The Tran Family Chapel
Tran Family Chapel is more than just a family's worshiping house: it is a historical landmark of the world famous Hoi An town.
Location & History
Identifying the most ancient and beautiful place in Hoi An may be a matter of personal opinion, but the Tran Family Chapel stands out as one of the oldest and most historically significant houses in the city, dating back to the early 19th century. Constructed by Tran Tu Nhac, a highly-respected mandarin during the reign of Emperor Gia Long, this chapel was originally built as a worship space for the family’s ancestors and as a means of preserving their traditions for future generations. Today, this must-see attraction can be found in the heart of old town Hoi An at 21 Le Loi Street.
Tran Family Chapel - Photo: Instagram @gringooo
What To See
Surrounded by a lush 1,500 square meter garden that features ornamental plants, flowers, fruit trees, and century-old trees, the Tran Family Chapel exemplifies a harmonious blend of Chinese, Japanese, and Vietnamese architectural styles that has remained nearly intact for two centuries. Built from precious wood with a distinctive pan-tiled roof, the structure includes a main area for worship and a supplementary space for the family leader and guests. Adhering to the principles of Feng Shui, the layout of both the house and garden has been carefully designed. The drawing room of the chapel features separate entrances for men and women, with the left side designated for men and the right side exclusively for women, adhering to traditional beliefs. Additionally, a central door, used during festivals such as Tet, is believed to permit the entry of ancestral spirits into the house.
Each year, the Tran Family Chapel serves as a gathering place for family members to express their gratitude to their ancestors. Parents also take the opportunity to educate their children about the clan’s traditions.
For visitors captivated by Hoi An's rich history and unique atmosphere, a trip to the Tran Family Chapel is an unforgettable experience. The remnants of Tran Tu Nhac’s legacy, such as a sword and a seal, tell stories that echo throughout the house, while family portraits and the warm ambiance of gatherings reinforce the chapel’s historical significance.
How To Get There
The chapel's central location within the old town makes it easily accessible, particularly by bicycle or on foot.
Tips
The site is open daily from 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM. The admission fee varies for Vietnamese and international visitors: VND 40,000 for access to three sites (Vietnamese) and VND 75,000 for access to six sites (foreigners). It's important to note that a single ticket in Hoi An differs from those in other areas, granting access to all the old streets of the Heritage Town, one of the four museums, one of the four traditional houses, one of the three assembly halls, a handicraft workshop, a traditional music concert, and either the Japanese Bridge or the Quan Cong Temple.
Useful Information
- Location: Lê Lợi, Hoi An Quang Nam, Vietnam
- Best for: Family, couple, solo
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 8:30 AM to 6:00 PM
- Distance to city center: 1.1km (0.7 mi)
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