Dec - 01 - 2025
Cho Quan Church stands as a testament to Ho Chi Minh City's enduring faith and layered history. Hidden in former District 5, this historic church is both a place of worship and one of Saigon’s oldest Catholic landmarks. While landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral often steal the spotlight, Cho Quan Church offers a more intimate and equally profound glimpse into the city's spiritual and architectural heritage. In this GTrip guide, we’ll explore its rich history, striking Gothic Revival design, and essential visitor tips.
An overview of Cho Quan Church
- Address: 120 Tran Binh Trong, Cho Quan Ward (formerly Ward 2, District 5), Ho Chi Minh City
- Ticket price: Free, donations are welcome
- Opening hours: 5:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 1:00 PM - 9:00 PM daily
- Mass times:
- Sunday: 5:00 AM, 6:30 AM, 8:00 AM, 4:30 PM, 6:00 PM
- Monday - Saturday: 5:00 AM, 5:30 PM
Cho Quan Church, officially known as the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, is a profoundly significant yet often overlooked gem in Ho Chi Minh City. As a cornerstone of one of Saigon's earliest Catholic communities, it offers a serene and authentic atmosphere for worship and reflection. Its impressive bell tower serves as a landmark in former District 5, inviting visitors to explore a piece of history that predates many of the city's more famous colonial-era buildings.
Cho Quan Church stands as one of Saigon’s earliest Catholic landmarks, blending spiritual serenity with deep cultural heritage
The history of Cho Quan Church
Cho Quan Church, located in Ho Chi Minh City, is one of the oldest Catholic churches in the area with a history dating back to the 17th and 18th centuries. The parish was officially established in 1722. It began with a chapel built in 1674 in a village called Xom Bot, which later became known as Cho Quan after a bustling market in the area.
The church faced multiple reconstructions after natural disasters and social upheavals, including anti-Christian movements and the Tay Son Rebellion. In 1723, Jesuit priest Emmanuel Quitaon converted the original chapel into a church. The current church structure, built in a Romanesque-Gothic style, was constructed under Father Nicola Hamm starting in 1882 and completed in 1896. Father Nicola Hamm, who contributed significantly to the construction, was buried in the church next to the altar of the Virgin Mary.
The church features a three-story bell tower with five bells cast in France, and its layout is oriented west to east, symbolizing worshippers facing Jerusalem. It remains a key religious and architectural landmark, rooted in the legacy of Central Vietnamese Catholic migrants who settled here centuries ago.
Cho Quan Church dates back to the 17th century and stands as a lasting Romanesque-Gothic symbol of faith and history
Architectural highlights of Cho Quan Church
The architecture of Cho Quan Church is a masterclass in the Gothic Revival style, characterized by its soaring heights, intricate details, and sense of divine grandeur. It stands in beautiful contrast to the surrounding Sino-Vietnamese architecture of former District 5.
The exterior of Cho Quan Church
The first thing that captures your attention is the church's commanding exterior. The facade is dominated by a single, majestic bell tower that soars to a height of 57 meters (187 feet), crowned with a cross that watches over the neighborhood. This central belfry is flanked by symmetrical wings, creating a balanced and harmonious appearance. The design features classic Gothic elements like tall pointed arches that emphasize height and draw the eye heavenward. The walls, though aged, display the fine craftsmanship of the late 19th century, with subtle decorative buttresses and mouldings that add texture and depth to the structure.
The interior of Cho Quan Church
Stepping inside Cho Quan Church feels like entering another world. The clamor of the city fades away, replaced by a cool, solemn, and airy atmosphere. The interior's design continues the Gothic theme with a magnificent high-vaulted ceiling supported by rows of pillars. This structural design supports the roof and also creates an overwhelming sense of space and reverence. Light filters through a series of beautiful stained-glass windows, most of which were imported from France. They are works of art that depict various biblical scenes and saints, casting colorful, ethereal patterns across the pews and floor. The focal point of the interior is the ornate main altar, meticulously carved and dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, providing a stunning centerpiece for worship.
Step inside Cho Quan Church to find a serene space with soaring Gothic arches, colorful stained-glass windows
Things to do at Cho Quan Church
A visit to Cho Quan Church is more than just an architectural tour. It’s an opportunity to experience a unique cultural and spiritual pocket of Ho Chi Minh City.
Participating in religious services and holidays
You can attend daily Masses and especially the major religious holidays such as Christmas and Easter at Cho Quan Church. During Christmas, thousands of parishioners gather here, joyfully singing carols in a solemn and warm atmosphere. The entire church is beautifully decorated with colorful lights and special ornaments that vividly recreate the Nativity story through live performances. Easter at the church is a deeply cherished celebration, commemorating the Resurrection of Christ with a solemn Mass and joyful atmosphere. It fills both believers and visitors with peace and renewed faith in Christianity. Joining these services allows you to immerse yourself in the community spirit, enjoy holy moments, and experience the unique religious culture of the local people.
Experience the vibrant faith and community spirit of Cho Quan Church through its joyful Christmas and Easter celebrations filled with music, light, and devotion
Taking beautiful photos
For photographers, Cho Quan Church is a treasure trove of stunning visuals. The symmetrical front facade provides a classic, powerful shot, especially in the soft light of the early morning or late afternoon. Try framing the 57-meter bell tower against the blue sky for a dramatic perspective. Inside, the play of light through the vibrant stained-glass windows creates a magical effect, perfect for capturing contemplative and atmospheric images. Remember to be respectful and avoid using flash, especially if a service is in progress or people are praying.
Join charitable activities at Cho Quan Church
Participating in charitable activities at Cho Quan Church offers a meaningful way to connect with the local community and live out the church’s message of compassion. The parish often organizes charity programs, including food donations, scholarships for underprivileged students, and visits to hospitals and orphanages. During major religious seasons like Christmas and Easter, parishioners and visitors can join in preparing gift packages or cooking communal meals. They can also help decorate the church for outreach events. These activities bring joy to those in need and also foster a sense of unity, empathy, and shared faith among everyone involved.
Join Cho Quan Church’s charitable programs to share compassion through food donations, scholarships, and festive community outreach that unite faith and kindness
How to get to Cho Quan Church
Located in former District 5, Cho Quan Church is easily accessible from the city center (formerly District 1). Here are the most convenient ways to get there:
- Taxi or ride-hailing app (Grab/XanhSM/Be): This is the easiest and most convenient option. Simply input "Nha tho Cho Lon" or the address "120 Tran Binh Trong" into the app. A ride from District 1 typically takes 15 - 20 minutes, depending on traffic, and is very affordable.
- Public bus: For a more local experience, several public bus routes pass near the church. Look for buses that have stops along Tran Hung Dao or Nguyen Trai streets, from which the church is a short walk. Bus routes 01 and 139 are viable options.
- Motorbike: If you are comfortable navigating Ho Chi Minh City's traffic, renting a motorbike gives you the most flexibility. Parking is usually available on the church grounds or in a designated nearby lot for a small fee.
Nearby attractions to the Cho Quan Church
Your visit to Cho Quan Church can be easily combined with a tour of other fascinating sites in and around former District 5. For a full day of exploration, you can combine these spots with our comprehensive guide to Cho Lon (Chinatown).
- Ho Thi Ky Flower Market: This is the city's largest wholesale flower market. It’s a riot of color and fragrance, offering a stunning visual feast and a glimpse into the city's vibrant floral trade, especially in the early morning.
- An Dong Market: A massive indoor market, An Dong is a less-touristy alternative to Ben Thanh Market. It’s famous for its extensive collection of fabrics, clothing, and handicrafts on the upper floors and a fantastic food court in the basement.
- Thien Hau Pagoda: Located in the heart of Cho Lon, this beautiful Chinese-style pagoda is dedicated to the sea goddess Mazu. Its atmospheric interior, filled with incense smoke and intricate carvings, makes it one of the most captivating spiritual sites in the city.
Combine your visit to Cho Quan Church with nearby highlights likevThien Hau Pagoda for a full day of culture and discovery in historic District 5
Practical tips on visiting Cho Quan Church
To ensure your visit is respectful and enjoyable, keep these practical tips in mind:
- Dress appropriately: This is an active place of worship. Both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, and tank tops.
- Mind your etiquette: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor inside the church. If mass is underway, do not walk around or disrupt the service. You may sit quietly in the back pews.
- Photography rules: Taking photos is generally permitted when mass is not in session. However, never use flash photography as it can damage old artwork and disturb worshippers.
- Best time to visit: For sightseeing and photography, the best time to visit is on a weekday morning or early afternoon when it is quietest. If you wish to experience a service, refer to the mass times listed above and plan to arrive a few minutes early.
Cho Quan Church is a living monument of faith, a masterpiece of religious architecture, and a quiet sanctuary in a bustling metropolis. As one of Saigon’s oldest Catholic churches with stunning Gothic Revival design, it’s a must-visit for lovers of history, culture, and spirituality. By adding this historic landmark to your Ho Chi Minh City itinerary, you step off the beaten path and discover a side of the city that is both profound and beautiful. As you plan your Vietnamese adventure, be sure to explore more of GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency expert travel guides for more insider tips and hidden gems across the country.
