St. Anthony Ham Long Church – A Quiet Gem in the Heart of Hanoi
Explore St. Anthony Ham Long Church – Hanoi’s Hidden Sacred Treasure
In the middle of Hanoi’s busy streets, there is a peaceful place that many visitors miss. It’s called St. Anthony Ham Long Church (Nha Tho Ham Long), a quiet church full of history, culture, and beauty. If you’re looking for a special stop during your trip to Hanoi — not crowded, not noisy — this church might be the perfect choice.
About St. Anthony Ham Long Church
St. Anthony Ham Long Church, also known in Vietnamese as Nha Tho Ham Long, is one of the most historic and beautiful Catholic churches in Hanoi. Built in 1939 and located on Ham Long Street in the Hoan Kiem District, the church is dedicated to Saint Anthony of Padua.
What makes it special is that it was designed by a Vietnamese architect, unlike many other colonial-era churches. The architecture blends Gothic elements with local materials like lime, straw, and handmade paper, creating excellent acoustics and a peaceful interior. Today, it remains an active place of worship and a quiet escape in the heart of the bustling city — welcoming both worshippers and travelers who want to explore Hanoi’s spiritual and cultural heritage.
Simple Yet – Beautiful Architecture
– Gothic-Style Design: The church features a classic Gothic structure with tall pointed arches, vertical lines, and a high ceiling, which creates a feeling of openness and reverence.
– Local Materials, Local Spirit: Unlike many other churches in Hanoi built by the French, this one was designed by a Vietnamese architect using Vietnamese materials such as lime, straw, and traditional paper to form the ceiling arches. These materials not only support the structure but also improve acoustics naturally.
– Elegant Interior: Inside, the church is simple but graceful, with wooden pews, white and beige walls, and minimal decorations. This simplicity creates a calm, spiritual space for quiet reflection.
– Natural Light and Airiness: The design allows sunlight to stream through tall windows, illuminating the altar and filling the space with soft, natural light during the day. It gives the church a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
– Excellent Acoustics: Thanks to its vaulted ceiling and materials, the church is known for its clear, echo-free sound — perfect for choir performances and prayer ceremonies.
– Minimalist Exterior with Character: The outside of the church is not overly grand, but it stands out with its tall bell tower, clean white walls, and arched windows that reflect its quiet strength and humility — a perfect match for its peaceful inner spirit.
A Special Place for Culture and Community
– A Living Parish, Not Just a Landmark: St. Anthony Ham Long Church isn’t just a place for tourists — it’s a working, living church where local people come to pray, celebrate, and connect with one another. Every day, you’ll see families, students, and elders gathering here as part of their spiritual routine.
– Heart of the Local Catholic Community: The church is home to one of the most active Catholic parishes in Hanoi. Many people who live nearby attend Mass here weekly. It’s also a hub for youth groups, charity work, and community service, making it much more than a quiet religious site.
– Major Celebrations Throughout the Year:
The church holds vibrant religious events like:
- Christmas Eve Mass, often with music, lights, and decorations
- Easter celebrations, including traditional prayers and gatherings
- St. Anthony’s Feast Day, honoring the patron saint of the church
These events draw not only parishioners, but also curious travelers and culture lovers.
– Beautiful Choir and Sacred Music: Known for its excellent acoustics, the church often features live choir performances during Mass. The hymns echo softly under the tall ceiling, creating a truly moving experience even for non-Catholics.
– Open to All Faiths: You don’t need to be religious to visit. The church welcomes everyone — whether you’re seeking peace, cultural insight, or a quiet moment in your travel day.
How to Visit St. Anthony Ham Long Church
– Location: 21 Ham Long Street, Phan Chu Trinh Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
Located right in the city center, it’s just a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake and the French Quarter. The area is easy to reach by car, motorbike, or even on foot if you’re staying nearby.
– Mass Schedule
- Weekdays:
- Morning: 5:30 AM (6:00 AM in winter)
- Evening: 7:00 PM (except Monday and Friday)
- Saturday:
- Evening: 7:00 PM
- Evening: 7:00 PM
- Sunday:
- Morning: 6:00 AM and 8:30 AM (children’s Mass)
- Afternoon: 5:00 PM (youth Mass) and 7:00 PM
– Entry Fee
- Free of charge
- Visitors are welcome, but please stay quiet and respectful, especially during Mass.
– Dress Code
- Please wear modest clothing:
- No sleeveless shirts
- No short skirts or shorts
- Avoid flashy or noisy accessories
– How to Get There
- By foot: Just a 10-minute walk from Hoan Kiem Lake
- By Grab/Taxi: Very affordable and convenient in Hanoi
- By public bus: Buses along Hai Ba Trung or Ly Thuong Kiet will stop nearby
What to Do Around the Church
- Walk to Hoan Kiem Lake (10 minutes)
- A peaceful stroll to Hoan Kiem Lake is the perfect next stop.
- Visit Ngoc Son Temple on the small island, take photos by the iconic The Huc Bridge, or simply relax on a bench and watch life go by.
- Early morning and late afternoon are the best times to enjoy the cool breeze and local energy.
- Visit the Hanoi Opera House (7 minutes)
- Just a few blocks away, this French colonial landmark is a must-see for lovers of architecture and the arts.
- If you’re lucky, catch a live performance or check out the exhibition hall inside.
- Even without a ticket, the building is stunning from the outside and a great photo spot.
- Explore Trang Tien Book Street & Art Galleries
- Head to Trang Tien Street, a local favorite for books, art, and stationery.
- Visit bookstores, handmade gift shops, or stop at a local art gallery to see works by Vietnamese artists.
- This area is ideal for those who enjoy quiet cultural browsing.
- Try Local Coffee in a Hidden Café
- Near the church are several cozy cafés where you can rest and reflect after your visit.
- Some great nearby choices:
- Cong Café (Church Street) – vintage military-themed with coconut coffee
- Tranquil Books & Coffee – a peaceful space filled with books and gentle music
- Runam Bistro – for a more upscale coffee and dessert experience
- Enjoy Authentic Hanoi Street Food
- Walk along Ham Long or Ly Thuong Kiet Street to find local eats:
Conclusion
St. Anthony Ham Long Church isn’t just a place of worship — it’s a quiet corner of Hanoi where history, architecture, and community come together. Its warm, welcoming space offers travelers a break from the noise of the city, and a chance to connect with the deeper spiritual and cultural layers of Vietnam. Whether you’re a curious tourist, a lover of architecture, or someone simply looking for peace, this hidden gem deserves a spot on your Hanoi itinerary.
Want to experience a different side of Hanoi? Take a short walk off the beaten path and explore the serenity of St. Anthony Ham Long Church — one of the city’s most soulful and underrated landmarks. Save this place for your next visit and follow VNITourist for more authentic cultural spots in Vietnam.
