Fujian Assembly Hall (Hoi Quan Phuc Kien) – A Spiritual Hub
The Fujian Assembly Hall, known in Vietnamese as Hoi Quan Phuc Kien (Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien), is the most magnificent and renowned of the five Chinese assembly halls located in the UNESCO-listed Hoi An Ancient Town, now a vital heritage sector of the expanded Da Nang region. Originally built in the late 17th century, it was established by Chinese merchants and immigrants from the Fujian province of China as a social, religious, and ancestral meeting place.
Today, it stands as a brilliant showcase of Chinese architectural grandeur and a revered spiritual site.
I. History and Religious Significance
Origin and Purpose: The hall was initially a small thatched-roof pagoda built in the 1690s. In the mid-18th century, it was fully transformed into the grand assembly hall we see today, serving the largest Chinese community in Hoi An.
The Sea Goddess (Mazu): The main shrine is dedicated to Thien Hau Thanh Mau (Mazu in Chinese), the Goddess of the Sea. She is profoundly important to the Fujianese, who were primarily seafarers and traders, as she is believed to protect sailors from storms and ensure safe voyages. This spiritual focus reflects Hoi An’s history as a major international port.
Fertility Shrine: Behind the main altar, the assembly hall houses shrines dedicated to the God of Prosperity and the Twelve Midwife Goddesses (Thap Nhi Ba Mu). This makes the hall a popular pilgrimage site for couples praying for children and healthy births.
II. Architectural Highlights
The assembly hall is a vast, interconnected complex that runs from Tran Phu Street to Phan Chu Trinh Street, structured in a typical “Three Entrance Gate, Courtyard, Hall” layout.
Tam Quan Gate: The stunning, ornate main gate (Tam Quan) is famous for its vibrant colors, ceramic mosaics, and roof adorned with dragons, phoenixes, and other mythological creatures, embodying the exuberance of South Chinese temple design.
Courtyard and Gardens: A large, open courtyard features beautiful bonsai trees, dragon statues, and a prominent “Fish Transforming into Dragon” sculpture, symbolizing success and prosperity. Look for the massive, spiraling incense coils hanging from the ceiling, which burn for weeks and are sponsored by local families making wishes.
Elaborate Carvings: The interior is richly decorated with detailed wood carvings, vibrant murals, and lacquered panels that depict Chinese mythological stories and virtuous figures.
III. Essential Visitor Information
The Fujian Assembly Hall is one of the top attractions on the official heritage itinerary in Hoi An.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location (Address) | 46 Tran Phu Street, Minh An Ward, Hoi An, Da Nang, Vietnam. |
| Opening Hours | Typically 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). |
| Entrance Fee | Entry is included in the mandatory Hoi An Ancient Town Ticket (approx. 120,000 – 150,000 VND for international visitors), which grants access to 5 attractions. |
| Dress Code | As an active place of worship, visitors are requested to dress modestly (no short shorts or revealing tops) and maintain a respectful, quiet demeanor. |
| Best Time to Visit | Early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak crowds and the intense midday heat. |
