Quan Am Pagoda Hoi An: Guide to the Oldest Buddhist Temple & Lady Buddha | Vietnam Purple Travel Guide
(map, reviews)
This is Premium Content! To access it, please download our
Backpack and Snorkel Purple Travel GuideTo enter, you need to have purchased the Hoi An Ancient Town Ticket.
In Vietnamese Mahayana Buddhism, Quan Âm (also spelled Guanyin or Kwan Yin) is the Bodhisattva of Compassion and mercy. She is one of the most venerated deities in Vietnam, believed to protect sailors, guide the suffering, and answer the prayers of those in distress.
Visiting a pagoda dedicated to Quan Âm allows you to witness how Buddhist beliefs are woven into Vietnamese spiritual life, especially in a coastal town like Hoi An, where seafaring communities have long turned to her for protection.
History of Quan Âm Pagoda in Hoi An
The exact construction date of Quan Âm Pagoda is not well-documented, but historical records suggest it was built in the 17th century, during the peak of Hội An’s prominence as an international trading port. Its architectural style, layout, and decorative elements reflect the fusion of Vietnamese and Chinese Buddhist traditions, much like other religious structures in the area.
The pagoda served as a place of worship for local residents, merchants, and visiting seafarers. Over the centuries, it has undergone multiple restorations, preserving both its spiritual atmosphere and historical integrity.
What to See at Quan Âm Pagoda
Main Shrine Hall
The central altar features a statue of Quan Âm.
The altar is adorned with offerings of fruit, incense, flowers, and prayer scrolls from devoted worshippers.
Traditional Architecture
The pagoda showcases curved tiled roofs, wooden beams, and stone dragons, reflecting classical Vietnamese temple design.
Intricate carvings and lanterns decorate the eaves, while lotus motifs symbolize purity and spiritual awakening.
Peaceful Courtyard
A tranquil courtyard with bonsai trees, stone incense burners, and ceramic sculptures offers a quiet space for meditation or reflection—a welcome break from the busier parts of the Ancient Town.
Cultural Significance
During major festivals like Vesak (Buddha’s Birthday) and the Lunar New Year (Tết), the pagoda becomes a lively gathering place for the local community, filled with prayers, offerings, and incense.
Visitor Information
Opening Hours: 8:00am – 5:00pm daily
Recommended Visit Duration: 20-30 minutes
Here at Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides, we promote self-guided walking tours.
But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the Viator tours below.
paid Viator tours
Where do you want to go now?
Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel
Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.
Other popular Purple Travel Guides you may be interested in:
Like this Backpack and Snorkel Purple Travel Guide? Pin these for later:
