The pink church in Ho Chi Minh City visitors love to photograph is called Tan Dinh Church. Located on Hai Ba Trung Street in District 3, it was built in 1876 and remains one of the oldest Catholic churches in Vietnam. Its vivid color and French colonial design make it one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks.
But beyond its appearance, Tan Dinh Church is a living part of the neighborhood. Mass is still held daily, and many locals stop by for quiet reflection or a moment of peace. This guide will help you explore its history, architecture, and the quiet details that keep this pink church rooted in daily life.
Why is Tan Dinh Church pink?
Tan Dinh Church wasn’t always pink. When it was first built during the French colonial period, its walls were painted in soft, neutral tones like many European-style buildings of that time. The pink color we see today came later, during a renovation in 1957.
The choice of pink was intentional. It reflected the joy and spirit of the Catholic community in Saigon and brought a sense of warmth to the church’s appearance. In some Christian traditions, pink is also associated with hope and celebration during specific liturgical seasons. Over time, the color deepened and became a defining feature of the church’s identity.
For locals, the color is not just decorative. It reminds them of community gatherings, festive masses, and a sense of continuity through changing times.
The history of Tan Dinh Church
Tan Dinh Church in Ho Chi Minh City has over 150 years of Catholic heritage and community care. Built in the French colonial era, it has remained one of the oldest active Catholic churches in Vietnam.
Origins story
Tan Dinh Church, formally known as the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, was established during the French colonial period in Vietnam. The church’s history began in 1874 under the guidance of Father Donatien Éveillard, a French missionary who arrived in Saigon in 1860. Recognizing the need for a place of worship for the growing Catholic community, Father Éveillard initiated the construction of the church, which was officially inaugurated in December 1876.
Beyond serving as a religious center, Father Éveillard also focused on social welfare. In 1877, he invited the Sisters of Saint Paul of Chartres to establish an orphanage and boarding school adjacent to the church, known as Sainte Enfance de Tan Dinh. By the early 1880s, this institution provided shelter and education to approximately 300 underprivileged children.
Father Éveillard’s dedication to the community was profound. Upon his death on September 15, 1883, he was interred in front of the altar of Our Lady within Tan Dinh Church, symbolizing his enduring connection to the parish he helped build.
Transformation through time
As the congregation grew and the original structures aged, significant renovations were undertaken to accommodate the expanding community. Between 1896 and 1898, under the leadership of Father Louis-Eugène Louvet, the church underwent major reconstruction. This project, costing 8,600 piastres (approximately 22,000 Francs), included the rebuilding of the church and associated facilities to better serve the parishioners.
In the late 1920s, further enhancements were made under Father Jean-Baptiste Nguyễn Bá Tòng, the first Vietnamese bishop of Indochina. These renovations aimed to preserve the church’s Romanesque-Gothic architectural style while reinforcing its structural integrity.
In 1957, the church received its now-iconic pink repaint, marking a visual shift that later defined its identity. While the full story behind this color is explained above, this change became one of the most memorable chapters in the church’s transformation.
Today, Tan Dinh Church stands not only as a place of worship but also as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of the Catholic community in Ho Chi Minh City. Its rich history and striking architecture continue to attract both the faithful and tourists, making it a cherished landmark in the city’s cultural and spiritual landscape.
A look at Tan Dinh Church’s architecture
At first glance, Tan Dinh Church is striking for its pink façade, but its architecture rewards a second look. Blending Romanesque foundations with French Gothic influence, the church was built with remarkable attention to detail during the colonial era.
Exterior
The first thing you’ll notice is the main bell tower reaching up to 52.6 meters. At the top sits a bronze cross, while inside, five heavy bells rest in silence until they ring out during mass. On each side, smaller towers are decorated with floral motifs, fish-scale tiles, and colorful stained-glass windows.
The pink façade is trimmed in white, with arched windows and detailed carvings that give the church a fairy-tale look. Many visitors compare it to something from a storybook, especially in the morning light. For great photos, cross the street or sit at a nearby café for a wider view.
Interior
Inside, the church becomes quieter and more refined. Stone columns line the central aisle, each topped with European-style statues of saints. The high vaulted ceilings create a space that feels both open and sacred.
Step inside, and the mood shifts into something calm and sacred. The high ceiling, pointed arches, and symmetrical layout create a space that feels open yet intimate. Two rows of stone columns line the main aisle, each crowned with statues of saints that have quietly stood there for generations.
The side altars are carved from Italian marble, detailed with religious artwork that reflects deep-rooted Catholic traditions. If you take a moment to look up, you’ll notice the soft lighting dancing across the ceiling. It’s a detail many miss, but it adds a gentle magic to the space.
Tan Dinh Church isn’t just beautiful on the outside. Its architecture invites you to slow down, look closer, and feel the quiet soul of a place that has welcomed generations of worshippers and travelers alike.
How to plan your visit to Tan Dinh Church
Tan Dinh Church mass schedule (2025 Update)
- Monday to 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
These Masses are held in Vietnamese and are open to everyone. While there is no English-language Mass at Tan Dinh Church, other churches such as Notre-Dame Cathedral in District 1 may offer English services on weekends.
To confirm the latest times, you can visit Tan Dinh Church’s official page.
Can tourists go inside Tan Dinh Church?
You can enter the church freely during non-Mass hours, usually from 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM. No ticket or guide is required. It’s best to come during these windows for a peaceful experience and the chance to explore without disturbing worshippers.
What not to do inside Tan Dinh Church
Tan Dinh Church is one of the most photographed places in Ho Chi Minh City, but for locals, it is first and foremost a sacred space. If you plan to go inside, it helps to understand a few basic guidelines to show respect.
- Do not take photos during Mass. Even though the interior is beautiful, taking pictures while people are praying is disruptive. Avoid using your phone, and especially do not use flash.
- Avoid loud conversations. The church is often quiet inside. Keep your voice low and speak softly if needed. Many locals come here for peace, not noise.
- Do not wear revealing clothes. Sleeveless tops, short skirts, or tank tops are not appropriate inside the church. Light and comfortable clothing is fine, but it should cover your shoulders and knees.
- Stay in public areas only. Do not walk behind the altar or into side rooms unless invited. These spaces are used by clergy and church staff.
- Don’t bring food or drinks. Finish your snacks and drinks before entering.
These simple gestures show respect for the people who come here to worship. Following them allows you to experience the pink church in a more thoughtful and connected way.
How to get there
Tan Dinh Church is located on Hai Ba Trung Street in District 3, not far from the center of Ho Chi Minh City. You can get there in a few easy ways:
- Ride-hailing apps: Use Grab, Be, or Xanh SM to book a motorbike or car. These apps are available in English and work similarly to Uber, making them simple for travelers to use.
- Walking: If your hotel is in District 1 or the edge of District 3, a 15 to 20-minute walk will take you straight to the church. The route is safe and easy to follow.
- Cycling tour: Many visitors also stop at the pink church Ho Chi Minh City as part of Tour De Saigon, a guided cycling tour that includes many of the city’s cultural landmarks.
How to make your visit to Tan Dinh Church more meaningful
Visit during Catholic holidays
Tan Dinh Church is beautiful throughout the year, but during Catholic holidays, it feels more alive. These are the times when the pink church in Ho Chi Minh City becomes more than a landmark. It becomes a part of the city’s shared celebration and spiritual rhythm.
During the Christmas season in Vietnam, the pink church is adorned with festive decorations, including strings of colorful lights and elaborate nativity scenes. The atmosphere is lively, attracting both locals and tourists who come to admire the decorations and participate in the celebrations. Special masses are held, and the surrounding streets are often filled with food stalls and vendors selling holiday treats.
Easter at Tan Dinh Church is marked by solemn and reflective services, including special masses and community gatherings. The church becomes a focal point for worshippers who come to commemorate this significant event in the Christian calendar. While the celebrations are more subdued compared to Christmas, they offer a profound spiritual experience for attendees.
Experiencing Tan Dinh Church during these holidays offers a deeper appreciation of its role in the community and provides a memorable addition to your visit to Ho Chi Minh City.
Talk to a local
Some stories around Tan Dinh Church don’t appear on guidebooks. They live in the quiet things people say as they pass by, or the way they glance up at the tower before starting their day. The easiest way to hear these stories is to go with someone who knows.
Jackfruit’s Tour de Saigon is a cycling experience that brings you closer to this side of the city. Instead of rushing from one place to another, you pedal at a relaxed pace, stop for iced coffee at a local spot, and hear what each building means to those who grew up nearby.
The tour includes Tan Dinh Church but does not stop there. You’ll ride through leafy streets and explore other iconic landmarks like Notre-Dame Cathedral, Independence Palace, and Turtle Lake. With every stop, you get a little more than directions. You get a connection.
Bring home a meaningful souvenir
For many travelers, photos are the only thing they bring home from Tan Dinh Church. But if you’re looking for something more personal, there are quiet souvenirs that reflect the spirit of this place.
You can sometimes find miniature models of the pink church in Ho Chi Minh City at small local shops. These handcrafted pieces, often made from wood or paper, are carefully painted to look just like the real Tan Dinh Church. They’re not always on display, so it’s best to ask local sellers in the area or check if they take online orders. Most of these items are made by Saigon locals, which makes them meaningful souvenirs to bring home.
Things to do near Tan Dinh Church
After visiting Tan Dinh Church, many travelers wonder where to go next. The area around the pink church is full of small, local experiences that offer a deeper look into daily life in Ho Chi Minh City. These are not major tourist attractions, but they are some of the most authentic things to do in Ho Chi Minh City.
Tan Dinh Market
- Address: 336 Hai Bà Trưng, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Right next to the church, Tan Dinh Market is a local favorite. You can try dishes like bún bò or chè, buy tropical fruit, or browse fabrics in bright colors. It is noisy, friendly, and full of the everyday energy that defines Saigon markets.
Nguyen Van Nguyen street
Take a short walk to Nguyen Van Nguyen Street and you’ll find a peaceful corner for coffee in District 1. Many cafés and local food shops here are hidden behind old gates, with wooden chairs and slow music. It is where locals go to pause with a strong iced coffee or warm soy milk.
Nguyen Van Binh Book Street
If you’re looking for a quieter place to pause, this tree-lined street filled with bookshops and cafés is a gentle retreat. Grab a Vietnamese coffee, browse through shelves of travel books or art prints, and enjoy a few peaceful minutes before continuing your day.
Take a free piano session at Sunny Days Piano
- Address: 21 Đặng Dung, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
If you are looking for free things to do near Tan Dinh Church, this small piano studio is worth a visit. At Sunny Days Piano, you can join free classes with friendly teachers, even if you’re a complete beginner. It’s a quiet and fun way to try something new during your trip.
Make your own cartoon keychain at Veene Land
- Address: 38 Đặng Tất, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Veene Land is a creative spot where you can turn your own cartoon drawing into a keychain. Locals love it, and visitors often come here looking for a unique souvenir in Ho Chi Minh that’s fun and personal. You leave with something made by you, not just bought off a shelf.
Browse English books at Fahasha Tan Dinh
- Address: 389 Hai Bà Trưng, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Fahasha Tan Dinh is one of the largest English bookstores in Ho Chi Minh City. It offers both Vietnamese and international titles, plus notebooks, stationery, and thoughtful gifts. It’s a cool, quiet place to take a break and pick up something meaningful.
Looking for more hidden gems in the city? Check out our guide to things to do in District 1.
Explore more than just the pink church with Jackfruit Adventure
Tan Dinh Church might be the first place you fall in love with in Saigon. The pink walls, the soft morning bells, and the gentle quiet that feels out of place in a fast-moving city make this pink church in Ho Chi Minh City easy to remember. But beyond the photographs and postcards, the city still holds stories that are meant to be felt, not just seen.
Saigon reveals itself in the alleyways where neighbors joke like family, in the scent of incense rising from hidden temples tucked behind old walls, and in bowls of chè shared on plastic stools by the roadside. You won’t find these moments on a typical route. But you might, on a slow ride through the streets with Jackfruit’s cycling tour in Ho Chi Minh City. It is more than visiting iconic spots like Tan Dinh Church or the Notre-Dame Cathedral. It is a chance to discover hidden gems in Ho Chi Minh City and experience what to do in Saigon like a local.
If you’re looking for more things to do near Tan Dinh Church or want to explore District 3 Saigon, let the road open slowly under your wheels. We’ll take you to morning markets, backstreet coffee shops, and the quiet spaces between the headlines. These are the places that make this city feel like home. When you’re ready, we’re here to ride with you.
