Pick up insights into the history of Chineseimmigrants in Vietnam when you tour one of their stunning ancient assemblyhalls.
Ventureinside the Assembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation, once animportant centre for Chinese immigrants in the city. Admire the oriental artand architecture and learn about some fascinating local history.
Hoi An was a major centre of tradefrom the 15th to the 19th century and where Chinese immigrants first settled in southern Vietnam. They built assembly halls in the city, places where they couldsocialize and do business. Each hall was built for a different ethnic group andfive remain to this day.
TheAssembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation was constructed in the late18th century by Chinese immigrants from China’s Guangdong and Cantoneseregions. Different parts of the building were made separatelyin China and then brought to Hoi An to be assembled.
Your architecturalappreciation starts as you enter the assembly hall via the stone three-entrancegate. Stop to look up at the figures of dragons and lions decorating the gate’stiled roof and study the carvings on the supporting pillars.
Walkthrough the attractive main courtyard and up to the opulent fountain. Eruptingfrom the middle of this magnificent water feature is a statue of a dragonentwined with a carp. View paintings and other works of art decoratingcourtyard walls.
Insidethe main building, see the altar dedicated to Quan Cong, a respected generalfrom Asia’s Three Kings Period. He is worshipped as a symbol of loyalty,integrity and justice. Look for other relics from the hall’s Cantonesecreators, including statues, terracotta seats and a large bronze censer usedfor burning incense during religious ceremonies.
TheAssembly Hall of the Cantonese Chinese Congregation is located in the heart of HoiAn’s ancient old town. The best times to visit the hall are mid-morning and mid-afternoon.After your tour, visit thecity’s four other assembly halls, which are all within a short walkingdistance.
