Ba Thien Hau - one of the oldest Chinese pagodas in Saigon
Right in the historic Cho Lon, the Chinese-influenced district of Ho Chi Minh City, is home to the Bà Thiên Hậu Pagoda. It is one of the most important religious buildings of the Chinese community in Saigon and at the same time a fascinating place to get to know the cultural diversity of the city.
The pagoda was 1760 built by Chinese immigrants who had settled in Chợ Lớn. It is dedicated to the goddess Heavenly Empress Holy Mother dedicated to the patron goddess of seafarers, known in Chinese tradition as Mazu. The veneration commemorates the long history of the Chinese community and its connection to commerce and seafaring.
Architecture full of detail
As soon as you enter the complex, the traditional Chinese architecture catches the eye. Red lanterns, intricately decorated roofs, ceramic figures and numerous altars characterise the courtyard and the individual parts of the building.
Particularly characteristic are the delicate porcelain decorations and reliefs, which depict stories from Chinese mythology and religious tradition. The complex is structured according to traditional Chinese models and consists of several interconnected areas, including a front, middle and main hall.
A vibrant place of faith
The Thiên Hậu Temple is not merely a monument. To this day, it is visited by believers and is an important part of the religious and cultural life of Chợ Lớn. Incense sticks, offerings and the characteristic spiral incense coils create a special atmosphere.
Particularly impressive is the annual Mazu Festival on the 23rd day of the third lunar month. During this, the goddess is accompanied in a procession through the streets of Chợ Lớn. The festival is one of the significant cultural events of the Chinese community in Ho Chi Minh City.
connect Lady Thiên Hậu with Chợ Lớn
The pagoda can be particularly well combined with an individual exploration of Cho Lon connect. In the immediate vicinity are traditional markets, Chinese pharmacies, shops and further historic assembly halls and temples.
This turns the visit to the pagoda into much more than a quick photo stop: you get a personal insight into a part of Saigon where Chinese traditions, commerce, religion and everyday life have intertwined for centuries.
Thien Hau Temple – Quick Facts
- Location: 710 Nguyen Trai, Cho Lon, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
- Built: 1760
- Dedicated: Mazu, the patron goddess of seafarers
- Special features: traditional Chinese architecture, ceramic decorations, altars and incense coils
- Opening hours: daily from about 08:00 to 16:00
- Ideally combined with: Chợ Lớn, Binh Tay Market and other Chinese temples and assembly halls
Le Van Duyet Mausoleum – History and Living Tradition
Lê Văn Duyệt (1763 or 1764 - 30 July 1832) was a Vietnamese general who helped Nguyễn Ánh - the future Emperor Gia Long - put down the Tây Sơn uprising, unify Vietnam and found the Nguyễn dynasty.
"Due to Duyệt's military prowess, he quickly rose through the ranks of the Nguyễn army and became a marshal when the Tây Sơn-Nguyễn War ended. After the establishment of the Nguyễn dynasty, Duyệt served as a high-ranking mandarin and later as viceroy of southern Vietnam.
In the middle of today's Ho Chi Minh City lies the Le Van Duyet Mausoleum, usually called Lăng Ông – Bà Chiểu, one of the city's most significant historical sites. The complex commemorates Marshal Lê Văn Duyệt, an influential military and administrative official of the Nguyễn dynasty, who served twice as Tổng trấn of Gia Định.
After his death in 1832 his tomb became a place of worship. The current complex was built from 1841 onwards and evolved over time into an important centre of cultural and religious life in southern Vietnam. In 1988, the mausoleum was recognised as a national historical and cultural monument.
A traditional plant in the middle of the city
Even upon entering, the complex feels like another world. Behind the gates open courtyards, traditional buildings, altars, and wall-enclosed burial sites. The architecture combines elements of traditional Vietnamese construction with a clearly structured design typical of religious complexes.
Of particular interest is the contrast with the modern city: just a few steps away there is heavy traffic, while inside the compound a distinctly more tranquil atmosphere is created. It is precisely this contrast that makes the visit an interesting insight into historic Saigon.
Le Van Duyet and the history of South Vietnam
Le Van Duyet (1764–1832) played an important role in the history of the Gia Dinh region. During his terms of office as Tong tran, he concerned himself with administration, trade, agriculture and the development of infrastructure, among other things. Historical sources also attribute an important role to him in the stabilisation and economic development of the region.
His historical significance is still assessed differently to this day and is interpreted in various ways within the social memory of South Vietnam. In the mausoleum, however, the primary focus is on the traditional remembrance of him as an important figure in the history of Gia Định.
A tradition that is alive to this day
The mausoleum is not purely a historical monument. Every year, the traditional Memorial service for Lê Văn Duyệt instead of, where traditional ceremonies are held and numerous people from Ho Chi Minh City and other regions participate.
Especially during this time, it becomes clear what significance the place holds for the local population. Prayers, offerings and traditional rituals connect the remembrance of history with a cultural tradition that remains alive to this day.
Discover Lăng Ông – Bà Chiểu independently
The Lê Văn Duyệt Mausoleum combines brilliantly with other sights around Bà Chiểu and Bình Thạnh connect. Particularly interesting is the combination with local markets, traditional residential areas and other historical sites off the classic route through the centre.
On a private tour, the visit can be integrated in such a way that the focus is not only on the monument itself, but also on modern-day life around this historical part of Saigon. This creates a more personal approach to the city and its history.
Lê-Văn-Duyệt-Mausoleum – Quick Facts
- Vietnamese name: Le Van Duyet Tomb, also known as Lang Ong - Ba Chieu
- Location: in the Gia Định district of Ho Chi Minh City
- Dedicated: Marshal Lê Văn Duyệt (1764–1832)
- Special features: traditional architecture, burial sites, altars and historical ceremonies
- Listed building conservation national historic and cultural monument since 1988
- Particularly interesting: during the annual traditional memorial service
Ong Bon Pagoda – a slice of Chinese Cho Lon
The Ong Bon Pagoda, too Nhi Phu Assembly Hall or called Miếu Nhị Phủ, is among the most traditional religious sites in Chợ Lớn. It is located on Hải Thượng Lãn Ông Street and is closely linked to the history of Saigon's Chinese community.
According to various sources, the facility was already created in early 18th century, when Chinese immigrants from Fujian settled in the Chợ Lớn region. It served not only religious purposes, but was also an important community hub where people gathered and maintained their cultural traditions.
Ông Bổn – the patron god of land and people
At the centre of the veneration is Ong Bon, also known as Ông Bổn Đầu Công. In the religious tradition of the ethnic Chinese population, he is regarded as the guardian deity of the land and its people. In the Ông Bổn Pagoda, he is venerated as the central deity, while other altars are dedicated to various other deities.
Precisely this combination of different religious traditions makes the visit interesting. Alongside Ông Bổn, there are depictions and altars for, among other things, Thien Hau, Quan Am and the Jade Emperor. As a result, the complex conveys a good impression of how diverse the religious culture of the Chinese community in Chợ Lớn is.
Intricate details and traditional architecture
Even the entrance area makes it clear that this is no ordinary pagoda. The building is richly adorned with wood carvings, ceramics, colourful roof ornaments and traditional depictions designed. Inside, there are ornately decorated altars and wall paintings featuring dragons, tigers and other motifs from Chinese culture.
Particularly worth seeing is the intricately carved and gilded main altar. The roof design with ceramic figures and traditional ornaments also shows the craftsmanship and attention to detail that is characteristic of many historic temples and assembly halls in Chợ Lớn.
A vibrant place instead of a mere monument
To this day, the Ông Bổn Pagoda is a active place of worship. Incense sticks, altars and offerings are part of the daily scene. Visitors can thus not only view historical architecture, but also get an impression of how religious traditions continue to be part of everyday life in Chợ Lớn.
The pagoda was built in 1998 as architectural and artistic monument recognised. It therefore holds special significance for both the religious community and the cultural heritage of Ho Chi Minh City.
Connect the Ong Bon Pagoda with Cho Lon
The pagoda is particularly well-suited for an individual tour of discovery through Cho Lon connects. In the immediate vicinity are further historic temples, assembly halls and traditional markets, which together provide a much more comprehensive insight into the history of Saigon’s Chinese-influenced quarters.
It is precisely the combination of religious sites, narrow streets, local shops and markets that makes this part of Ho Chi Minh City interesting. On a private tour, you can make the itinerary flexible and also include places that are often not featured on a classic city tour.
Ong Bon Pagoda – Quick Facts
- Vietnamese name: Ong Bon Pagoda / Nhi Phu Temple
- Also known as: Nhi Phu Assembly Hall
- Location: 264 Hai Thuong Lan Ong, Cho Lon, Ho Chi Minh City
- History: Origins in the early 18th century
- Special features: traditional Fujian architecture, woodcarvings, ceramics, altars and mural paintings
- Main veneration: Ong Bon as a patron deity of land and people
- Listed building conservation architectural and artistic monument since 1998
- Opening hours: daily from about 08:00 to 16:00
Phụng Sơn Tự – a quiet temple in the middle of Saigon
Just a few steps from the hustle and bustle of today's city centre lies Phung Son Tu a comparatively small and quiet temple. The complex is located on Nguyễn Công Trứ Street in what is now the Bến Thành district and is one of those historic religious sites that is easily overlooked, even though it tells a lot about the cultural development of Saigon.
According to the municipal monument documentation, the history of the temple dates back to a small original shrine. Today's pagoda was built around the beginning of the 20th century and is connected to the Chinese community, particularly the Fujian-speaking population in Saigon.
From a small shrine to today's pagoda
The inscriptions found on the front of the pagoda tell the story of its development. Originally, there was a small shrine here. As the Chinese community grew and the desire to create a larger place for religious ceremonies and the remembrance of ancestors increased, the complex was expanded over time.
This development is typical of many religious sites in Saigon: they did not emerge in isolation, but evolved alongside the communities that settled in the various districts. Phụng Sơn Tự is therefore not only a religious site, but also a small piece of urban history.
Chinese traditions right in the middle of the modern city centre
Inside the pagoda, Buddhist worship and traditional Chinese belief elements meet. Altars, incense sticks and intricately designed religious depictions shape the interior.
Particularly characteristic are the Incense coils, which hang over the courtyard and the open areas of the complex respectively. Their fragrance and subdued atmosphere form a remarkable contrast to the busy traffic right outside the temple.
The pagoda is still used for religious ceremonies to this day. This makes it feel less like a classic tourist attraction and much more like a place that remains part of everyday religious life in Saigon.
An interesting contrast to modern Saigon
The location in particular makes Phụng Sơn Tự interesting. Around Nguyễn Công Trứ Street, there are shops, markets and heavy urban traffic. Behind the entrance of the pagoda, on the other hand, a distinctly calmer atmosphere is created.
This direct switch between a bustling big city and a traditional religious site shows a typical side of Ho-Chi-Minh-CityHistoric buildings and religious traditions are not only to be found in secluded quarters, but are sometimes located right next to modern city life.
Explore Phụng Sơn Tự independently
Phụng Sơn Tự is particularly suitable for travellers who want to get to know Saigon away from the well-known sights. The visit can easily be combined with a walk through the older streets around Dan Sinh Market, local markets and other historic locations in the centre.
On a custom-planned city tour, the temple can be included as a short, quiet stopover. This creates a varied route that not only shows Saigon's well-known landmarks, but also smaller places with local history and cultural significance.
Phụng Sơn Tự – Quick Facts
- Vietnamese name: Phụng Sơn Tự
- Location: 338–340 Nguyen Cong Tru, Ben Thanh, Ho Chi Minh City
- History: current installation dating from roughly the early 20th century
- Origin: a small older shrine at the present location
- Special features: Chinese-influenced architecture, altars and traditional incense coils
- Cultural connection Chinese, particularly Fujian-speaking, community of Saigon
- Particularly interesting: the peaceful atmosphere in contrast to the bustling city centre
Buu Long Pagoda – exceptional architecture on the outskirts of Saigon
About 20 kilometres north-east of the city centre lies the Buu Long Pagoda one of the architecturally most unusual Buddhist sites in Ho Chi Minh City. The pagoda is situated on an elevation near the Dong Nai River and is surrounded by plenty of greenery – a remarkable contrast to the densely built-up centre of Saigon.
Bửu Long belongs to Theravada Buddhism, which is also known in Vietnam as Nam-Tông Buddhism. The complex was founded in 1942 by the layperson Võ Hà Thuật and handed over in 1958 to the later first Supreme Patriarch of Vietnamese Theravāda Buddhism, Hòa thượng Hộ Tông.
An architecture that breaks the mould
If you expect traditional Vietnamese pagodas, you will experience a completely different form of Buddhist architecture here. The buildings of Bửu Long combine Influences from Thailand and India with elements of Vietnamese sacred architecture. Bright façades, golden ornaments, curved roofs and elaborately crafted details shape the appearance of the complex.
Particularly impressive is the large Gotama-Cetiya-Stupa, which has become the landmark of the pagoda. The stupa was erected during the extensive construction and restoration work starting in 2007 and serves, among other things, to house Buddha relics and relics of important monks. Information on the height differs depending on the source; the municipal tourist information office and several current sources cite around 70 metres.
Peace, greenery and a panoramic view
Aside from the architecture, it is primarily the surroundings that make Bửu Long special. The expansive grounds are set in a green environment and offer a stark contrast to the hectic city life of Ho Chi Minh City.
Therefore, the pagoda is not only of interest to visitors who care about Buddhist architecture. Anyone looking for a quieter place during a city break will also find a completely different side of the metropolis here. The visit can easily be combined with other sights in the east of Ho Chi Minh City.
A pagoda without joss sticks
A special feature of Bửu Long is the restrained form of worship. Unlike in many Buddhist temples in Vietnam, traditionally no incense is burned here and no offerings are placed before the altars. The municipal tourism information explicitly points this out and therefore describes Bửu Long as an „incense-free“ pagoda.
This makes the atmosphere within the complex particularly peaceful. Visitors primarily come here for contemplation, meditation, and prayer. At the same time, the religious function of the place should be respected – appropriate clothing and quiet behaviour are a matter of course.
Explore Bv'u Long independently
Buu Long Pagoda lies somewhat outside the classic sights in the centre and is therefore particularly well suited for a individually planned city tour. Instead of planning the visit as just a quick photo stop, the pagoda can be combined with further stops in the east of the city.
It is precisely the combination of architecture, Buddhist tradition and the green surroundings that makes Bửu Long an interesting contrast to the historical temples of Chợ Lớn. This is how you get to know different religious and cultural facets of Ho Chi Minh City.
Buu Long Pagoda – Quick Facts
- Vietnamese name: Buu Long Pagoda / Buu Long Zen Monastery
- Location: 81 Nguyen Xien, Long Binh, Ho Chi Minh City
- Tradition Theravada Buddhism (Southern Tradition)
- Established: 1942
- Special features: Theravada architecture with influences from Thailand and India, expansive green grounds
- Landmark: Gotama-Cetiya-Stupa
- Special feature: traditionally no incense or offerings like in many other pagodas
- Visiting hours: Current details state approximately 08:00–18:00; between 11:00 and 14:00 the interior is partly closed to visitors.
Ba Chua Doc 3 Pagoda – a pagoda on an island in the Dong Nai River
One of the most unusual religious sites around Ho Chi Minh City is not located on a busy street, but on a small island in the Đồng Nai River. The Chùa Bà Châu Đốc 3 is only accessible by boat and combines a visit to a traditional religious site with a short trip through the river landscape to the east of the city.
The pagoda was 1965 founded under the guidance of the monk Thích Nhất Phát. Its location away from the city centre has helped give the complex a distinctly more tranquil character than many of the well-known temples and pagodas in central Saigon.
The route to the pagoda is all part of the experience
Even the journey there distinguishes this visit from a classic temple visit. After the drive through the eastern districts of Ho Chi Minh City, it continues with a small boat across the Đồng Nai River. The short crossing opens up a completely different perspective on the surrounding area and makes the densely built-up metropolis quickly seem a long way away.
On the bank, the striking entrance gate of the pagoda immediately catches the eye. Behind it are the religious buildings and complexes, which blend harmoniously into the surroundings. Particularly characteristic are the traditional ornaments and depictions of dragons and other symbols of Vietnamese religious art.
A place of worship and tranquillity
Chùa Bà Châu Đốc 3 is a active place of worship and not just a pure tourist destination. Visitors come here to pray, burn incense and make offerings. The religious atmosphere thus differs significantly from the classic sights in the centre of Ho Chi Minh City.
It is precisely the combination of the river landscape, the temple complex and the comparatively quiet surroundings that makes the place interesting. Those who take their time can not only look at the buildings, but also observe how the pagoda is used by worshippers.
Experience Ba Chua Doc Temple 3 independently
The pagoda combines particularly well with other sights in East of Ho Chi Minh City connect. In the immediate regional vicinity is also the Buu Long Pagoda, so that both places can be combined into a varied route.
We use this exact combination on our private tour too "The undiscovered Saigon“After visiting Bửu Long Pagoda, a boat trip leads to Chùa Bà Châu Đốc 3 before discovering further lesser-known facets of the city.
On an individually planned trip, the visit can of course also be organised differently. You can therefore decide for yourself how much time you spend at the pagoda and which other places you would like to combine with this excursion.
Ba Chua Doc 3 Pagoda – Quick Facts
- Vietnamese name: Chùa Bà Châu Đốc 3
- Location: Long Binh, Ho Chi Minh City, on a small island in the Dong Nai River
- Established: 1965
- Special feature: The pagoda can only be reached across the river by boat
- Character active religious site with traditional Vietnamese temple architecture
- Surroundings river landscape and comparatively tranquil environment in the east of the city
- Combination especially interesting in combination with the Bửu Long Pagoda and other sights in the east of Ho Chi Minh City
Tran-Hung-Dao Temple – History and Vietnamese Culture of Remembrance
Tran Hung Dao – a central figure in Vietnamese history
Tran Hung Dao, whose civilian name Trần Quốc Tuấn, lived in the 13th century and played a central military role during the conflicts between Đại Việt and the Mongol-led Yuan forces. In the Vietnamese historical tradition, he is particularly associated with the repelling of the Mongol invasions in the 13th century.
To this day, he is remembered in Vietnam not only as a historical figure. He is venerated in numerous temples, and his commemoration day in the eighth month of the lunar calendar is part of traditional commemorative culture. The temple in Ho Chi Minh City also holds corresponding ceremonies.
Traditional architecture right in the middle of the big city
Even the three-part entrance gate conveys the character of the complex. Beyond it opens up an inner courtyard with a statue of Trần Hưng Đạo. The actual temple is designed according to a traditional layout and features a striking roof with curved roof edges and decorative dragon motifs.
Inside are intricately designed altars, woodwork, Chinese characters, wall plaques and memorial tablets. Of particular interest is the combination of various architectural elements: the structure is modelled on traditional temple complexes, yet was conceived as an independent building of the 20th century.
A small exhibition room on the history of the Trần dynasty
A special feature of the temple is located next to the actual sanctuary. In a small exhibition room historical documents, maps and depictions of Trần Hưng Đạo and the military conflicts with the Mongols are displayed.
The visit thus offers more than just a glimpse of a traditional temple. The exhibition provides an additional approach to history and makes the site interesting for travellers who are less interested in religious architecture, but more so in the history of Vietnam.
A vibrant place of worship
To this day, the temple remains an active place of worship. Especially during the annual commemoration day of Trần Hưng Đạo, numerous people come here to pray and remember his historical significance. This makes the temple one of the places in Saigon where historical memory and living tradition directly combine.
In 2024, the Shrine of Saint Tran Hung Dao officially classified as a municipal architectural and art monument. The current address is given by the municipal authorities as 36 Võ Thị Sáu given in today's Tân Định district.
Discover the Tran Hung Dao Temple independently
The temple is very well suited to an individual discovery tour through Tan Dinh and the historic centre of Saigon connect. In the surrounding area there are other interesting buildings, local markets and religious sites that provide a varied insight into the city's history.
Particularly for travellers who, alongside the well-known sights, also want to history and cultural traditions of Vietnam want to get to know, the temple is an interesting addition. On a private tour, the visit can be flexibly combined with other stops and does not have to fit into a fixed sightseeing programme.
Tran Hung Dao Temple – Quick Facts
- Vietnamese name: Shrine of Saint Tran Hung Dao
- Location: 36 Vo Thi Sau, Tan Dinh, Ho Chi Minh City
- Dedicated: Tran Hung Dao / Tran Quoc Tuan
- Original temple: 1932 on the site of the former Vạn An Pagoda
- Today's attachment: newly built in 1957–1958
- Special features: traditional temple design, three-bay entrance gate, courtyard and historical exhibition
- Listed building conservation municipal architectural and art monument since 2024
- Particularly interesting: during the traditional commemorative ceremony in the eighth month of the lunar calendar
FAQ – Temples and Pagodas in Saigon
Which temples and pagodas in Saigon are particularly worth seeing?
Among the interesting religious sites are, inter alia, the Thien Hau Pagoda and the Ong Bon Pagoda in Cho Lon, the Lê Văn Duyệt Mausoleum, the Bửu Long Pagode and the Chùa Bà Châu Đốc 3. Each of these complexes provides a different insight into the religious, cultural and historical development of Ho Chi Minh City.
Where are the main pagodas in Saigon?
The religious sites are distributed across various districts. A particularly large number of historical temples and pagodas are located in Cho Lon, the traditionally Chinese-influenced part of Ho Chi Minh City. Other interesting sites are located in the centre or in the outer districts, for example the Bửu Long Pagoda in the east of the city.
Can you visit temples and pagodas in Saigon as a tourist?
Yes. Most temples and pagodas can generally be visited by tourists. However, it is important to note that they are often active religious sites actions. Quiet behaviour, appropriate clothing and consideration for people praying are therefore part of a respectful visit.
What should one bear in mind when visiting a pagoda?
Shoulders and knees should be covered as much as possible. Indoors, one should behave quietly and not disturb religious ceremonies. Depending on the pagoda, there may also be areas that are reserved exclusively for believers or monks. Photography is often permitted, but should be done with due consideration.
What is the difference between a temple and a pagoda in Vietnam?
The terms are sometimes not strictly separated from each other in everyday language. Put simply, „Pagoda“ usually means a Buddhist temple or pagoda, whereas „Temple“ frequently refers to a temple dedicated to a historical figure, a patron saint or a deity. In the religious practice of Vietnam, however, there are numerous overlaps.
Experience temples and pagodas independently
The Temples and pagodas in Saigon can be discovered with particular intensity when they are not simply ticked off as individual sights on a fixed route. Their true significance often only becomes clear in the context of the neighbourhood, its history and the everyday lives of the people today.
At a individually planned private tour we can therefore tailor your discovery tour entirely to your interests. Would you like to learn more about the Chinese history of Chợ Lớn, discover Buddhist architecture or visit historical sites away from the well-known sights? The route can be put together accordingly.
This allows various temples and pagodas to be linked together. A tour through Cho Lon can, for example, combine historical pagodas, traditional markets and local streets. The Bửu Long Pagoda and Chùa Bà Châu Đốc 3, on the other hand, offer the opportunity to combine religious architecture with a trip through the less densely built-up area in the east of the city.
In doing so, we take care not to show just the buildings themselves. Local expertise helps to contextualise the historical background, religious traditions and cultural particularities in an understandable way. At the same time, there is plenty of time to let a place sink in at one's own pace.
You are travelling private and with a personal tour escort and decide for yourself how much time you want to spend at each stop. This results not in a standardised sightseeing tour, but in an individual discovery of Saigon that suits your interests and travel pace.
If you want to experience Ho Chi Minh City beyond just the well-known landmarks, the historical temples and pagodas can be brilliantly combined with further authentic experiences and local insights connect. This turns a classic city break into a personally tailored journey through the various cultural facets of Saigon.
