VietNamNet Bridge - In Hoi An, the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall is considered the most beautiful hall in the town. 

Phuc Kien (Fujian) Assembly Hall was built around 1690 and functions as a traditional assembly hall for the Chinese ethnic group from Fujian, China in Hoi An. Later it was transformed into a temple dedicated to their deity named Thien Hau – the goddess of sea who protects sailors from danger. 

The Chinese in Hoi An built that temple to worship the statue of the goddess which was found on Hoi An Beach in 1697. Phuc Kien Assembly Hall is located in 46 Tran Phu Street.

Phuc Kien Assembly Hall bears all the fundamental features in structure of a Chinese assembly hall. 

Its ornate gate and colorful courtyard with fountains are very photogenic. The main hall is the biggest room, with a shrine and many delicately carved dragons. 

Behind the central altar are the God of Prosperity and the figures of the goddess of fertility, three fairies and 12 midwives (who are said to teach newborns such skills as sucking, smiling, etc.). Hence, childless couples often visit this temple to pray for children.

The temple worships Goddess Thien Hau but also focuses on the majestic beauty and the power of other influential gods and goddesses in the Fujian people’s belief, reflected in several murals, lacquer boards and paintings. 

Throughout the temple, there are many statues, bronze drums, bronze bells and horizontal lacquer boards engraved with Chinese characters. The combination and arrangement of every element in the hall implies the Chinese philosophy of happiness. 

In addition to its architecture, its many events and activities to celebrate Chinese festivals make the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall a wonderful destination for visitors from both inside and outside of Vietnam.

Photo: Kienthuc

Compiled by Pha Le