The Chinese community in Ho Chi Minh City has a rich cultural heritage that has greatly influenced the city’s diversity for over 300 years. When visiting Ho Chi Minh City, particularly the Chinese Street in District 5, you will be fascinated by the bustling streets, distinctive architecture, and authentic cuisine that is unique to this city. Among the numerous attractions, Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda should not be missed, as it stands as one of the oldest and most significant pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City.
Overview of Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda
Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda, located in District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, is a significant place of worship for the Chinese community. Originally constructed in 1839, the pagoda has undergone several restoration efforts and now stands as a remarkable red-colored structure, a distinct characteristic often found in Chinese religious buildings. Initially dedicated to the worship of Kim Hue Thanh Mau, also known as the Goddess Thai Sanh, the pagoda later shifted its focus to the veneration of Thien Hau Thanh Mau, the main deity of worship. Not only Chinese locals but also people from other regions visit Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda to offer prayers for fertility and the blessing of children.
Highlights of Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda
History of Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda
Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda serves as the focal point for immigrants from Fuzhou, Fujian Province, China. The name “Tam Son” refers to the three mountains – Binh Son, Cuu Tien Son, and Viet Vuong Son – in Fuzhou. While historical records indicate that the pagoda was built in 1839, the exact date remains uncertain. A stone stele erected in 1954 to commemorate the restoration of the pagoda does not provide conclusive evidence of its original construction. The front building of the pagoda is believed to have been constructed during the Gia Khanh era (1796) and underwent its first restoration during the Quang Tu era (1887).
Location of Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda
Nestled on Trieu Quang Phuc Street in District 5 of Ho Chi Minh City, Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda finds itself in the midst of a vibrant Chinese community. The pagoda’s surroundings feature an array of religious structures, including churches, pagodas, and temples, each boasting unique characteristics. When visiting Tam Son Hoi Quan, make sure to explore the nearby attractions that complement the beauty of this pagoda.
Architecture and Structure
Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda spans an area of around 1000 square meters and consists of a front yard, front hall, middle hall, and main shrine. Upon entering through the three-door gate, visitors are greeted by the main entrance adorned with a relief sign displaying the Chinese characters for “Tam Son Hoi Quan.” Above the relief, a wooden sign and a pair of wood panels further embellish the entrance, all featuring inscriptions in Chinese.
Moving past the front yard, the front hall captivates with reliefs crafted in 1914 by artisans from Buu Nguyen Pottery Village. These reliefs depict ceramic statues of the Sun and the Moon. The middle hall, situated at a higher elevation than the front hall, leads to the main shrines housing the altar dedicated to the Thien Hau Goddess.
Like other religious structures in the vicinity, Tam Son Hoi Quan showcases horizontal lacquered boards and pairs of wooden panels inscribed with Chinese characters. The intricate carvings on these vermilion lacquered wood panels contribute to the pagoda’s unique artistic charm.
Culture
Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda is dedicated to the worship of goddesses such as Thien Hau Thanh Mau and Kim Hue Thanh Mau. Thien Hau Thanh Mau, revered by the Chinese imperial court, is regarded as a sacred goddess who aids virtuous individuals and fishermen. Kim Hue Thanh Mau, on the other hand, is the goddess who bestows blessings upon couples seeking to conceive and raise children. Consequently, Tam Son Hoi Quan has earned a reputation as a sacred pagoda that attracts many couples facing fertility issues.
Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda is a cultural and spiritual treasure nestled in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. With its breathtaking architecture, rich history, and captivating attractions, the pagoda offers a unique and enriching experience for visitors. Whether you are seeking spiritual enlightenment, cultural exploration, or simply a moment of tranquility, a visit to Tam Son Hoi Quan Pagoda is sure to leave a lasting impression. Immerse yourself in the beauty and serenity of this remarkable site and discover the deep-rooted traditions that have shaped the cultural tapestry of Ho Chi Minh City.
