Ong Temple: Can Tho’s Spiritual and Cultural Gem

Nestled in the vibrant heart of Can Tho City, Ong Temple is a cherished spiritual and cultural landmark that reflects the Mekong Delta’s rich Chinese-Vietnamese heritage. Following the merger of Soc Trang and Hau Giang, Can Tho has become Vietnam’s largest city by landmass, drawing millions to its iconic floating markets, lush landscapes, and historical sites. Located in Ninh Kieu Ward, this 19th-century temple, officially named Quan Công Pagoda, is a sacred site for worshiping Quan Công (Guan Yu), a revered Chinese general symbolizing loyalty and justice. Recognized as a national cultural relic in 1993, Ong Temple’s striking architecture and vibrant rituals make it a must-visit. Aligned with Can Tho’s “Green Delta” sustainability initiatives, exploring the temple is a meaningful way to engage with local culture through eco-friendly travel. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours offer an immersive experience—book your tour via the links throughout this guide!

Legend Travel Group, a premier local tour operator, specializes in sustainable Southeast Asia adventures. Our Can Tho tours feature low-impact transport—bicycles, electric boats, and eco-taxis—guided by local experts who share the Delta’s cultural and historical heritage. Supporting communities in Ninh Kieu and Binh Thuy Wards, we align with Can Tho’s eco-vision. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we ensure a seamless journey. Contact us at sales@legendtravelgroup.com or WhatsApp +84825862222 to book eco-tours and explore Ong Temple responsibly!

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has merged Soc Trang and Hau Giang into Can Tho City, with Ninh Kieu as the central hub. District-level units are now wards or communes, enhancing access to cultural sites like Ong Temple. Supported by sustainable infrastructure—cycling paths, electric ferries, and a VND800 billion flood mitigation project—Can Tho offers seamless exploration of its spiritual landmarks.

Located at 32 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho City, Ong Temple, or Quan Công Pagoda, is a historic Chinese-Vietnamese temple built in 1894 by Chinese immigrants from Guangzhou. Spanning 532 m², it was constructed to honor Quan Công (Guan Yu), a legendary Three Kingdoms general revered for loyalty, righteousness, and bravery. Recognized as a national cultural relic in 1993, the temple features intricate Chinese architecture, vibrant red decor, and giant incense coils, serving as a spiritual and cultural hub for the local Chinese-Vietnamese community. Its proximity to Ninh Kieu Wharf (200 m) makes it a key stop for cultural tours, offering a serene space to reflect on Can Tho’s multicultural heritage.

Key Features:

• Location: 32 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho City.

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; extended during festivals.

• Significance: A national cultural relic and center for Chinese-Vietnamese worship.

• Sustainability: Promotes cultural preservation and eco-friendly tourism.

Tip: Visit during morning rituals for an authentic experience, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

1. Rich Historical and Cultural Significance

Ong Temple is a living testament to Can Tho’s Chinese-Vietnamese heritage, built by Guangzhou immigrants in 1894. Dedicated to Quan Công, it symbolizes values of loyalty and justice, attracting worshipers and visitors seeking spiritual connection. Its status as a national cultural relic underscores its importance in preserving multicultural traditions.

• Tip: Learn about Quan Công’s legend from guides, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

2. Stunning Chinese Architecture

The temple’s vibrant red facade, intricate wood carvings, and ornate ceramic figurines showcase classic Chinese architectural elements. Inside, giant incense coils hang from the ceiling, creating a mystical ambiance, while altars adorned with gold and bronze statues captivate visitors.

• Cost: Free entry; donations ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND) appreciated.

• Tip: Admire the rooftop ceramics, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

3. Vibrant Rituals and Festivals

Experience daily worship rituals with incense offerings and prayers, or visit during major festivals like Quan Công’s Birthday (13th–15th of the sixth lunar month, typically July–August) or Tet (Lunar New Year, January–February), when the temple hosts lively ceremonies, dragon dances, and cultural performances.

• Cost: Free to observe; offerings $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Tip: Attend the sixth lunar month festival for vibrant rituals, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

4. Eco-Friendly Access

Located near Ninh Kieu Wharf, the temple is easily reachable by eco-friendly transport like bicycles or walking, aligning with Can Tho’s sustainable tourism goals. Its central location allows for combined visits with nearby attractions, minimizing environmental impact.

• Tip: Walk from Ninh Kieu Wharf for a green approach, included in our Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85).

5. Cultural Hub for the Community

As a center for Chinese-Vietnamese religious and cultural activities, Ong Temple hosts community events, fostering unity and preserving traditions. Visitors can engage with locals during festivals or observe daily rituals, gaining insights into Can Tho’s multicultural fabric.

• Tip: Respect worshipers’ privacy during prayers, included in our Tra Su Eco-Tour ($60–$80).

Top Activities

• Explore the Architecture: Wander through the temple’s incense-filled interior, admiring wood carvings, bronze statues, and giant incense coils.

• Observe Rituals: Watch daily prayers or join offerings during festivals ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND for incense).

• Photography: Capture the temple’s vibrant decor and serene ambiance, respecting worshipers’ privacy.

• Guided Cultural Tour: Learn about the temple’s history and Quan Công’s legacy with an English-speaking guide ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND).

• Festival Participation: Attend Quan Công’s Birthday or Tet for dragon dances and performances (free entry).

Pricing:

• Entry: Free; donations $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Guided Tour: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND) for 1-hour English guide.

• Combined Tour Package: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND) with other cultural sites.

Tip: Book a guided tour for historical context, included in our Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70).

Nearby Attractions

• Ninh Kieu Wharf (200 m): A scenic riverside hub with night markets ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND for food).

• Can Tho Grand Prison (1 km): A colonial-era historical site ($1 or 25,000 VND entry).

• Binh Thuy Ancient House (6 km): A French-Vietnamese colonial home ($1 or 25,000 VND entry).

• Tip: Combine with the temple for a cultural day, included in our Mekong Delta Immersion Tour ($250–$400).

• Location: 32 Hai Ba Trung Street, Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho City (200 m from Ninh Kieu Wharf).

• Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM; extended during festivals.

• Admission: Free; donations encouraged ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND).

• Accessibility: Paved paths; limited wheelchair access due to steps at the entrance.

• Contact: Legend Travel Group for tours (+84825862222).

Getting to Ong Temple

• Walking: A 5-minute stroll from Ninh Kieu Wharf or central hotels like Vinpearl Hotel Can Tho.

• Bicycle Rental: $1–$3/day (25,000–75,000 VND), 2-minute ride from Ninh Kieu.

• Motorbike Rental: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND), 2-minute ride.

• Taxi/Grab: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) from city center or Can Tho International Airport (10 km).

• Public Bus: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) from Can Tho bus station, 5 minutes.

• Tip: Use eco-friendly bikes or walk, included in our Can Tho City Explorer Tour ($45–$65).

• Dry Season (January–May): Sunny days (25–36°C or 77–96.8°F) are ideal for combining temple visits with outdoor attractions like Cai Rang Floating Market.

• Rainy Season (June–December): Cooler temperatures (22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F) offer a comfortable visit; bring rain gear for brief showers.

• Festivals:

  • Quan Công’s Birthday (13th–15th of sixth lunar month, July–August): Vibrant rituals, dragon dances, and cultural performances.

  • Tet (Late January–Early February, lunar calendar): Festive decorations and community celebrations.

• Daily Timing: Mornings (6:00 AM–9:00 AM) for serene rituals and fewer crowds; evenings during festivals for lively events.

• Tip: Visit during the sixth lunar month for festival energy; check lunar calendar dates and AccuWeather for updates.

• Book Tours Early: Reserve eco-tours via Legend Travel Group (sales@legendtravelgroup.com, WhatsApp +84825862222) 2–3 weeks in advance, especially for festival periods.

• Dress Code: Wear modest clothing (covered shoulders, long pants) out of respect for the sacred site; remove shoes before entering.

• Sustainability: Support cultural preservation by avoiding litter and choosing eco-friendly transport like bicycles.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me) for Ninh Kieu Ward.

• Safety: Secure valuables; respect worshipers’ privacy during rituals.

• Cultural Respect: Maintain silence during prayers; say “cảm ơn” (thank you) to guides or vendors.

• Health: Carry bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) and hand sanitizer for hygiene.

Our sustainable tours pair Ong Temple with Can Tho’s top attractions:

• Can Tho City Explorer ($45–$65/person): Ong Temple, Ninh Kieu Wharf, Tay Do Night Market. Includes bike rentals, snacks, and guide.

• Can Tho Heritage Tour ($50–$70/person): Ong Temple, Binh Thuy Ancient House, Can Tho Grand Prison. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, and guide.

• Can Tho Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Ong Temple, Cai Rang Floating Market, local cuisine tasting. Includes eco-transfers, meals, and guide.

• Mekong Sunrise Tour ($55–$75/person): Cai Rang Floating Market, Ong Temple, canal cruise. Includes electric boat and breakfast.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($250–$400/person, 2–3 days): Ong Temple, floating markets, homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes transfers, meals, and activities.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and entrance fees. Enjoy 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book now via links around this page!

Ong Temple in Can Tho City is a spiritual and cultural treasure, offering a profound connection to the Mekong Delta’s Chinese-Vietnamese heritage through its stunning architecture and vibrant rituals. As a national cultural relic, it’s a must-visit for travelers seeking to explore Can Tho’s multicultural past. Legend Travel Group’s Can Tho Tours combine Ong Temple with Can Tho’s floating markets, historical sites, and culinary delights, ensuring a sustainable Can Tho Travel experience. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Can Tho adventure today!
Ready to experience Can Tho’s spiritual heart? Reserve your eco-tour with Legend Travel Group and immerse yourself in Ong Temple’s timeless allure!

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.