Visiting temples is not only a beautiful cultural tradition but also a way to find inner peace. The temples in Ho Chi Minh City are renowned not only for their spiritual significance but also for their historical and architectural value. Let’s explore some of the most remarkable temples that you should not miss when visiting this vibrant city.
1. Jade Emperor Pagoda – A Sacred Temple in the Heart of the City
Located in bustling District 1, the Jade Emperor Pagoda, also known as Phuoc Hai Temple, is one of the most sacred and famous temples in Ho Chi Minh City. Built in 1892 by the Chinese community, this temple showcases traditional architectural elements, featuring ornate tiled roofs, intricate carvings, and a serene atmosphere.
Unique Architecture and Spiritual Ambience
As you step into the temple, you will immediately be captivated by its mystical ambiance—the lingering scent of incense, intricately carved Buddhist statues, and mural paintings reflecting a blend of Vietnamese and Chinese culture.
The temple is built in classical Chinese style, characterized by curved tiled roofs, dragon and phoenix motifs on columns, and a tranquil lotus pond. At the heart of the main hall stands a statue of the Jade Emperor (Ngọc Hoàng Đại Đế), the celestial ruler in Taoist beliefs.
Other Worship Areas Within the Temple
Aside from the main hall, the temple has several other sacred altars:
- Kim Hoa Thanh Mau Shrine – where visitors pray for fertility and children.
- Guan Yin (Avalokiteshvara) Hall – symbolizing compassion and protection.
- God of Wealth Shrine – attracting business owners and traders seeking prosperity.
A Famous Temple for Love and Fertility Prayers
Beyond being a spiritual sanctuary, Jade Emperor Pagoda is also widely known as a place to pray for love and marriage. Many young people visit the temple during Tet (Lunar New Year) and special occasions, hoping to find their soulmate.
Additionally, married couples struggling with infertility often come here to pray for children, believing in the sacred blessings of the deities.
The temple gained international recognition in 2016 when former U.S. President Barack Obama visited during his trip to Vietnam. His visit brought global attention to the temple, further establishing it as a must-visit cultural and spiritual landmark in Ho Chi Minh City.
- Address: 73 Mai Thi Luu, District. 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
2. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda – A Northern Vietnam-Inspired Temple
Located on the bustling Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is one of the largest temples in Ho Chi Minh City, showcasing traditional Northern Vietnamese architecture. The pagoda was built in 1964 by Venerable Thich Tam Giac and Venerable Thich Thanh Kiem, inspired by the famous Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda in Bac Giang Province.
Ancient and Majestic Architecture
Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda features classic Vietnamese temple architecture, with curved tiled roofs, sturdy pillars, and intricate carvings. One of its most impressive structures is the seven-story Avalokiteshvara Tower, considered one of the most remarkable Buddhist landmarks in Ho Chi Minh City.
The grand Tam Quan gate (Three-Entrance Gate) stands tall with a dignified design, symbolizing the fusion of Northern and Southern Vietnamese Buddhist culture.
The pagoda is divided into several worship areas, each with its own spiritual significance:
- Main Hall – Dedicated to Shakyamuni Buddha, where Buddhists come to offer incense and pray.
- Relic Tower (Xa Loi Tower) – Houses the sacred relics of revered Buddhist monks.
- Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva Hall – Symbolizing compassion and protection for all beings.
A Buddhist Center and Charitable Activities
Beyond being a place of worship, Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda serves as an important Buddhist center, regularly hosting meditation retreats, Dharma talks, and charitable activities. Every year, the pagoda organizes various programs to support the poor, distribute donations, and help those in need.
During major Buddhist festivals such as Vu Lan (Ghost Festival) and Buddha’s Birthday (Vesak), the pagoda attracts thousands of visitors who come to participate in prayer ceremonies, lantern releases, and chanting sessions.
A Mesmerizing Beauty at Night
At night, the pagoda takes on a magical aura, with golden lights reflecting off the ancient rooftops and sacred statues. This is an ideal time for visitors to admire the serene beauty of the temple and experience a sense of inner peace.
- Address: 339 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
3. Buu Long Pagoda – A Unique Thai-Style Temple in the Heart of Saigon
Located about 20 km from downtown Ho Chi Minh City, Buu Long Pagoda is one of the most architecturally stunning temples in the city. It captivates visitors with its majestic Thai-style design. Originally built in 1942, the temple was renovated and expanded in 2007, becoming a renowned spiritual destination that blends Southern Theravāda Buddhist culture with Eastern architectural beauty.
A Distinctive Southern Theravāda Buddhist Architecture
The most striking feature of Bửu Long Pagoda is the Gotama Cetiya Stupa, towering 56 meters high. It is often referred to as “The Thai Temple of Saigon” due to its brilliant golden and pure white color scheme. The stupa creates a breathtaking scene, especially when illuminated by the morning sun or during sunset.
Unlike many Vietnamese temples that worship Amitabha Buddha or Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, Bửu Long Pagoda follows the Southern Theravāda Buddhist tradition, venerating only Shakyamuni Buddha. This highlights its commitment to original Buddhist teachings, providing a tranquil space for meditation and spiritual practice.
A Serene Atmosphere and Picturesque Scenery
Perched on a small hill, Bửu Long Pagoda is surrounded by lush green trees and crystal-clear lakes, creating a peaceful and otherworldly ambiance. Its spacious courtyard, with stone-paved pathways, resting benches, and designated meditation areas, offers visitors a chance to rediscover inner balance.
From the upper floors of the stupa, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Thu Duc City and breathe in the fresh air, providing a stark contrast to the hustle and bustle of central Saigon.
A Perfect Destination for Photography and Pilgrimage
Beyond being a sacred site, Bửu Long Pagoda attracts numerous visitors and photographers thanks to its one-of-a-kind architecture. Stunning photo spots include the Gotama Cetiya Stupa and the emerald-green lake in front of the temple, both of which provide a picturesque backdrop for breathtaking photographs.
- Address: 81 Nguyen Xien, Long Binh Ward, Thu Duc City, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
4. Thien Hau Temple – A Sacred Worship Site for the Chinese Community in Saigon
Located in the heart of Cholon (Saigon’s Chinatown), Thien Hau Temple is one of the oldest and most sacred temples in Ho Chi Minh City. This temple is not only a significant pilgrimage site for the Chinese community but also a valuable cultural and historical heritage.
A Long History and Spiritual Significance
Thien Hau Temple was built in 1760 by a group of Cantonese Chinese immigrants, dedicated to Mazu (Thien Hau Thanh Mau) – a goddess believed to protect sailors and merchants on sea voyages. Over 260 years later, the temple has preserved its original architecture and spiritual atmosphere, attracting thousands of locals and tourists for worship and sightseeing.
Distinctive Chinese Architectural Style
Unlike many Vietnamese temples, Thien Hau Temple features a traditional Chinese architectural style, with an imposing three-gate entrance, curved tiled roofs, and intricately carved reliefs.
Inside, the temple houses multiple altars, with the main shrine dedicated to Thien Hau. Her statue, carved from agarwood, has a gentle yet authoritative expression. On either side stand the statues of Kim Hoa Nuong Nuong and Long Mau Nuong Nuong, deities who protect women and children.
Additionally, the temple includes altars for the God of Wealth, Guan Gong (Guan Yu), and other deities worshipped in Chinese folk beliefs.
Grand Festivals and Prayer Rituals
Every year, on the 23rd day of the 3rd lunar month, the temple holds its largest annual festival, celebrating Thien Hau’s birthday. During this event, thousands of devotees participate in parades, incense offerings, and prayers for peace.
Not only the Chinese community but also many Vietnamese and international visitors come to the temple to pray for wealth, peace, and career success. The temple is especially famous for its sky lantern ritual and prayer offerings, which many believe bring good fortune.
A Mystical Atmosphere with Giant Incense Coils
One of the most iconic features of Thien Hau Temple is its large incense coils hanging from the ceiling. These massive incense spirals burn for several days, carrying the prayers and wishes of worshippers. This unique sight is a must-see for anyone visiting the temple.
- Address: 710 Nguyen Trai, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM
5. Ong Temple
Ong Temple, also known as Quan De Temple or Nghia An Hoi Quan, is a colorful architectural heritage of the Teochew Chinese community in Saigon. It was constructed at the end of the 19th century. With its ancient architecture, the temple exudes traditional beauty through its intricate details, particularly the vibrant red colors and the shapes resembling the characters “Quốc” and “Khẩu.” The main hall is a sacred space dedicated to General Quan Gong and several Buddhas, creating a mysterious and holy atmosphere. Recognized as a National Artistic Architecture Monument in 1993, Ong Temple is not only a spiritual destination but also a rich cultural symbol of the Chinese people in Vietnam.
History and Spiritual Significance
Ong Temple began construction in 1872 and was completed in 1876. Since then, it has become a sacred place where locals come to pray for prosperity, peace, and success in their careers. General Quan Gong, who is worshiped in the temple, symbolizes loyalty, integrity, and bravery. Therefore, not only the Chinese community but also many businesspeople, traders, and entrepreneurs in Ho Chi Minh City frequently visit Ong Temple to pray for success in their business endeavors.
Distinctive Chinese Architectural Style
Ong Temple is a fine example of Chinese architecture, featuring intricate decorative details. The temple gate is designed in the traditional Chinese three-gate style, with curved tiled roofs and decorations of majestic dragons and phoenixes.
Inside the temple, the main hall houses a large statue of General Quan Gong, with a serious and imposing expression. On either side, there are statues of Zhang Fei and Guan Ping, two loyal companions of Quan Gong. Additionally, the temple also honors deities such as the God of Wealth, Thien Hau Thanh Mau, and Laughing Buddha (Di Lạc).
A Mystical Space with Large Incense Coils
Similar to Thien Hau Temple, Ong Temple also features large incense coils hanging from the ceiling, creating a mystical and sacred atmosphere. Visitors can purchase incense and write their prayers on small pieces of paper, which are then attached to the incense coils, hoping for good health, prosperity, and peace.
Quan Thanh De Quan Festival – The Birthday of General Quan Gong
On the 13th day of the 1st lunar month, Ong Temple holds the Quan Thanh De Quan Festival to honor the contributions of General Quan Gong. This is an occasion when many locals, especially the Chinese community, come to the temple to participate in incense offerings and prayers.
- Address: 676 Nguyen Trai, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
- Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Conclusion
Ho Chi Minh City is not only a bustling economic hub but also home to many sacred temples with rich historical backgrounds and unique architecture. Whether you’re a local resident or a visitor, if you’re looking for peace of mind or want to admire the beauty of these religious landmarks, you cannot miss the temples in Ho Chi Minh City.
