Beautiful scenery
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Chuc Thanh Pagoda

4.6
·365 reviews·Thành Phố Hội An, Vietnam

Hoi An's oldest pagoda, established in 1454, offering a serene spiritual escape with ancient artifacts and a glimpse into Buddhist history.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Beautiful scenery

Chuc Thanh Pagoda

Best Time

Early mornings

Peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Hoi An's oldest pagoda, established in 1454, offering a serene spiritual escape with ancient artifacts and a glimpse into Buddhist history.

4.6
(365 reviews)

"A peaceful place with good energies, perfect for a walk and to get into Vietnamese culture."

Vertical photo
TIP

Respectful Attire

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active pagoda. :pray:

Free Entry

Enjoy the spiritual and historical site without any admission fee. :moneywithwings:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ancient Buddhist History

Ancient Buddhist History

Main Pagoda Hall

Discover Hoi An's oldest pagoda, built in 1454, with a rich history and spiritual ambiance.

Serene Monastic Life

Serene Monastic Life

Pagoda Grounds

Witness monks in meditation and experience the peaceful energy of this active spiritual site.

Historical Artifacts

Historical Artifacts

Pagoda Museum/Exhibits

See a 200-year-old stone gong and a unique fish-shaped wooden gong, remnants of its long past.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Tranquility

Chuc Thanh Pagoda offers a peaceful escape from Hoi An's bustle. Visit early to experience its serene atmosphere and avoid crowds. Remember to dress respectfully, covering shoulders and knees, as it's an active place of worship.

A Glimpse into History

As Hoi An's oldest pagoda, Chuc Thanh offers a unique historical and spiritual experience. Explore ancient artifacts and learn about the deep roots of Buddhism in the region. Entry is free, making it an accessible cultural immersion.

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Golden hour light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

After a month in Hoi An, these are the tips I tell my friends

Respectful Attire

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active pagoda. :pray:

Free Entry

Enjoy the spiritual and historical site without any admission fee. :moneywithwings:

reddit.com

Things to do in Hoi An NOT tailor or restaurants or shopping?

reddit.com

I’m in Hoi An for the next three days - need suggestions

Quiet Exploration

Embrace the peaceful vibe; it's a great spot for quiet reflection. :personwalking: :thoughtballoon:

Combine with Bike Tour

Consider a bicycle tour for an easy and informative visit. :bicycle: Reddit

reddit.com

Hoi An Old Town seemed like hell…THANK YOU REDDITORS

Tips

from all over the internet

Respectful Attire

Cover shoulders and knees when visiting this active pagoda. :pray:

Free Entry

Enjoy the spiritual and historical site without any admission fee. :moneywithwings:

Quiet Exploration

Embrace the peaceful vibe; it's a great spot for quiet reflection. :personwalking: :thoughtballoon:

Combine with Bike Tour

Consider a bicycle tour for an easy and informative visit. :bicycle: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(365 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Chuc Thanh Pagoda is praised as Hoi An's oldest and most spiritual site, offering a peaceful escape with historical artifacts. Visitors appreciate its free entry and serene atmosphere, though some note ongoing renovations. It's a valuable cultural experience for those seeking tranquility and a glimpse into local Buddhist heritage.

"Want to see the oldest pagoda in Hoi An? You have to check out Chuc Thanh Pagoda! It was built way back in 1454 by a Chinese monk and it still has a bunch of ancient artifacts, like a 200-year-old stone gong and a cool, fish-shaped wooden gong.

This is a great spot to learn about the history of Buddhism in Hoi An."

Do Cuong

"When you in Hoi An you must to put that place on your bucket list. It is place with theix of history and spiritual vibe call pogoda. Free entrece. I visited with Guruwalk bicycle tour and was just a great experience."

Dominika Bochenek

"Very quite and nice, good for a walk and you can get into the Vietnamese culture"

Tran Do MinhChau

What People Like

Oldest pagoda in Hoi An
Peaceful and spiritual vibe
Free entry

What People Dislike

Parts under renovation

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Chuc Thanh Pagoda is a short distance from Hoi An Old Town. Many visitors opt for a pleasant bicycle ride, which takes about 15-20 minutes. Taxis or ride-sharing services are also readily available. Some travelers have enjoyed visiting as part of a guided bicycle tour, which can offer historical context. Reddit

Yes, Chuc Thanh Pagoda is accessible by car, and there is usually parking available nearby. The roads leading to the pagoda are generally well-maintained, making it a convenient option for those who prefer not to cycle.

For the most peaceful experience, consider cycling to the pagoda. This allows you to enjoy the surrounding scenery at your own pace and arrive when it's less crowded, often in the early morning.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, Chuc Thanh Pagoda offers free entry to all visitors. This makes it an accessible and budget-friendly cultural experience in Hoi An. Reddit

The pagoda is generally open from early morning until late afternoon. While specific hours can vary, it's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the site and its surroundings.

There is no need to book tickets in advance as entry to Chuc Thanh Pagoda is free. You can visit at your convenience during its operating hours.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

At Chuc Thanh Pagoda, you can explore Vietnam's oldest pagoda, admire ancient artifacts like a 200-year-old stone gong, and experience the peaceful spiritual atmosphere. It's a great place to learn about Buddhism in Hoi An and observe monks in meditation. Reddit

Yes, Chuc Thanh Pagoda offers many picturesque spots for photography, especially the intricate architecture and serene garden settings. The golden hour light can also enhance your photos. Remember to be respectful of worshippers.

While monks are present and often meditating, it's important to maintain a respectful distance and avoid disturbing them. Observing their peaceful routines is part of the experience.

Absolutely. Many visitors find Chuc Thanh Pagoda to be a very quiet and nice place for a walk, offering a chance to immerse yourself in Vietnamese culture and find a moment of peace. Reddit

Some reviews mention that parts of the pagoda may be under renovation at times. While this might affect the view slightly, the historical and spiritual essence of the site remains intact. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Chuc Thanh Pagoda is primarily a place of worship and historical significance, so there are no restaurants or food stalls directly within the pagoda grounds. However, you can find numerous dining options in the nearby Hoi An Old Town.

It's generally advisable to consume food and drinks outside the main pagoda areas out of respect for the sacred site. There are usually vendors or small eateries near the entrance or in the surrounding areas if you need refreshments.

📸 📸 Photography

The pagoda's traditional architecture, serene courtyards, ancient artifacts, and the presence of monks offer excellent photography opportunities. Capture the intricate details of the buildings and the peaceful atmosphere. Reddit

While photography is generally allowed, it's crucial to be respectful. Avoid taking photos of monks without their explicit consent and refrain from using flash in enclosed or sacred areas. Always prioritize respect over a photo.

Early mornings offer soft, diffused light and fewer crowds, ideal for capturing the pagoda's tranquility. Late afternoons can provide beautiful golden hour lighting, adding warmth to your shots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Chuc Thanh Pagoda offers a unique cultural and historical experience that can be educational for families. While it's a place of worship, the open grounds allow children to explore respectfully. The ancient artifacts, like the unique gongs, can spark curiosity. It's a good opportunity to teach children about different cultures and religions in a peaceful setting. Remember to ensure children are dressed respectfully and encouraged to maintain a quiet demeanor. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Backpackers

For solo travelers and backpackers, Chuc Thanh Pagoda is a fantastic free attraction that offers a genuine glimpse into local culture and history. It's a perfect spot for quiet reflection or to simply soak in the peaceful atmosphere away from the usual tourist crowds. Many find it a refreshing break from the bustling Old Town. Consider joining a local bicycle tour to get the most out of your visit and learn about its significance. Reddit

🧘‍♀️ Spiritual Seekers & Culture Enthusiasts

Chuc Thanh Pagoda is a must-visit for those seeking spiritual experiences and cultural immersion. As the oldest pagoda in Hoi An, it's steeped in history and offers a profound sense of peace. Witnessing monks in meditation and exploring ancient artifacts provides a deep connection to Buddhist traditions. The pagoda's serene energy is often highlighted by visitors, making it an ideal destination for quiet contemplation and cultural discovery. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Journey Through Time: The History of Chuc Thanh Pagoda

Chuc Thanh Pagoda holds the distinction of being the oldest pagoda in Hoi An, a testament to its enduring significance. Established in 1454 by a Chinese monk, it has witnessed centuries of history and cultural evolution. The pagoda serves as a vital center for Buddhist practice and a living museum of religious heritage. Its architecture and preserved artifacts offer a tangible connection to the past, making it a crucial site for understanding the spiritual landscape of the region. Reddit

Within its walls, visitors can discover ancient artifacts that whisper tales of bygone eras. Notably, a 200-year-old stone gong and a unique fish-shaped wooden gong are among the treasures that have been preserved. These items are not merely relics; they are integral to the pagoda's history and the Buddhist rituals practiced here. The presence of these artifacts underscores the pagoda's role in safeguarding cultural heritage and continuing ancient traditions. Reddit

Beyond its historical importance, Chuc Thanh Pagoda is cherished for its spiritual ambiance. Many visitors report feeling a sense of peace and good energy upon entering the grounds. The sight of monks engaged in meditation adds to the tranquil atmosphere, offering a glimpse into a life dedicated to spiritual practice. This blend of history, spirituality, and cultural immersion makes Chuc Thanh Pagoda a profoundly enriching destination for any visitor to Hoi An.

Experiencing the Serenity: What to Expect During Your Visit

Visiting Chuc Thanh Pagoda is an opportunity to step away from the vibrant energy of Hoi An and immerse yourself in a calm and spiritual environment. The pagoda is an active place of worship, and you'll often see monks going about their daily routines, including meditation. This creates a palpable sense of peace that many visitors find deeply restorative. Reddit

When exploring the pagoda, remember to dress respectfully. This means covering your shoulders and knees as a sign of reverence for the sacred space. The grounds are well-maintained, offering pleasant pathways for a leisurely stroll. Take your time to absorb the atmosphere, admire the traditional architecture, and appreciate the quietude. Reddit

While some reviews mention ongoing renovations, the core experience of tranquility and historical insight remains. It’s a place where you can connect with Vietnamese culture on a deeper level, away from the typical tourist trails. Consider visiting in the early morning to experience its quietest moments and truly appreciate its serene charm.

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