additional greenery arranged to create a spacious and relaxing atmosphere. This is a place where you can rest, relax, and admire the entire architecture of the assembly hall.

The church

The incense offering area inside

The incense offering area inside

The church is where the protective deities are worshipped, decorated with intricately carved statues and paintings. This is also where the Chinese community comes to pray and maintain their religious traditions.

How to get to the assembly hall

The route to the assembly hall is very convenient

The route to the assembly hall is very convenient

The assembly hall is located right in the center of Hoi An ancient town, making it easy for visitors to find their way here. From the pedestrian street, you can walk straight and see the large assembly hall, or you can ask local residents nearby; they will guide you to the assembly hall.

Visiting Phuc Kien Assembly Hall in Hoi An

When visiting the assembly hall, tourists will admire the ancient beauty and explore the culture, history, and religion of the Chinese people of Phuc Kien.

Entrance

The main gate of the assembly hall

The main gate of the assembly hall

The architecture of the assembly hall, deeply imbued with Chinese characteristics, has impressed many young visitors when they come to Hoi An. The entrance area bears the marks of time, with the tiled roof adorned with majestic, swirling dragons, creating an unforgettable impression from the very first glance.

Inside the assembly hall

The grounds of the assembly hall are covered with greenery

The courtyard of the assembly hall is covered with greenery

Stepping inside, visitors will feel the solemnity that the assembly hall brings. The spacious courtyard is decorated with many potted plants and a rock garden, highlighted by the unique image of a carp transforming into a dragon.

In the front hall, there is a stone table used for meetings and discussions of Phuc Kien merchants. Visitors can also light large incense sticks to wish for health and wealth for their families and loved ones. After the incense burns out, the people in the assembly hall will take away the pieces of wish paper you have written, making the wishes sacred.

Inside the main hall is where Lady Thien Hau and the deities protecting rivers, wealth, children, and ancestors are worshipped. On the right side of the main hall, there is also a model of a ship belonging to merchants who encountered misfortune. This ship was used for sea voyages and dates back to 1875, featuring many distinctive details.

Some notes when exploring the assembly hall

The assembly hall is usually very crowded on holidays

The assembly hall is usually very crowded on holidays

When visiting the assembly hall in Hoi An, you should pay attention to some things as follows:

  • The assembly hall is a sacred place, so you need to wear respectful clothing and avoid speaking too loudly to show respect and reverence to the deities here.
  • The assembly hall is a place for visiting and offering incense, so you should not bring food inside that could affect its sanctity.
  • During holidays, there are usually many tourists, so you need to be vigilant to protect your belongings.
  • The assembly hall sells large incense sticks and offerings, so you do not need to buy items from outside.

Conclusion

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall is a spiritual place revered by many people and is considered sacred. Additionally, it leaves a strong impression with its distinctive Chinese architecture. If you and your family are planning to visit here visit Hoi An, please contact NVK Travel for advice on all-inclusive tour packages with preferential prices, making your trip more convenient and easier.