Confucian Temple, Hoi An

Temple in Hoi An

CC BY-SA 4.0 / Christophe95

Located at the intersection of Trần Hưng Đạo and Lê Quý Đôn streets on the northwest fringe of the old city, Hoi An’s Confucian temple garners less attention in guidebooks and architectural discussions, likely due to its peripheral position. According to the “Ancient Town of Hoi An,” the temple was initially constructed in the mid-19th century and featured an ornamental transverse signboard from that era. It underwent significant renovations in 1911 with the addition of a hall of ceremonies. Historical records indicate that the first Confucian temple in Hoi An was established as early as the 18th century by local scholars to celebrate their academic accomplishments.

The temple’s design draws inspiration from the Văn Miếu Temple of Literature in Hanoi. At its southeastern front lies a rectangular pond, akin to the “Well of Celestial Clarity” found at Văn Miếu. Moving northwest, the layout includes the House of Ceremonies connected directly to the Confucius sanctuary. At the back of the property, a U-shaped courtyard houses what were once dormitories and lecture halls for students, reminiscent of the “College for the Sons of the Homeland” (Quoc Tu Giam) at Văn Miếu in Hanoi.

Today, this rear courtyard serves a new purpose as a workshop for ‘Smile House’, which provides employment for individuals with disabilities who create and sell handicrafts.

The Confucian Temple, Hoi An appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hoi An!

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