The Tran Family Chapel in Hoi An – A 200 Year Old Heritage

⭐ Overview

The Tran Family Chapel (Nhà thờ tộc Trần) is one of the oldest and most representative ancestral houses in Hoi An. Built in the early 1800s by a high-ranking mandarin of the Nguyễn Dynasty, the chapel preserves traditional architecture, cultural values, and the spiritual identity of the Tran clan for more than two centuries. Today, it stands as a unique historical landmark where visitors can explore Hoi An’s cultural roots beyond its iconic lantern streets.

⭐ Historical background

The Tran Family Chapel was established around 1802 by Tran Tu Nhac, a respected envoy and mandarin of the imperial court. Before departing on a diplomatic mission, he built this chapel as a sacred place for his descendants to honor their ancestors, protect family records, and maintain spiritual continuity.

Over generations, the chapel has served as the heart of the Tran lineage. Precious relics, genealogical books, wooden chests, old documents, and ceremonial items are carefully preserved inside, offering rare insight into the social and cultural life of Hoi An’s prominent families during its golden trading era.

⭐ Architectural highlights

The Tran Family Chapel is an excellent example of Hoi An’s blended architectural style, influenced by Vietnamese tradition, Chinese craftsmanship, and Japanese aesthetics. Its design features:

• A spacious courtyard surrounded by yellow-painted walls
• A three-compartment layout with a traditional wooden structure
• An âm dương (yin-yang) tiled roof with elegant curves
• Antique wooden beams, carved columns, and hand-crafted altars
• A main sanctuary dedicated to ancestral worship
• Artifacts over 100–200 years old, including calligraphy, wooden boxes, ceremonial weapons, and household antiques

The tranquil atmosphere, combined with detailed wood carvings, makes it a remarkable destination for travelers interested in heritage architecture.

⭐ Entrance fees and opening hours

• Address: 21 Lê Lợi Street, Hoi An Ancient Town, Da Nang
• Opening hours: 7:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee:
  • 80,000 VND for Vietnamese visitors
  • 150,000 VND for international visitors. This point of interest is included in Hoi An’s official heritage ticket, which allows access to four historical sites of your choice.

⭐ How to get there

Since the chapel is located in the pedestrian zone of the ancient town, the best way to visit is by:

• Motorbike
• Electric scooter
• E-bike
• Bicycle

You can ride to the entrance of the old town, park your vehicle, and continue on foot. Renting a bike or scooter gives you the freedom to explore Hoi An at your own pace.

✔ Recommended rental service

For a smooth experience, travelers often choose Anh Khoa Hoi An:

• Motorbikes, electric scooters, e-bikes, and bicycles
• Affordable prices & new models
• Free delivery to hotels in Hoi An
• 24/7 customer support

👉 Book instantly: https://hoianit.com

⭐ Visitor tips

• Wear modest clothing when entering the worship area
• Be mindful of noise, especially during prayer or ritual hours
• Do not touch displayed antiques unless permitted
• Photography is allowed, but avoid flash near delicate artifacts
• Explore early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter visit

⭐ Nearby attractions

You can easily combine your visit with several landmarks within walking distance:

• Japanese Covered Bridge – the symbol of Hoi An
• Fujian Assembly Hall – dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea
• Tan Ky Ancient House – a 200-year-old merchant residence
• Quan Cong Temple – honoring the legendary Chinese general
• Hoi An Market – vibrant and perfect for trying local food

These attractions together provide a deeper understanding of Hoi An’s multicultural heritage.

⭐ Conclusion

The Tran Family Chapel is more than an ancestral house — it is a living testament to the cultural depth and historical richness of Hoi An. Its centuries-old architecture, sacred atmosphere, and preserved artifacts make it a must-visit site for travelers who want to explore beyond the lantern-lit streets.

And if you want a flexible and budget-friendly way to tour Hoi An, don’t forget to rent a motorbike, electric scooter, e-bike, or bicycle from Anh Khoa Hoi An to make your journey even more enjoyable.