Hainan Assembly Hall
A historic assembly hall honoring 108 merchants lost at sea, featuring intricate art and potentially an unforgettable guided tour.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds, find peace
Hainan Assembly Hall
Best Time
Beat the crowds, find peace
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic assembly hall honoring 108 merchants lost at sea, featuring intricate art and potentially an unforgettable guided tour.
"This assembly hall was built back in 1875 (or maybe 1883) in memory of 108 local merchants who were killed at sea."
🎯 Arrive Early or Late
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
🗣️ Seek Out a Guide
If possible, engage with a local guide for an unforgettable, story-filled tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Memorial to 108 Merchants
Main Hall
A poignant tribute to 108 Chinese merchants tragically lost at sea in 1851.
Intricate Wall Decorations
Interior Walls
Marvel at the detailed artistry of wall carvings, a testament to traditional craftsmanship.
Passionate Local Guide
Entrance
Experience history brought to life by an enthusiastic guide whose storytelling is legendary.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Key for a Peaceful Visit
Embrace the Stories Within
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
After a month in Hoi An, these are the tips I tell my friends
🎯 Arrive Early or Late
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
🗣️ Seek Out a Guide
If possible, engage with a local guide for an unforgettable, story-filled tour.
Hoi An Old Town seemed like hell…THANK YOU REDDITORS
Things to do in Hoi An NOT tailor or restaurants or shopping?
⏳ Check Opening Hours
Confirm operating hours before your visit, as renovations or unexpected closures can occur.
📸 Admire the Artistry
Take time to appreciate the detailed wall decorations and traditional architecture.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Arrive Early or Late
Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
🗣️ Seek Out a Guide
If possible, engage with a local guide for an unforgettable, story-filled tour.
⏳ Check Opening Hours
Confirm operating hours before your visit, as renovations or unexpected closures can occur.
📸 Admire the Artistry
Take time to appreciate the detailed wall decorations and traditional architecture.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Hainan Assembly Hall for its well-maintained historical architecture and the poignant story of the 108 merchants. The hall is noted for its quiet atmosphere and the potential for an incredibly engaging tour if a passionate local guide is encountered. However, some visitors have experienced closures due to renovations or early morning closing times, leading to disappointment.
"This assembly hall was built back in 1875 (or maybe 1883) in memory of 108 local merchants who were killed at sea. They were murdered by a bunch of guys working for a corrupt naval commander. He had seized three merchant ships back in 1851 and then repainted them black to make it look like they had been captured from pirates.
Luckily, one sailor survived and managed to get the whole story to Emperor Tu Duc. The emperor was so mad he ordered the officers responsible to be executed and gave all the stolen stuff back to the families of the victims. Later on, this hall was built in their honor, along with other similar halls in places like Da Nang."
Do Cuong
"Very well maintained, quiet, with an interesting narrative about the wrongful execution of a group of sailors. Was especially interesting watching an artist making one of the wall decorations"
James Dray
"This is one of the many assembly halls of Chinese origin in downtown Hoi An. These were the important places for the Chinese merchants to worship and base their activities in the 16th and 17th centuries. This is worth a visit and it will not take much time."
Reza Sattarzadeh Nowbari
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hainan Assembly Hall is located in the heart of Hoi An's Ancient Town. You can easily walk there if you are staying in the old town, or take a short taxi or cyclo ride. Many visitors find it convenient to combine a visit with exploring the other historic sites in the area.
Parking is available in designated areas outside the pedestrian-only Ancient Town. From there, it's a pleasant walk to the assembly hall.
Yes, Grab is widely available in Hoi An and can drop you off at the edge of the Ancient Town, from where you can walk to the Hainan Assembly Hall.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, typically you will need to purchase a ticket to enter the Hainan Assembly Hall as part of the Hoi An Ancient Town entrance ticket. This ticket grants access to multiple historical sites.
Opening hours can vary, and the hall may be closed for renovations. It's best to check locally or confirm with your accommodation. Some visitors have reported it being closed early in the morning.
The cost is usually included in the Hoi An Ancient Town entrance ticket, which is a set price for access to several heritage sites.
During renovation periods, access may be restricted or the hall might be closed entirely. It's advisable to check for any ongoing work before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
A visit to the Hainan Assembly Hall typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on your interest in the history and the details of the architecture.
Due to its historic nature, accessibility can be challenging. The interior may have uneven surfaces and steps, so wheelchair users should proceed with caution.
It was built in honor of 108 Chinese merchants who were tragically killed at sea in 1851. It served as a community hub for Chinese merchants.
While not always formally advertised, you might encounter very passionate local guides at the entrance who offer insightful tours. Engaging with them can greatly enhance your understanding.
Dress respectfully, as it is a historical and cultural site. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended as you'll be exploring the Ancient Town.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally allowed inside the Hainan Assembly Hall, but it's always good practice to be respectful of the space and other visitors. Avoid flash photography if it might disturb the atmosphere or artwork.
The intricate wall decorations and the main altar area offer excellent photographic opportunities. The courtyard can also provide lovely shots, especially with good natural light.
Drone usage is typically restricted in historical and densely populated areas like Hoi An's Ancient Town. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tip: If you visit, try to find a guide who can make the history come alive with engaging stories. This will be key to keeping children interested. Also, ensure they have comfortable shoes for walking around the historic area.
🏛️ History Buffs
Don't miss: The detailed wall decorations and the opportunity to learn about the hall's role as a community center for Chinese merchants. Engaging with a knowledgeable guide will significantly enrich your understanding.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers
Recommendation: Take your time to absorb the atmosphere. If a guide is available and engaging, consider joining their tour to gain deeper insights. It's also an excellent spot for quiet contemplation and photography.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Tragic Tale of the 108 Merchants
Visiting the hall offers a chance to connect with this historical narrative. The story is not just about loss, but also about justice and remembrance. It's a powerful reminder of the historical trade routes and the risks faced by merchants of that era. The hall itself is a testament to the enduring legacy of these individuals and the community that honored them.
Architectural Significance and Preservation
The preservation of these historical buildings is crucial for understanding Hoi An's multicultural past. The hall is noted for being well-maintained, allowing visitors to appreciate the craftsmanship and historical ambiance. The dedication to preserving such sites ensures that future generations can learn from and be inspired by the rich heritage of Hoi An.
The Unforgettable Local Guide
This guide's deep knowledge and infectious energy are frequently highlighted as a major reason to visit. If you have the opportunity to encounter them, it's highly recommended to engage with their tour. Their dedication to sharing the stories of the Hainan Assembly Hall truly elevates the visitor experience, making it a standout attraction.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit