Fujian Assembly Hall: A 300-Year-Old Architectural Gem in Hoi An 🌟🏯

#holidayitinerary
Stepping into **Fujian Assembly Hall** (Phuc Kien Assembly Hall) in Hoi An is like traveling back in time. Built in **1697** by Chinese merchants from Fujian Province, this UNESCO-listed site blends spiritual reverence, intricate artistry, and vibrant cultural history. Here’s why this **300-year-old masterpiece** should top your Hoi An itinerary!

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## **Why Visit Fujian Assembly Hall?**
✅ **Stunning Chinese Architecture** – A fusion of ornate carvings, porcelain mosaics, and symbolic "three-section" layout (front hall, main hall, rear hall) inspired by the Chinese character "三" (three) .
✅ **Sacred Spiritual Hub** – Dedicated to **Thien Hau (Mazu)**, the sea goddess who protects sailors, alongside deities of wealth, fertility, and ancestral worship .
✅ **Rich History** – Originally a Buddhist pagoda, transformed in 1759 by Fujian merchants into a community hub and temple .
✅ **Instagram-Worthy Spots** – The iconic **Three-Arched Gate**, dragon-adorned roofs, and hanging incense coils make for breathtaking photos .

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## **Must-See Highlights**
### **1. The Three-Arched Gate (Tam Quan Gate)**
- Symbolizes **"Heaven-Earth-Human" harmony** with three entrances (left for men, right for women, center rarely opened) .
- Decorated with **porcelain tiles**, dragons, phoenixes, and a sun-holding dragon plaque .

### **2. Main Hall (Thien Hau Shrine)**
- Houses the golden statue of **Thien Hau**, flanked by her guardians: **Thien Ly Nhan** (Thousand-Mile Eyes) and **Thuan Phong Nhi** (Wind-Following Ears) .
- Don’t miss the **1875 merchant boat model** with protective "eyes" painted on the hull .

### **3. Rear Hall (Ancestral Worship)**
- Honors **six Ming Dynasty generals** and the **12 Midwives** (believed to aid childbirth) .
- Features a **carp-turning-into-dragon fountain**, symbolizing perseverance .

### **4. Festivals & Rituals**
- **Thien Hau Festival** (March 23 lunar): Processions, incense offerings, and lion dances .
- **God of Wealth Ceremony** (February 2 lunar): Prayers for prosperity .

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## **Visitor Tips**
📍 **Location**: 46 Tran Phu St., Hoi An Ancient Town .
⏰ **Hours**: 7:00 AM–5:00 PM daily .
🎫 **Entry**: Free (but Hoi An Ancient Town ticket required: ~150,000 VND for foreigners) .
👗 **Dress Code**: Cover shoulders/knees; sarongs available for rent .
📸 **Photography**: No flash inside; best light at sunrise or sunset .

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## **Nearby Attractions**
- **Japanese Covered Bridge** (2-min walk) – A 17th-century icon .
- **Tan Ky Old House** – A 200-year-old merchant home .
- **Hoi A Night Market** – Lantern-lit stalls and street food .