Ong Pagoda: Hoi An’s Sacred Quan Cong Temple in Da Nang City – A Cultural Guide

Hoi An Ancient Town, now a ward of Da Nang City following the merger of Quang Nam Province, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its vibrant history and architectural splendor. Located at 24 Tran Phu Street in Minh An Ward, Ong Pagoda, also known as Quan Cong Temple or Chua Ong, is a spiritual and cultural landmark, drawing thousands of Hoi An’s 4.5 million annual visitors. Built in 1653 by Vietnamese and Minh Huong (Chinese settlers), this temple honors Quan Cong (Guan Yu), a revered Chinese general embodying loyalty, righteousness, wisdom, and courage. With its striking Chinese architecture, intricate carvings, and historical significance as a trading hub’s religious center, Ong Pagoda offers a profound glimpse into Hoi An’s 17th-century trading port legacy. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to immerse you in this sacred site, bookable via links throughout this guide. Step into Hoi An’s spiritual heart—reserve your tour now!

Legend Travel Group delivers authentic Southeast Asia experiences, prioritizing sustainability and cultural immersion. Our Hoi An tours feature low-impact transport like bicycles and walking routes, guided by local experts who share the temple’s history and spiritual significance. We support Minh An’s community and align with Da Nang City’s “Heritage for Future” initiative to preserve sites like Ong Pagoda. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless cultural journey. Explore Ong Pagoda responsibly with our curated tours—book via the links on this page!

Ong Pagoda, officially named Quan Cong Temple, was constructed in 1653 during Hoi An’s peak as a Southeast Asian trading port, a period when Chinese, Japanese, and European merchants thrived. Built by Vietnamese and Minh Huong settlers, the temple venerates Quan Cong, a Three Kingdoms-era general (160–220 CE) deified as a symbol of loyalty, righteousness, faith, wisdom, benevolence, and courage—virtues cherished by Hoi An’s trading community. Known as Trung Han Cung, the temple served as a religious and social hub where merchants prayed for prosperous trade and safe voyages, reflecting Hoi An’s multicultural fabric. Recognized as a National Historic and Cultural Heritage Site in 1991, it remains a vibrant spiritual center, hosting festivals and daily worship.

Spanning approximately 500 square meters, the temple’s Chinese architectural style is evident in its vibrant red-and-gold palette, yin-yang tiled roof, and symmetrical layout shaped like the Chinese character “口” (mouth). Key features include:

• Three-Entrance Gate: Adorned with dragon, phoenix, and unicorn motifs, symbolizing power and prosperity, topped with green-glazed tiles.

• Courtyard: Features a pond with a dragon fountain, representing balance and abundance.

• Main Hall: Houses a 2-meter bronze Quan Cong statue, flanked by his horse, attendants (Chau Thuong and Quan Binh), and altars for the God of Wealth and local deities. Intricate wood carvings and porcelain reliefs depict mythical scenes.

• Backyard: A serene garden with additional altars and incense burners, used for community gatherings.

Despite six renovations (1753, 1783, 1827, 1864, 1904, 1966), the temple retains its original structure, with minor flood-resistant adaptations. Its preservation, supported by the Hoi An Center for Cultural Heritage Management, ensures its UNESCO status since 1999. Open daily from 6:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Ong Pagoda is a must-visit for its spiritual ambiance and architectural grandeur.

Quang Nam Province has merged into Da Nang City, making Hoi An a ward under Da Nang City’s administration. This restructuring eliminates the district level, but Ong Pagoda’s UNESCO status within Hoi An Ancient Town remains intact. Da Nang City aims to promote Hoi An as a “Global Cultural Ward,” enhancing sustainable tourism with improved pedestrian pathways and eco-friendly infrastructure.

1. Admire Chinese Architecture

Marvel at the temple’s 17th-century Chinese design, with its ornate three-entrance gate, dragon fountain, and vibrant main hall featuring a bronze Quan Cong statue and intricate wood carvings. The yin-yang tiled roof and porcelain reliefs showcase Hoi An’s multicultural artistry.

• Cost: Included in Hoi An Ancient Town ticket ($6/adult, 150,000 VND; covers 5 of 21 attractions); $4 (100,000 VND) for Vietnamese visitors; free for children under 16.

• Highlights: “A stunning cultural masterpiece” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Visit early morning (6:00–8:00 AM) for fewer crowds; allow 15–20 minutes to explore. Included in our Hoi An Heritage Tour ($70–$90).

2. Explore Historical Artifacts

Discover preserved relics, including a 2-meter bronze censer, lacquered boards, and porcelain statues, reflecting Hoi An’s trading wealth and Minh Huong devotion. Informational plaques detail Quan Cong’s legend and the temple’s history.

• Cost: Included in Ancient Town ticket ($6).

• Highlights: “A treasure trove of history” (Vietnam Tourism).

• Tip: No photography in the main shrine; use QR codes for digital guides. Included in our Hoi An Cultural Tour ($75–$95).

3. Attend the Quan Cong Festival

Join the vibrant Quan Cong Festival on the 24th day of the sixth lunar month (typically July–August), featuring incense offerings, traditional music, and prayers for prosperity, honoring Quan Cong’s virtues.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND) appreciated.

• Highlights: “A spiritual celebration” (Tripadvisor, 4.7/5 stars).

• Tip: Book tours 3–4 weeks ahead for festival dates; dress modestly. Included in our Hoi An Festival Tour ($65–$85).

4. Pray for Prosperity

Offer incense at Quan Cong’s altar to pray for success in business, health, or personal endeavors, a tradition rooted in Hoi An’s trading past.

• Cost: Incense $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND); included in some tours.

• Highlights: “A serene spiritual moment” (Tripadvisor, 4.6/5 stars).

• Tip: Follow local customs (light incense, bow three times); maintain silence. Included in our Hoi An Spiritual Tour ($60–$80).

5. Shop for Nearby Handicrafts

Browse silk clothing, lanterns, and pottery at shops along Tran Phu Street, supporting local artisans and complementing your temple visit.

• Cost: Items $2–$20 (50,000–500,000 VND).

• Highlights: “Authentic Hoi An crafts” (Tripadvisor, 4.5/5 stars).

• Tip: Bargain politely; prioritize eco-friendly vendors like Reaching Out. Included in our Hoi An Artisan Tour ($70–$90).

Ong Pagoda’s preservation is critical to Hoi An’s UNESCO heritage, supported by Da Nang City’s sustainable tourism initiatives. Recent updates include:

• Flood Mitigation: In 2023, the temple’s foundation was reinforced to combat annual flooding, with drainage systems added per UNESCO’s Master Plan.

• Eco-Friendly Practices: Tours use bicycles or walking to reduce emissions; nearby vendors adopt biodegradable packaging to minimize waste.

• Community Engagement: Local Minh Huong descendants and the Hoi An Center for Cultural Heritage Management maintain the temple, with festivals fostering community pride.

Despite minor wear from flooding, the temple’s structure remains intact, with ongoing conservation ensuring its longevity. Legend Travel Group’s tours align with these efforts, partnering with local guides and eco-conscious vendors to support Minh An’s community and promote sustainable tourism.

• Entrance Fee: Included in Hoi An Ancient Town ticket ($6/adult, 150,000 VND; $4, 100,000 VND for Vietnamese visitors; free for children under 16). Covers 5 attractions.

• Activities: Guided tours $15–$40 (375,000–1,000,000 VND); private tours $80–$120 (2,000,000–3,000,000 VND); incense $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND); festival donations $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND); souvenirs $2–$20 (50,000–500,000 VND); tips $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Dining: Nearby street food (e.g., cao lầu, mi quang) $1–$6 (25,000–150,000 VND); restaurant meals $3–$15 (75,000–375,000 VND); drinks $0.25–$4 (6,250–100,000 VND).

• Transport:

  • From Hanoi (750 km, round-trip): Flight $70–$140; train $35–$60 + $6–$12 taxi; bus $20–$35 + $6–$12 taxi; private car $160–$230.

  • From Ho Chi Minh City (900 km, round-trip): Flight $80–$160; bus $30–$45 + $6–$12 taxi; private car $200–$280.

  • From Da Nang (30 km, ~30–45 minutes, round-trip): Taxi/Grab $14–$22; shuttle bus $6–$10; bus #1 $0.30–$1.20 (8,000–30,000 VND); motorbike $6–$10/day + $4 fuel.

  • Within Hoi An (1–2 km): Bicycle $2–$4/day; motorbike $6–$10/day (restricted in Old Town pedestrian zones 9:00 AM–11:00 AM, 3:00 PM–10:00 PM); taxi/Grab $3–$6/trip; cyclo $2–$5/trip (50,000–125,000 VND); walking free.

• Accommodation: Hostels $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND); homestays $15–$50/night (375,000–1,250,000 VND); hotels $70–$200/night (1,750,000–5,000,000 VND); resorts (e.g., Vinpearl Resort & Golf Nam Hoi An) $180–$450/night (4,500,000–11,250,000 VND).

• Total Daily Cost: $20–$120 (budget: $20–$50; mid-range: $50–$80; luxury: $80–$120).

• Tip: Use VND; ATMs in Hoi An Ward (Vietcombank, BIDV). Book tours for eco-transfers to reduce carbon footprint. Rainy season (September–January) offers 10–20% discounts.

From Hanoi (750 km, ~1–1.5 hours by flight, 14–16 hours by train/bus)

• Flight: $35–$70 one-way to Da Nang International Airport; 45-minute taxi ($14–$22) to Hoi An.

• Train: $17–$30 one-way to Da Nang Station; 30-minute taxi ($12–$18).

• Bus: $10–$17 one-way to Da Nang; 30-minute taxi ($12–$18).

• Private Car: $80–$115 one-way.

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($100–$200) include eco-transfers.

From Ho Chi Minh City (900 km, ~1.5 hours by flight, 18–20 hours by bus)

• Flight: $40–$80 one-way to Da Nang; 45-minute taxi ($14–$22).

• Bus: $15–$22 one-way to Da Nang; 30-minute taxi ($12–$18).

• Private Car: $100–$140 one-way.

• Guided Tour: Our tours ($120–$220) include transfers.

From Da Nang (30 km, ~30–45 minutes)

• Bus #1: $0.30–$1.20 (8,000–30,000 VND); every 30 minutes (5:30 AM–5:00 PM) to Hoi An Bus Station; 10-minute walk to temple.

• Taxi/Grab: $7–$11 one-way.

• Shuttle Bus: $3–$5 one-way; hourly (6:00 AM–9:00 PM).

• Motorbike: $6–$10/day + $2 fuel; restricted in Old Town pedestrian zones.

• Guided Tour: Our half-day tours ($55–$75) include transfers.

Within Hoi An (1–2 km, ~5–10 minutes)

• Bicycle: $2–$4/day; ideal for Tran Phu Street.

• Cyclo: $2–$5/trip (50,000–125,000 VND); cultural experience.

• Taxi/Grab: $3–$6/trip.

• Walking: Free; 5-minute walk from Japanese Covered Bridge (300 m).

Route Tip: Base yourself in Hoi An Ward; Ong Pagoda is walkable from Hoi An Market or Tan Ky House. Use offline maps (e.g., Maps.me). Parking: $0.25–$0.60/motorbike (6,250–15,000 VND) outside pedestrian zones.

• Spring (February–April): Mild (18–28°C or 64.4–82.4°F), low rainfall (25–50 mm). Ideal for walking tours and photography; book 3–4 weeks ahead for Nguyen Tieu Festival (February).

• Summer (May–August): Warm (25–38°C or 77–100.4°F), occasional showers (90–120 mm). Great for early visits (6:00–8:00 AM) to avoid heat; Quan Cong Festival (July–August) adds vibrancy. Book early for peak season.

• Rainy Season (September–January): Cooler (19–29°C or 66.2–84.2°F), heavy rain (150–500 mm, peaking October–November). Indoor exploration ideal; 10–20% discounts. Check flood forecasts for November, as Tran Phu Street may flood.

Tip: February–April offers the best weather for Tran Phu Street exploration; festival periods enhance spiritual immersion.

• Plan Ahead: Book tours 2–3 weeks in advance via Legend Travel Group or Klook (+84 938 987 654). Confirm hours (6:00 AM–5:00 PM). Maximum capacity is 50–60 visitors, so avoid peak hours (10:00 AM–2:00 PM).

• Dress Code: Modest attire (covered shoulders, knees, no shorts/skirts above knee) to respect the sacred space; comfortable shoes for walking Tran Phu Street.

• Pack Smart: Reusable water bottle, small cash (VND) for tickets/incense, camera (no photos in main shrine), mosquito repellent for courtyard.

• Budget Wisely: Expect $20–$120/day; carry VND; ATMs in Hoi An Ward. Verify prices to avoid overcharges.

• Stay Safe: Watch for uneven courtyard stones; secure valuables in crowded areas; avoid touching altars or relics. Check flood risks in November.

• Sustainability: Use bicycles or walk to reduce emissions; buy from local artisans; avoid plastic waste with reusable bags. Our tours promote eco-conscious travel.

• Cultural Respect: Maintain silence in the main hall; light incense respectfully; tip guides ($1–$2). Ask permission before photographing festivals.

• Navigation: Allow 15–20 minutes for the temple; combine with Cantonese Assembly Hall (200 m) or Hoi An Market (500 m) for a half-day itinerary. Offline maps essential.

Our sustainable tours immerse you in Hoi An’s cultural heritage, with Ong Pagoda as a highlight:

• Hoi An Heritage Tour ($70–$90/person): Ong Pagoda, Japanese Covered Bridge, Tan Ky House, mi quang tasting. Includes eco-transfers and lunch.

• Hoi An Cultural Tour ($75–$95/person): Ong Pagoda, Phuc Kien Assembly Hall, Hoi An Folklore Museum, lantern-making workshop. Includes eco-transfers and snacks.

• Hoi An Festival Tour ($65–$85/person): Ong Pagoda during Quan Cong Festival, night market, river cruise. Includes eco-transfers.

• Hoi An Spiritual Tour ($60–$80/person): Ong Pagoda, Minh Huong Pagoda, incense offering, cao lầu dining. Includes eco-transfers and tastings.

• Hoi An Cultural Explorer ($350–$550/person, 3–4 days): Ong Pagoda, My Son Sanctuary, homestays ($15–$50/night), all Hoi An highlights. Includes all activities, meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, entrance fees, and meals/snacks. Group discounts (10% off for 10+ travelers) and seasonal promotions available. Book now via links around this page!

Ong Pagoda, also known as Quan Cong Temple, is a spiritual and architectural cornerstone of Hoi An Ancient Town in Da Nang City, captivating with its 1653 Chinese design and rich trading history. Honoring Quan Cong’s virtues, this UNESCO-recognized site offers a profound connection to Hoi An’s 17th-century multicultural legacy, preserved through centuries of devotion and recent flood-resistant updates. From its dragon-carved gate to vibrant festivals, Ong Pagoda is a must-visit for cultural explorers. Legend Travel Group’s Da Nang Tours guide you through this sacred landmark, ensuring a sustainable Da Nang Travel experience that supports local preservation and eco-conscious practices. Don’t miss Ong Pagoda’s timeless allure—browse our featured tours and book your Hoi An adventure today!
Ready to uncover Ong Pagoda’s spiritual treasures? Reserve your tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Vietnam’s cultural heritage!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group