Ong Pagoda in Can Tho takes you back in time and tells you all about the colorful spiritual life of the locals. This pagoda is also a time capsule, where you can experience all the customs and ceremonies that have been around for ages.

1. About Ong Pagoda: Location, opening hours, entrance fee

When you are wandering around Ninh Kieu Ward in Can Tho, a particular local landmark will catch your attention with its archaic beauty - Ong Pagoda.

Ong Pagoda in Can Tho is a major landmark

Ong Pagoda is a stunning spiritual site that is as much a feast for the eyes as it is a slice of history. Originally built by Chinese folks from Guangzhou and Zhaoqing to worship Quan Thanh De (Quan Cong) and to gather as a community, it’s also known as the Canton Assembly Hall of Can Tho.

The showstopper here for Western tourists is undoubtedly the architecture. Ong Pagoda sits proudly by a wharf, rocking vibrant colors and intricate designs that make it impossible to miss.

Address: 32 Hai Ba Trung Street, Ninh Kieu Ward, Can Tho (formerly Tan An Ward, Ninh Kieu District)
Opening hours: 7 AM - 8 PM
Free admission with a 5,000-VND parking fee

2. How to get to Ong Pagoda?

Ong Pagoda is super easy to get to, especially from the city center. From Nguyen Van Cu Street, head northeast until it intersects with Cach Mang Thang 8 Street. Turn right onto Cach Mang Thang 8 Street, follow it until it merges with Nguyen Trai Street, and keep going. At the end of Nguyen Trai Street is a roundabout, where you will make your exit onto Ngo Gia Tu Street. From there, you are only a short drive away from Hai Ba Trung Street. Ong Pagoda will be on your right.

>>> Look into the Mekong Delta map for more destinations to visit!

3. Things to do at Ong Pagoda in Can Tho

3.1. Admire unique architecture

Stepping into Ong Pagoda is like walking into a living postcard. You will be greeted by five green stone steps and a set of traditional wooden doors with two guardian deities on either side.

All the architectural details in Ong Pagoda have significant meaning

Inside, Ong Pagoda unfolds in three parts. First is the front hall, where locals come to pay respects to the God of Fortune, Phuc Duc Chinh Than, and Ma Tien Tuong Quan. Going past a wooden screen that separates the front hall from other areas, you will find a courtyard. It is lower than the rest of the pagoda and has a movable roof to let in just the right amount of sunlight and let all the incense smoke out.

In the middle hall, make sure to look up and admire a dragon-shaped boat hanging from the ceiling. It is covered in tiny, intricate carvings of people, animals, and mythical creatures.

Then comes the main hall, where altars are decked out with golden reliefs that tell stories from the Three Kingdoms era. In the center is the statue of Quan Thanh De sitting on his throne, perfectly embracing the values that he stands for: loyalty and righteousness. Surrounding him are other important figures like Quan Am and various generals, all crafted from wood, plaster, or ceramics.

3.2. Learn about spiritual ceremonies

Ong Pagoda comes alive during its spiritual ceremonies, especially on big days like the full moon, the first day of a lunar month, or the birthday of Quan Thanh De on the 24th of the 6th lunar month. Most of the time, the temple is buzzing with people, the air thick with incense, and altars overflowing with offerings. Locals and visitors alike come to pray for good fortune, health, and a little extra luck in life. While the ceremonies are short, just about 15 minutes, they are brimming with meaning and tradition.

Learn about spiritual ceremonies at Ong Pagoda

Since Ong Pagoda is also an assembly hall, the sense of community here is hard to miss. People chat, laugh, and share in the moment, making it feel more like a gathering of old friends than a formal event. And if you’re lucky enough to be there during the lantern auction, lion and dragon dances, or the eye-opening ceremony, you are in for a treat.

Before the lion and dragon dancers take to the streets, they come to Ong Pagoda for a blessing. The idea is to “open” the eyes of the lion or dragon, giving it sharp vision and fierce energy for the performance. You might catch this at the end of the year or right before a big festival.

Then, there’s the lantern auction, held during special occasions like the temple’s anniversary. Beautifully crafted lanterns are auctioned off to the highest bidder, and all the money raised goes to good causes like building schools, helping orphaned or disabled kids, or even sprucing up the temple itself.

3.3. Explore ancient reliefs

The first thing you will likely notice in Ong Pagoda is the incredible artwork etched into every corner, which includes the ancient reliefs. These carvings are essential to the overall design of the pagoda because they are everywhere. From wooden panels to beams, pillars, and even incense burners, it is like the whole place is a canvas. These reliefs depict scenes of dragons curling through the sky, phoenixes in mid-flight, or blooming plum flowers, orchids, chrysanthemums, and bamboo. On the beams and bronze bells, you will spot beautiful Chinese calligraphy in styles.

3.4. Experience local customs

You have known all about the special ceremonies, but how about the day-to-day activities at Ong Pagoda? One of the coolest rituals here is lighting an incense coil, writing one’s name or loved ones’ on a prayer card, and attaching it to the coil. Depending on the size, these coils can burn for 1 or 2 weeks. Then, there are the offerings. The locals often roll up with roast pig, duck, or chicken to honor deities. If you are unsure what to bring, the locals are happy to point you in the right direction.

>>> Read more: Mekong Delta: A one-stop guide to the largest delta in Vietnam

4. Best time to visit Ong Pagoda, Can Tho

Ong Pagoda is always open to visitors, so you can visit any time. That said, if you are looking to time your visit just right, there are a few key moments when Ong Pagoda really shines. The pagoda sees its biggest crowds during the full moon, the first day of a lunar month, the Tet Holiday, and especially the Quan Thanh De Festival on the 24th of the 6th lunar month.

Weather-wise, the Mekong Delta keeps things hot and humid all year long. The dry season, running from December to April, is the sweet spot for comfortable sightseeing. The rainy season, from May to November, which unfortunately coincides with the Quan Thanh De Festival, brings a bit of a challenge with its wet and sticky vibe.

>>> Read more: Mekong Delta weather: Things you need to know to plan a perfect trip

5. Important notes for visitors to Ong Pagoda

Ong Pagoda is a sacred space that deserves respect. To make your visit smooth, here are some key tips to keep in mind:

Dress modestly: Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, avoiding anything too revealing.
Remove your shoes before entering the pagoda: This shows respect and keeps the interior clean.
No filming or photography inside the main hall: Photography is off-limits here to preserve the sanctity of the space.
Maintain order: Keep your voice low and avoid any disruptive actions.
Do not touch artifacts: These treasures are meant to be admired, not handled.
Respect the local customs for offering ceremonies: Watch how the locals perform and follow their lead, ask questions and they would gladly help you out.
Keep the area clean: Dispose of any trash properly.

>>> Check out: Mekong Delta tour: A fascinating journey through Vietnam's iconic region

6. Where to go near Ong Pagoda?

Once you have soaked in the tranquility of Ong Pagoda, there are plenty of nearby spots to explore. These attractions are all just a short walk away.

Ninh Kieu Wharf (190 meters away): This lively riverside spot is perfect for a relaxing walk or a scenic boat ride along the Hau River.
Can Tho Market (300 meters away): This bustling market is where you can browse fresh produce, local snacks, and unique handicrafts.
Ninh Kieu Night Market (350 meters away): This spot comes alive at night with food stalls, souvenir shops, and a local vibe.
Can Tho Museum (600 meters away): Discover the history and culture of Can Tho and the Mekong Delta through fascinating exhibits here.

There are many attractions near Ong Pagoda

Ong Pagoda is a vibrant slice of Can Tho’s cultural landscape. From eye-catching architecture and ancient reliefs to lively spiritual ceremonies and local customs, this place offers a unique glimpse into the city’s heritage. So, next time you are in the Mekong Delta or Can Tho, make sure Ong Pagoda is on your bucket list.

Beyond Can Tho, Vietnam travel is a treasure trove of diverse experiences. If you are craving more adventure, Ha Long Bay, Da Nang, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc are some of the best places to continue your trip at. Each of these destinations offers something special, making Vietnam a dream for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure.

To make your journey even better, consider staying at the resorts and hotels of Vinpearl. Located across the country’s top destinations, Vinpearl offers luxurious accommodations, world-class amenities, and exceptional services, ensuring your stay is as comfortable as it is memorable.

And for a dose of fun, VinWonders, Vietnam’s premier series of entertainment complexes, is the perfect spot for families and friends alike, featuring roller coasters, cultural shows, and endless excitement.