Exploring St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi with Smile Travel

Besides sacred temples, Hanoi, Vietnam also has many different large and small churches. When arriving in Hanoi, visitors will have countless destinations to choose from, and especially, do not miss Hanoi Cathedral. Up to now, St. Joseph’s Cathedral has always been a famous and favorite place for both domestic and international tourists. So let’s learn about Hanoi Cathedral with Smile Travel.

Read more: Best quality and reputable travel agency in Hanoi

Exploring St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi together!

1. Some details about St. Joseph’s Cathedral 

St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi, hundreds of years old, is a symbol of the city and the place where many important events of the Hanoi Catholic community take place. Coming here, visitors will admire a typical European medieval Gothic architecture and learn about the history of formation and development of the church.

With a geographical location at 40 Nha Chung, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, right at the intersection of 3 major streets: Nha Tho, Ly Quoc Su and Nha Chung, the Church’s official name is the Main Church. St. Joseph’s Cathedral is the Catholic church with the oldest history in Hanoi. With its unique Western architecture and rich history, this place has become a place for religious activities of the people of Hanoi Capital and neighboring provinces, especially when it becomes one of the tourist attractions in Hanoi. The most attractive sightseeing trip in the journey to discover the beauty of Hanoi.

In 1884, the Cathedral was designed and construction began by Bishop Puginier. By 1887, it was completed and inaugurated on Christmas. To this day, patches of green moss have appeared on the walls of the Church, proving that the imprint of time has been imprinted on the church. Through many rains and suns, the church still stands solemnly and firmly there. and still leaves good impressions on many tourists.

Opening hours for sightseeing and ceremonies at the Cathedral:

Hanoi Cathedral is open free of charge to visitors all days of the week. From Monday to Saturday, the church will welcome guests from 8:00 am – 11:00 am and 2:00 pm – 8:00 pm. On Sundays, visitors can visit from 7:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m. or 3:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m.

The church has a mass program on both weekdays and Saturdays and Sundays. From Monday to Saturday, the ceremony will take place at 5:30 and 18:00. On Sunday, the Cathedral will have more service times, including:

• French Mass: 5:00 a.m., 7:00 a.m., 8:30 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.
• English ceremony: 11:30 a.m.
• Children’s ceremony: 4pm.
• Youth ceremony: 6:00 p.m. and 8:00 p.m.

2. Discover the uniqueness of the Cathedral’s architecture

Through many ups and downs and upheavals of history, St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi is still there, becoming a “historical witness” watching the changes of this land. Today, the Cathedral is an attractive place for parishioners when visiting the capital, and has also become a memorable destination in the heart of Hanoi for many tourists from near and far.

Built during the years of French colonial rule, the Cathedral is truly a typical architectural work, representing the Gothic style of Europe and like a miniature Notre Dame Cathedral of Paris in Hanoi. The church is 21m wide, 65m long, has 2 bell towers nearly 32m high and fixed with large stone pillars.

The exquisitely designed stone cross is the biggest highlight when entering the church. The entire floor is tiled with terracotta tiles, the walls are plastered with sandpaper, creating an ancient and majestic space. The moss-covered walls are the clearest testament to the hundred-year history of this church.

The main door and windows at Hanoi Cathedral have the arched, pointed design typical of the Gothic style. The high curved dome, dotted with round flower-shaped windows, make the space even more beautiful. The dark colors contrast with the very Vietnamese motifs and images, making the walkway more lively.

The entire church is divided into 3 compartments: the reception hall, the ceremonial sanctuary and the ceremony area. Inside the cathedral there are 3 tombs of Cardinal Trinh Van Can, Cardinal Trinh Nhu Khue and Cardinal Pham Dinh Tung. In the middle of the Sanctuary is a statue of Saint Joseph holding Jesus, on both sides there are altars of the Virgin Mary and many other saints.

3. Experiences not to be missed at St. Joseph’s Cathedral 

Attend ceremonies together at the Cathedral

For those who follow Catholicism, attending mass in St. Joseph’s Cathedral will certainly have important meaning. Or not, if you are a non-Christian, then when you attend Mass, you will be able to better understand the rituals of the ceremony, and listening to the Hymns and offering prayers is also a wonderful experience.

Immerse yourself in the vibrant Christmas atmosphere at the church

Every Christmas, Hanoi Cathedral is decorated more brightly than ever. Streams of people flocked to the church to attend the ceremony, praying for a peaceful and happy Christmas season. For those who are not religious, they also gather here to admire the warm, sparkling Christmas atmosphere with pine trees, grottos, colorful electric lights…

Take check-in photos with the Cathedral background

The image taken in front of Hanoi Cathedral has become a sign to everyone that you have just visited the capital. Whether it’s a sunny day or a cold winter, the Cathedral still attracts a large number of young people to visit and take “virtual life” photos. If you have the opportunity to visit the Capital, don’t forget to save for yourself a set of “super quality” photos with this famous place!

Enjoy lemon tea, egg coffee and sticky rice at the Cathedral

I don’t know when, lemon tea or a fragrant cup of coffee has become a ‘specialty’ in front of Hanoi Cathedral. Sometimes, simply sitting and drinking tea, admiring the scenery and chatting together feels wonderful. If in the past, the ancient banyan tree next to the church was a sign of recognition for the church and a meeting place for tourists, then after Typhoon Yagi landed in Hanoi in September, the banyan tree has collapsed, which is a regret for many tourists.

Walk around Hoan Kiem Lake

To end the journey to explore Hanoi Cathedral, visitors can stop by Hoan Kiem Lake to walk, admire the scenery, and enjoy cool ice cream on the lakeside. The distance from the church to Hoan Kiem Lake is not far, so if you have plenty of time, please stop by. 

On weekends, the walking streets around Hoan Kiem Lake become vibrant with entertainment activities, attracting both locals and tourists. Outstanding activities include music events, volunteer programs, outdoor shows…

4. How to get to St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi?

The Cathedral is located right at the intersection of Nha Tho, Nha Chung and Ly Quoc Su streets so it is quite easy to find. Tourists who want to visit Hanoi Cathedral can choose personal vehicles or take a taxi or grab. Additionally, you can also get here by the following bus routes:

• Bus route to Hoan Kiem Lake: visitors can catch bus numbers: 09, 14 or 36 to get to Hoan Kiem Lake, then follow Hang Trong Street, turn left onto Cathedral Street to get there. Hanoi Cathedral.
• Bus route to Trieu Quoc Dat street: you take bus number 01 to Trieu Quoc Dat street, then go straight to Phu Doan street, turn right onto Au Trieu street to reach the Cathedral.
• Bus route to Trang Thi: bus route number 02 will stop at Trang Thi street, from here you just need to go straight and turn right to Phu Doan, from Phu Doan turn right to Au Trieu to reach the Cathedral.

To make sure you don’t get lost, use Google maps on your cell phone to look up directions.

Tourists can refer to some North Vietnam Tours recommended by Smile Travel below:

>> Tour 6D5N in Hanoi – Hoa Lu – Tam Coc – Halong Bay

>> Group North Vietnam Tour: 7D6N Hanoi – Sapa – Halong Bay Cruise 5* – Ninh Binh

>> Tour in Hanoi – Sapa – Halong 5D4N

5. Places to visit near Hanoi Cathedral

• Hoa Lo Prison: about 1.1km.
• Hoan Kiem Lake – Ngoc Son Temple: about 1.5km.
• Hanoi Old Quarter: about 1.6km.
• Imperial Citadel of Thang Long: about 1.8km.
• The Temple of Literature: about 1.9km.
• Vietnam Fine Arts Museum: about 2km.
• Hanoi Opera House: about 2.5km.
• Vietnam National Museum of History: about 2.7km.

Over many years, St. Joseph’s Cathedral Hanoi is not only a religious building but also a valuable work of architectural art. The church has become a symbol of Hanoi, contributing to enriching the city’s architectural picture. You must definitely check-in at Hanoi Cathedral if you have the opportunity to come to our lovely land of Hanoi.

In addition to sharing information about tourist destinations throughout Vietnam, Smile Travel is also proud to be one of the top most prestigious travel companies in Hanoi specializing in organizing package tours for tourists. , especially Muslim guests; Shuttle bus booking services, hotels, restaurants, air tickets,… and commitment to bringing the best quality to tourists. Please contact us immediately via hotline/ WhatsApp: (+84) 941776786 for 24/7 support.

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