The religious landscape of Ho Chi Minh City gets an extra splash of color from the vibrant Tan Dinh Church. This place draws tourists not only for its eye-catching, photogenic color but also for its architectural and historical significance. Let’s explore this fascinating landmark together and pick up a few tips for making the most of your visit!
A brief history of Tan Dinh Church
Tan Dinh Church is one of the earliest religious buildings constructed in what was once the wealthiest, most bustling part of Saigon. Groundbreaking took place in 1870, and the church was completed and inaugurated in 1876. At that time, the church’s priest, Father Donatien, invited nuns to set up an orphanage and boarding school next to the church. In less than five years, the school had enrolled 300 children. Not only did Father Donatien provide shelter and education for the orphaned kids, but he also established a religious publishing house and taught printing skills so the children could work and support themselves. This was considered one of his most significant and meaningful accomplishments at the parish church of Tan Dinh. Due to his charitable contributions, when Father Donatien passed away in 1880, he was buried in the church’s crypt, and his tombstone remains there today.
Over the following years, Tan Dinh Church underwent several renovations, including the addition of two colonnades with magnificent pillars in 1896 and the construction of the bell tower in 1926. Not long after, the church was gifted three marble altars by local parishioners François Haasz and his wife Anne Tong Thi Muc. These exquisite reliefs are still regarded as valuable artifacts, both artistically and historically.
A memorable milestone came in 1957 during a major restoration when the church was repainted in a stunning pink color, with white trim. Since then, even after multiple touch-ups, the church has kept its signature pink hue, now with a subtle orange tint to better blend in with its surroundings. The blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural elements, paired with that signature pink color, makes this religious building irresistibly charming.
Tan Dinh Church visiting hours & mass times
Visiting hours
Monday – Friday:
- Morning: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM
- Afternoon: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Evening: 8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Saturday: Closed to visitors from 12:00 PM onward.
Sunday: Closed to visitors all day.
Visitors are not allowed inside during mass times.
Allowed visiting & photography area: From the entrance gate up to the restricted notice.
Mass times
Monday – Saturday: 5:00 AM, 6:15 AM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM.
Sunday: 5:00 AM, 6:15 AM, 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM, 7:00 PM.
How to get to Tan Dinh Church
Tan Dinh Church is located at 283 Hai Ba Trung Street, District 3. This is a busy, densely populated area, so we recommend walking or using ride-hailing apps to avoid any hassle with parking.
Walking
Walking is the most exciting way to get there because the area around Tan Dinh Church is super interesting. You can stop by Tan Dinh Market right across the street from the church, check out the colorful fabric shops and traditional Ao Dai stores, or snap some photos of the church from afar. Plus, walking helps you avoid traffic jams right in front of the church.
Bus
Taking the bus is the cheapest option to get to the church. Since it’s on a main road, there are plenty of bus lines passing by or stopping near Tan Dinh Church. Popular bus routes include numbers 01, 03, and 04, which you can hop on from pretty much anywhere in the city center.
Motorbike
A motorbike is the quickest way to get around, as it can zip through traffic and weave through Saigon’s narrow alleys, giving you a real taste of local life. You can use apps like Xanh SM, Grab, or Be to book a ride.
Taxi
Taxis are definitely the most comfortable and safest option, especially if you want to avoid worrying about the weather. Of course, taxis are pricier, but at least you can check the fare on the app before booking.
Things to do at Tan Dinh Church
Admire the architecture of Tan Dinh Church
Tan Dinh Church is a striking example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture, with its iconic pink hue that sets it apart from other churches in the city, if not the entire country. Take time to appreciate the details of the church’s facade, the towering bell towers, and the graceful arches. The best time to marvel at this pink-hued grandeur is at sunset, around 4-6 PM, when the golden hour casts sweet and dazzling light on the landmark, like a sweet cake coated in glistening honey.
Attend a mass at the church
If you’d like to experience Tan Dinh Church in its full religious setting, attending a mass is a meaningful way to do so. The church holds regular services where you can observe the local Catholic traditions and connect with the community here. Check the mass schedule on the official Tan Dinh Parish website.
Check out the centuries-old artifacts
When visiting inside the church, don’t miss the fascinating religious artifacts, including marble altars and intricate carvings donated by the parishioners. Also, pay a visit to the tombstone of Father Donatien, who played a significant role in setting up and operating Tan Dinh Parish from the earliest days.
Snap some Instagrammable photos with the Church
Whether you’re a professional photographer or just looking to capture a memorable moment, the vibrant pink exterior and symmetrical interior of the church offer one of the most photogenic backdrops and plenty of picturesque angles. Get creative with the bustling street life around the church for a more dynamic shot.
Practical Tips
- Across from the church, you’ll find Cong Ca Phe and Ola Hale Restaurant & Bar, where large glass windows let you admire the church while sipping on a refreshing coconut coffee or a sunset cocktail.
- If you’re interested in exploring old religious publications and printing tools from the Imprimerie de la Mission, visit the Museum of the Saint Joseph Seminary at 6 Ton Duc Thang Street.
- Tan Dinh Market, located diagonally across from the church, is a great stop for local snacks and drinks.
- Be mindful of your belongings, as the area outside the church can get quite busy.
That signature pink hue has become a hallmark of Tan Dinh Church, making it a must-see spot not only for Catholic worshippers but also for anyone who loves architecture and photography. We wish you an unforgettable experience at Tan Dinh Church! Don’t forget to share your stunning photos with the travel community in our Welcome to Vietnam Facebook group!
