St Francis Xavier Church (Cha Tam Church): History, Architecture & Mass Times

St Francis Xavier Church, known intimately to locals as Cha Tam Church, is a profound historical and spiritual landmark nestled in Saigon’s Chinatown. This century-old church stands as a breathtaking testament to the city's multicultural soul. It masterfully weaves together the grandeur of French Gothic architecture with the intricate symbolism of traditional Chinese design. It’s a place where pointed arches reach towards a ceiling adorned with Eastern motifs and where prayers are offered in a chorus of Vietnamese and Chinese. For the curious traveler, Cha Tam Church is a deep dive into the layered history and cultural fabric of Saigon. In this comprehensive guide by GTrip, we'll walk you through everything you need to know to make your visit unforgettable.

Necessary information about St Francis Xavier Church

• Address: 25 Hoc Lac Street, Cho Lon Ward (formerly Ward 14, District 5), Ho Chi Minh City
• Opening hours: The Mass schedule at Cha Tam Catholic Church in Cho Lon is as follows:
  • Weekdays: 5:30 AM (Vietnamese), 5:30 PM (Chinese).
  • Saturday: 5:30 AM (Vietnamese), 6:30 PM (Vietnamese), 7:30 PM (Chinese).
  • Sunday: 5:30 AM (Vietnamese), 7:15 AM (Chinese), 8:45 AM (Vietnamese), 4:00 PM (Vietnamese), 5:30 PM (Chinese).

Note: Individual confessions are available every Saturday from 2:30 PM to 4:00 PM.

Francis Xavier Church is an anchor of faith and history within the energetic whirlwind of Cho Lon. You'll find it tucked away from the main thoroughfares, offering a pocket of serenity amidst the city's hustle. Located in the heart of historic Cho Lon (Chinatown), the church is surrounded by bustling markets, aromatic food stalls, and traditional shophouses. The sounds of vendors and the scents of medicinal herbs and street food create a uniquely Saigon welcome as you approach this spiritual oasis.

Nestled in the heart of Cho Lon, Francis Xavier Church offers a serene escape amid bustling markets, fragrant food stalls, and the vibrant energy of Saigon’s Chinatown

Who was Cha Tam?

The church's popular name, "Cha Tam", is a tribute to its founder, Father Pierre d'Assou de la Combe. A French missionary, Father d'Assou, arrived in Vietnam with a mission to serve the burgeoning Chinese population in Cho Lon. He immersed himself in the local culture, becoming fluent in several Chinese dialects, which allowed him to connect deeply with the community he served.

His Vietnamese name, Tam, was a phonetic approximation of his French name, "d'Assou". The respectful title "Cha" means "Father" in Vietnamese. Thus, "Cha Tam" became the affectionate name the local people gave him. He was a community builder, an advocate, and a spiritual guide who understood the unique cultural needs of his congregation. His vision was to create a place of worship that felt both authentically Catholic and deeply connected to the Sino-Vietnamese identity of its members. That vision is beautifully realized in the church that now bears his name.

The history of St Francis Xavier Church in Ho Chi Minh City

Beyond its religious significance, St Francis Xavier Church was the setting for one of the most dramatic events in modern Vietnamese history. It stands as a silent witness to the final hours of the First Republic of South Vietnam.

The events of November 2, 1963, cemented Cha Tam Church's place in the history books. Fleeing the presidential palace during a military coup, President Diem and his advisor-brother Nhu sought refuge in the relative anonymity of Cho Lon. They spent their final moments of freedom attending morning mass and praying at St Francis Xavier Church. It was from here that they made their final, fateful phone call to the coup leaders, agreeing to surrender. They were promptly captured by soldiers in the church's tranquil courtyard and were assassinated shortly after, marking a dramatic and violent end to their regime.

St. Francis Xavier stands as a historic landmark where President Ngo Dinh Diem and his brother were captured in 1963, ending South Vietnam’s First Republic

Architecture of St Francis Xavier Church

The architectural brilliance of St Francis Xavier Church lies in its seamless and respectful fusion of two distinct worlds. It is a dialogue between East and West, where European religious forms are articulated with an unmistakable Asian vocabulary. This blend makes it one of the most architecturally unique churches in all of Vietnam.

Outside the church

At first glance, the church's silhouette is distinctly European. A tall, slender bell tower rises toward the sky, featuring the pointed arches, classic proportions, and ribbed vaults characteristic of French Gothic design. However, a closer look reveals a fascinating cultural conversation. The roofs are not covered in traditional European slate but in green-glazed, yin-yang-style Chinese tiles, which are believed to bring balance and protection. The roof ridges are adorned with decorative scrolled finials, reminiscent of those found atop temples and pagodas throughout Asia.

The main entrance gate is a work of art in itself, designed in a traditional Chinese three-part style. Above the entrance, you can see inscriptions in Chinese characters, a feature rarely found in Catholic churches. The building's pale yellow or light cream-colored stucco walls create a soft contrast with the vibrant green tiles. This combination gives the entire structure a gentle, welcoming appearance that feels perfectly at home in its Cho Lon surroundings.

Inside the church

Stepping inside, the Gothic influence continues with a high, vaulted ceiling that draws the eyes upward, creating a sense of sacred space and divine grandeur. Rows of stately columns line the nave, leading to the main altar, while light filters through beautiful stained-glass windows depicting saints and biblical scenes. Yet, it is the details that truly enchant.

The side altars are perhaps the most striking example of this fusion. They are designed to resemble traditional Chinese ancestral shrines, featuring intricate gilded carvings and red lacquer finishes. Instead of solely Latin or Vietnamese inscriptions, you will find parallel sentences written in elegant Chinese characters, offering blessings and prayers. The Stations of the Cross are also marked with Chinese text, making the story accessible to the founding community. This thoughtful integration of familiar cultural elements ensures that the church is not an alien structure imposed on the landscape but a true home for its multicultural congregation.

A unique fusion of French Gothic and Chinese design, the church’s yin-yang tiles and calligraphic details make it a true Cho Lon icon

Things to do at St Francis Xavier Church

A visit to Cha Tam Church offers more than just architectural appreciation. It's an opportunity to engage with the local culture, find moments of tranquility, and capture memories of a truly unique place.

Capturing stunning photos

For photographers, Cha Tam Church is a treasure trove of visual delights. The key is to capture the unique architectural dialogue. Focus on shots that frame both the Gothic and Chinese elements together, such as capturing the cross on the bell tower with the curved, tiled eaves in the foreground. Inside, the play of light through the stained-glass windows creates a beautiful, ethereal atmosphere, especially in the early morning or late afternoon. Be sure to photograph the ornate, shrine-like altars and the details of the Chinese calligraphy. Remember to be respectful: always avoid using flash photography, especially during services, and take pictures quietly so as not to disturb worshippers.

Photographers will love capturing the church’s blend of Gothic and Chinese design, best highlighted in soft morning or late-afternoon light

Joining charitable activities

St Francis Xavier Church is a living, breathing parish with a deep commitment to its community. The church regularly organizes and hosts charitable activities to support the less fortunate residents of former District 5. These activities often include food drives, distribution of necessities to the elderly, and support for impoverished families. While these are not tourist events, visitors who feel a connection to the church's mission can respectfully inquire at the parish office about ways to contribute or support their community outreach programs. It offers a chance to see the compassionate heart of the congregation in action.

Exploring the nearby area

The church's location in Cho Lon is a gateway to one of Ho Chi Minh City's most fascinating districts. After your visit, take time to simply wander the surrounding streets. You’ll be immersed in the vibrant sensory experience of Chinatown. Explore the narrow alleyways filled with traditional shophouses, discover hidden temples, and observe the daily commerce of Binh Tay Market. The area of Cho Lon gives you a powerful sense of old Saigon, a world away from the modern skyscrapers of District 1. It’s an exploration of culture, history, and the rhythms of local life.

Located in the heart of Cho Lon, the church offers the perfect starting point to explore Saigon’s bustling Chinatown and its rich cultural tapestry

How to get to St Francis Xavier Church

Navigating Ho Chi Minh City to find this hidden gem is part of the experience. From the downtown area of former District 1, you have several convenient options to reach the church.

• By car or motorbike: The most direct routes offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's daily life.
  • The fastest route is typically via Au Co and Truong Chinh Streets, a journey that takes approximately 28 minutes depending on traffic.
  • An alternative scenic route is along Ly Thuong Kiet Street, which provides a different perspective of the city and takes around 30 minutes.
• By ride-hailing app: Using a ride-hailing app like Grab or XanhSM is highly recommended. Simply enter "Cha Tam Church" or "Nha tho Cha Tam" as your destination. The driver will take you directly to the entrance, eliminating any navigation or language barrier challenges. Fares are affordable and fixed upfront.
• By public bus: For the budget-conscious and adventurous traveler, the public bus system is a viable option. Several bus lines service the Cho Lon area. Look for routes that stop near the Cho Lon Bus Station, from which the church is a short walk away. This method offers an authentic local experience, though it requires a bit more planning.

Nearby attractions to St Francis Xavier Church

Your trip to Cha Tam Church can easily be combined with a visit to several other iconic Cho Lon landmarks, all within easy walking distance.

• Luong Nhu Hoc Lantern Street: Known as Saigon's "Lantern Street", this area is a dazzling spectacle of color and light. While it's most famous and vibrant during the Mid-Autumn Festival, the shops here sell beautiful, handcrafted lanterns year-round. An evening stroll down this street is a magical experience.
• Thien Hau Pagoda: Just a short walk away is one of the oldest and most significant Chinese temples in the city. Dedicated to Mazu, the goddess of the sea, this pagoda is an atmospheric masterpiece of traditional Chinese temple architecture. You shouldn’t miss the stunning ceramic dioramas on the roof and the giant, slow-burning incense coils hanging from the ceiling, filling the air with fragrant smoke.
• Binh Tay Market: Binh Tay Market is a sprawling wholesale hub that offers a fascinating, unfiltered look at local commerce. Designed by a French architect but funded by a Chinese merchant, it’s another example of the area’s cultural fusion. While it’s more of a commercial center than a tourist market, its clock tower and bustling atmosphere are worth seeing.
• Chinatown: This isn't a single street but rather a collection of them known for incredible food. Streets like Nguyen Trai and Tran Phu are lined with restaurants and stalls that have been serving generations of locals. It's the perfect place to continue your culinary exploration after visiting the church.

Cha Tam Church sits amid Cho Lon’s most iconic attractions, making it easy to pair your visit with nearby temples, lantern streets, bustling markets, and Chinatown eateries

Practical tips for visiting St Francis Xavier Church

To ensure your visit is respectful and enjoyable, please keep these simple guidelines in mind.

• Dress code: This is an active and deeply revered place of worship. Visitors should dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered. Avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops. Scarves or shawls are useful to have on hand.
• Behavior: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor inside the church grounds. Turn your mobile phone to silent mode and speak in hushed tones. If a mass or service is in progress, refrain from walking around the nave and stay in the visitor areas at the back or sides.
• Best time to visit: The best time for quiet exploration and photography is during the official visitor hours outside of mass times, particularly on weekday mornings when it is cooler and less crowded. Attending a Sunday mass offers a rich cultural experience but be prepared for a large, active congregation.
• Donations: There is no entrance fee to visit St Francis Xavier Church. However, the church relies on its community for preservation and charitable work. A small donation in the collection boxes is greatly appreciated and helps with the upkeep of this historic treasure.

St Francis Xavier Church is a vital cultural landmark that tells the story of Saigon's multicultural heritage. It stands as a powerful symbol of faith's ability to adapt and flourish, representing a unique and beautiful fusion of European and Asian traditions. Cha Tam Church offers a serene, enriching escape for history lovers, architecture enthusiasts, photographers, and spiritual seekers amid Ho Chi Minh City’s lively energy. With this guide from GTrip - Vietnam Travel Agency, your visit to Cha Tam Church will be a rich and unforgettable part of your Ho Chi Minh City adventure.