Hoi Quan Phuoc Kien (Phuc Kien Assembly Hall), Hoi An (must see)

The Phuc Kien Assembly Hall boasts an architecture that seamlessly blends tradition with grandeur. Constructed in 1697 by Fujian migrants, this architectural masterpiece follows the style of the letter "Tam," featuring meticulously crafted gates, courtyards, and ornamental landscapes. Two rows of East and West houses, along with a main hall, backyard, and rear hall, complete the layout of this sacred sanctuary.

At the heart of the Assembly Hall lies the Main Palace, a hallowed space dedicated to the veneration of Thien Hau Thanh Mau, Bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara, and the protective deities of rivers, wealth, and children. Thien Hau Thanh Mau, revered as the goddess of the sea, holds a special place in the hearts of worshippers, blessing Chinese merchants with safe passage through stormy seas to the shores of Hoi An.

Stepping through the Tam Quan gate, visitors are greeted by the timeless beauty of yin and yang tiles adorning its facade, while a gracefully curved roof adorned with winding dragons symbolizes authority and solemnity. Every architectural element within the Assembly Hall bears traces of ancient symbolism and cultural heritage, offering a window into the rich traditions of the Fujianese community.

Beyond its architectural splendor and historical significance, the Phuc Kien Assembly Hall provides a sanctuary of tranquility amidst the bustling streets of Hoi An. Visitors are invited to immerse themselves in the serene ambiance of this sacred space, where the whispers of ancient prayers and the scent of burning incense evoke a sense of peace and contemplation.