Top 6 Most Fascinating Christmas Celebration Spots in Nam Dinh

Bui Chu Church is located in Xuan Ngoc commune, Xuan Truong district, Nam Dinh province. Bui Chu Church was built in 1885 by Bishop Wenceslao Onate Thuan (1884) with a length of 78m, width of 22m, height of 15m, and a tower height of 35m. After more than 136 years, this church still stands with its redwood columns and delicate floral patterns bearing the Western architectural influence.

On the holy arch is the resting place for 7 bishops who once cared for the Bui Chu diocese (Bishop Wenceslao Oñate Thuan, Bishop Pedro Muñagorri Trung, Bishop Dominique Hồ Ngọc Cẩn, Bishop Joseph Phạm Năng Tĩnh, Bishop Dominique Lê Hữu Cung, Bishop Joseph Vũ Duy Nhất, and Bishop Joseph Hoàng Văn Tiệm). Local materials such as bricks and lime are used, making it simple. However, the church has a unique architecture with a Spanish Baroque style, combined with traditional Vietnamese construction methods. The floral patterns depict the harmony of European and Asian architecture.

Bui Chu Cathedral stands out with an ochre color; below are glossy black redwood columns on finely carved stone pillars; above is a vaulted roof in an oval shape, deeply influenced by Baroque architecture but still carrying the elegance of Eastern traditional three gates. At the front of the church is the entrance to the Bui Chu Bishop's Palace, which houses the Clock Tower. This clock, a vintage French clock, was specially produced for Bui Chu Church in 1922.

To create power, the clock uses 3 metal weights, each weighing about 50 kg. The weights move the gears for hourly running, music every 15 minutes, and striking hours. The clock's bell, with a diameter of 1m, is exquisitely carved, and its sound can be heard from 2 to 4 km away. This vintage clock is still running well and is one of the most famous tower clocks in Vietnam today. Bui Chu Church is part of the complex of buildings of the Bui Chu Bishop's Palace. Every year, many tourists come to visit the church and admire its typical architecture, while learning about the history of the Bui Chu diocese.

Khoai Dong Church, also known as Khoi Dong, is located at 127 Le Hong Phong Street, Nam Dinh province. Khoai Dong Church, along with Chanh Toa Church in Da Lat, is the only church in Vietnam dedicated to Saint Nicholas - a saint commonly associated with Santa Claus according to Catholic tradition.

Khoai Dong Church covers an area of 5,800 m2, construction began in 1934 alongside the Holy See Seminary of St. Alberto (now the Nguyen Van Cu Continuing Education Center) and Saint Thomas Pedagogical College (now Nguyen Khuyen High School). The church was built in Gothic architecture, considered one of the most unique architectures in Vietnam, featuring a curved vault supported by a system of gracefully curved cement ribs. On the walls are intricately carved columns depicting saints such as St. Patrick, St. Peter, and St. Joseph...

Despite the ups and downs of history, Khoai Dong Church stands tall with its ancient moss-covered arches, the imposing bell tower in the city center of Nam Dinh. The church has reopened and become a religious activity center for thousands of believers, as well as an unmissable tourist attraction when visitors come to Nam Dinh city. In 1959, due to the war, the church faced challenges, and many churchgoers dispersed. Some assets, furniture, and ritual items were lost. The church bell was placed at Tu Trung parish, Hai Tan commune, Hai Hau district, Nam Dinh city.

During Christmas, the church is adorned with a multitude of colorful lights, creating a festive atmosphere. The stone cave is completed with images of the joyful Child Jesus and saints celebrating. The Christmas tree sparkles with various colored lights. The final touches are being made for the festive night. It will undoubtedly be a wonderful place for young people and tourists nationwide to celebrate Christmas.

The capital city Hanoi has the Opera House, and in the land of the cradle of Catholicism, there is the Nam Dinh Cathedral. The Nam Dinh Cathedral sits on the Quan Ferry, the main facade facing Tran Hung Dao Street. The cathedral bears the distinct architectural imprint of France, simple yet robust, with a touch of sophistication. Originally built around 1895 by French and Italian priests in the Gothic style, the church was heavily damaged by bombing in 1968 and subsequently restored in 1973.

Situated in the heart of Nam Dinh city, the cathedral, though not grandiose, exudes a solemn and serene ambiance. Located on the Quan Ferry, the main facade faces Tran Hung Dao Street, the central thoroughfare of Nam Dinh City. In front of the church is a spacious square with a flower basin, a metal statue of Mother Mary, a procession yard, and a parade route. Despite its modest size, the cathedral has long been regarded as the center of the Catholic faith in Nam Dinh City, hosting various major religious events.

When in Nam Dinh, you cannot miss visiting this ancient Cathedral. During Christmas each year, the Nam Dinh Cathedral adorns its Christmas Caves as a symbol of the festive season, beautifully decorating them. These caves not only contribute to the vibrant and colorful atmosphere of the celebration but also vividly depict the special story of the birth of Jesus Christ. The figure, a symbol of love and the incarnation of God, arrived in the world in a humble manger amid the freezing winter sky.

St. Peter's Church is located in Hai Hau province. Established in 1716 and having undergone two relocations to its current position. These days, St. Peter's Church is livelier than ever, just a small step and you seem to step into another land with the decorated lights, Christmas Caves, and unique sculptures displayed here. St. Peter's is also one of the oldest churches in Hai Hau district. Despite its relocations, it has not lost its ancient charm, capturing the hearts of visitors from all directions. Visiting this church, you can experience a warm and joyful Christmas season with the locals.

This church is also one of the oldest in Hai Hau district with two relocations. However, St. Peter's Church has not lost its ancient charm, captivating visitors from all directions. Visiting St. Peter's, tourists can enjoy a warm and joyful Christmas with the local people.

Within the church grounds is a prayer house serving as a place for the Holy Eucharist, encouraging all members of the parish to strive to live with strong faith and enthusiasm for God and fellow human beings. Additionally, the church is served by the Sisters of the Order of Bui Chu, founded by Bishop Dominique Ho Ngoc Canh, the first Order of Bui Chu established according to canon law.

Hưng Nghĩa Church in Hai Hung commune, Hai Hau district, Nam Dinh province will leave you in awe. It feels like standing in front of a majestic and splendid castle adorned with intricate, elaborate details. Among the largest and most beautiful churches in Nam Dinh, Hưng Nghĩa Church boasts Gothic architecture, exuding a deep classical allure. Viewed from a distance, the holy edifice shines like a dazzling fortress. Constructed in 1927, the church faced weather-induced deterioration. Subsequently, a restoration project commenced in 2000 and was inaugurated in 2007. This church can be referred to with a name of luxury and splendor, with its exquisite and meticulous design, reminiscent of Hogwarts School in the Harry Potter film series.

Though constructed in 1927, Hưng Nghĩa Church experienced deterioration due to weather conditions. A restoration project began in 2000 and concluded in 2007. The church, with its opulent and radiant design, featuring intricate details, can be likened to the Hogwarts School from the Harry Potter series. It stands as a remarkable destination for Christmas celebrations for the Catholic community in Hai Hau district and serves as a picturesque wedding venue. Capture your memories at this extraordinary place during this upcoming Christmas season! Inside the cathedral, the altar dedicated to Jesus is situated beneath a vaulted design with transparent stained glass windows to allow natural light into the sanctuary. Nam Dinh, while lacking the grandeur of majestic mountains and landscapes found in other regions, boasts its unique cultural and architectural gems.

This Christmas season, Hưng Nghĩa Church adorns itself with a special appearance featuring a giant Christmas tree and a garden of flowers depicting the birth of Jesus. The decorations include oversized Christmas tree models, caves made of stone, and twinkling lights illuminating a corner of the sky.

Hải Lý Ruined Church in Hai Hau district is an ideal destination for travelers far and wide. This coastal church boasts French and Spanish architectural influences. Originally, the church's architecture was meticulously designed, beautiful, and robust with soft, graceful vaults supporting the entire structure. Upon close inspection, you'll notice intricate depictions on every wall, portraying religious symbols and aspirations for a beautiful, happy life. Though not fully preserved, it possesses an irresistibly captivating allure for visitors. Consider a short beach trip this Christmas to Hải Lý Ruined Church in Hai Hau. It's undoubtedly a fascinating and romantic spot you shouldn't miss this Christmas.

Another highlight is the local experience. While there are no guesthouse services, visitors can stay with local fishermen. The people of Hai Hau, especially in Nam Dinh, are friendly, gentle, and hospitable. Don't worry about accommodations; you can completely 'stay with' local residents. In the early morning, the locals rise early to work and make a living. If you wake up early to enjoy the beauty, you'll witness the untouched charm alongside the industrious, simple, and cheerful life of hardworking people amidst peaceful nature. You'll undoubtedly feel a unique and rare emotion, unlike any other place. Additionally, at the ruined church, there are numerous fish sauce fermentation pits. Visitors can buy seafood right on the beach and ask locals to cook and enjoy it on the sandy shore. In the evening, tourists can savor the refreshing, cool sea breeze.