Discovering Ong Pagoda: A Cultural and Historical Gem in Can Tho

Nestled in the lively Ninh Kieu Wharf of Can Tho City, Ong Pagoda stands as a significant representation of the cultural and spiritual life of the local Chinese-Vietnamese community, dating back over 120 years.

This site, known to many as Quang Trieu Assembly Hall, was initially built as a gathering space for Cantonese and Zhaoqing immigrants from Guangdong, China, evolving into an important spiritual and architectural icon.

Located on Hai Ba Trung Street, the pagoda covers more than 500 square meters. Construction began in 1894 and was completed within a two-year timeframe.

Many of the materials used in the construction were sent from China. The layout of the building is designed in the shape of a “Quoc” (國) character, with various sectors connected in a square setup.

The building’s roof is adorned with yin-yang tiles and green-glazed ceramic edges, enhancing its visual appeal.

As visitors walk into the pagoda, they encounter beautifully carved wooden doors that are opened exclusively on the 1st and 15th of each lunar month.

Behind these doors is the central sanctuary, which honors various deities and legendary figures important to the Chinese community.

The structure is primarily constructed of invaluable hardwood, featuring a complex network of supporting beams and rafters.

The majestic vaulted ceiling is held up by six large columns painted red, resting on uncut stone bases.

The temple displays stunning relief carvings on horizontal signage, couplets, and beams, showcasing traditional designs such as plum blossoms, bamboo, and mythical creatures like dragons and phoenixes.

In the main hall, the right altar is devoted to Phuc Duc Chinh Than (God of Blessings), while the left altar pays tribute to Ma Tien General.

The central altar honors Guan Sheng Di Jun (Lord Guan or Guan Yu), a revered figure representing virtue, loyalty, courage, and respect in Chinese tradition.

Other key figures include Mazu (the Heavenly Empress), Caishen (God of Wealth), and Dong Vinh (a respected scholar-official).

A separate altar for Guanyin (Goddess of Mercy) is located beside the main hall, featuring sculptures made of various materials showcasing the skills of traditional Chinese artisans.

A unique practice at Ong Pagoda involves spiral incense offerings, where devotees inscribe their names and birth years on red plaques and affix them to large coils of incense. These coils burn for 10 to 12 days, symbolizing ongoing prayers for tranquility and success.

Ong Pagoda draws thousands of tourists each year, notably during significant lunar festivities like Guan Sheng Di Jun’s celebration on the 24th day of the 6th lunar month and the Lunar New Year festivities.

Beyond its aesthetic and cultural importance, Ong Pagoda played an essential role in Vietnam’s revolutionary history, providing refuge to activists during the U.S. resistance war in Can Tho. Acknowledging its historical and cultural worth, the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture and Information designated Ong Pagoda as a National Architectural and Artistic Heritage Site in 1993.

Tran Tuyen