Imagine a street crowded with vendors calling out to you to buy exotic food, the air heavy with the scent of roasting meats and spices. You are walking along Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street. It’s a vibrant, bustling street unlike anything you’ve ever seen. But wait, what’s this ornate entrance beyond the bustling marketplace? Here, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of District 5, stands the Hoi Quan Nhi Phu, also known as Ong Bon Pagoda.
This is the oldest Chinese pagoda in Saigon! It was built in 1730 by Chinese immigrants who came to Vietnam from the cities of Xuanzhou and Zhangzhou. They built this assembly hall, where they could come together and worship, as well as preserve their culture and help each other. The pagoda is dedicated to Ong Bon, a god who protects the land and people.
The pagoda is a unique blend of Chinese and Vietnamese architecture. It has the classic Chinese “kou” shape, which is formed by four halls arranged in a hollow square, built with beautiful red and yellow tiles. Look closely at the roof! See the ceramic mosaic ornaments of dragons, clouds, and waves? Those are elements of the Fujian style of decoration, reflecting the origin of these Chinese immigrants. You’ll also notice the intricate patterns carved on the doors and window frames – these are reminders of the skilled craftsmanship of the pagoda’s builders.
The front yard is spacious and provides a calm, serene atmosphere. It’s a place where locals often gather to spend some time and escape the city noise. The back yard contains a beautiful garden with small trees, plants, and flowers, and a serene, beautiful lake.
You should not miss the back hall, the main hall of the pagoda. It’s known as the must-see part of Ong Bon Pagoda. It’s dedicated to Ong Bon, the God who protects the soil and people, along with other deities. The statue of Ong Bon stands 1.5 meters tall and depicts an old man with a long white beard. He’s dressed in colorful embroidered clothing, which symbolizes his importance within the community. Look for the magnificent altar dedicated to Ong Bon. It’s a masterpiece of intricate carvings, adorned with beautiful birds, leaves, and flowers.
Take a moment to reflect on the history and meaning of Hoi Quan Nhi Phu. It’s more than just a beautiful place, it stands as a symbol of the cultural diversity and the strength of the Chinese community in Saigon. And even as the city around it changes, the pagoda remains a place of peace and worship, a testament to the power of cultural preservation.