Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda was constructed before the 19th century, and after a few times of reconstruction, the structure now owns a unique archaic look amidst modern buildings in Ho Chi Minh. Thousands of people visit this place to pray for good luck in important Vietnamese festivals, and international visitors would come here to admire the beauty of ancient Chinese structure in the metropolitan city.
Where is Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda
Address: 676 Nguyen Trai street, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening time: 8:30 AM – 6 PM
Parking fee: VND 5,000
Outside of Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda
Nghia An Hoi Quan opens for everyone with free entrance. However, there is no specific bus which goes straight to this pagoda, the only convenient transportation for foreign tourists is by taxi.
You can also join a Motorbike Tour in Ho Chi Minh City led by professional local tour guides to learn more about the pagoda’s history.
A Brief History of Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda
The name Nghia An Hoi Quan is related to the origin of the Chinese people in Ho Chi Minh who came from Trieu Chau. They lived in Nghia An, China in the past and then emigrated to Sai Gon for a living. This community-built Nghia An Hoi Quan to create a place for gathering and practicing their religion.
This architecture was built by Chaozhou people
What to See at Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda
The big yard with a lake in front of the pagoda creates a sacred and tranquil vibe, which is also a nice spot to take photos in Ho Chi Minh. Two lion statues were built to guard the main gate. Two parts of the pagoda, which are the front room and main room are the typical design of Chinese pagoda with red as the primary color.
Two lions guarding the gate are the main feature of Chinese religious builidings.
In the middle of the front room, there is a big incensory for people to offer incense. There are also two statues on both sides, which is Phuc Duc and Ma Dau Generals. Inside the main room, a big statue of Quan Cong in the middle with two of his loyal attendants: Chau Khuong and Quan Binh. If you look more carefully, there are two more statues placed on both sides of the Quan Cong statue, which are the God of Wealth and Lady Thien Hau.
The incensory in the front room
Quan Cong altar in the main room
Two of Quan Cong’s loyal attendants: Chau Khuong and Quan Binh
Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda has a lot of small statues and paintings which are mainly made from wood, stone. In addition, lanterns hanging from the ceiling with many traditional pictures describe daily life of old Chinese people makes this pagoda more special.
The best time to visit is on the 13th day of the first lunar month when the most significant festival is held in the pagoda.
See When is The Best Time to Visit Ho Chi Minh
Iconic lanterns of Chinese people
Architecture containing hundreds of years of history
Conclusion on Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda in District 5
More than just a place of worship, Nghia An Hoi Quan Pagoda contains a lot of Chinese’s traditional value from the past. Being conserved through time, it is one of the most famous locations when thinking about Chinese pagodas inside Sai Gon.
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