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Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is not only a bustling economic hub but also home to many sacred, famous, and beautiful temples that attract millions of tourists and Buddhist followers each year. These temples are not just places of worship and prayer but also architectural masterpieces that contribute to the cultural diversity of the city. Below are some of the most prominent temples in HCMC that you should not miss when visiting in 2025.
1. Jade Emperor Pagoda (Phuoc Hai Temple)
Jade Emperor Temple, also known as Phước Hải Temple, is located at 73 Mai Thị Lựu Street, District 1. It is one of the most famous and sacred temples in HCMC. The temple was built in the 19th century and features unique Chinese architectural design. The temple honors the Jade Emperor, various deities, and many meticulously crafted Buddha statues. Apart from its spiritual ambiance, the Jade Emperor Temple is also known for its landscape paintings, divine statues, and sparkling lanterns, which create a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
2. Ba Thien Hau Pagoda
Bà Thiên Hậu Temple, located at 710 Nguyễn Trãi Street, District 5, is an ancient temple with a long history. It is one of the most spiritually significant temples for the Chinese community in HCMC. The temple is dedicated to Bà Thiên Hậu, the goddess who protects sailors and fishermen. The temple's architecture is heavily influenced by Chinese culture, with exquisite details such as mural paintings and curved rooflines, creating a mystical and sacred space. Bà Thiên Hậu Temple is not only a place for prayer but also a popular tourist attraction, especially during festivals.
3. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda
Vĩnh Nghiêm Temple, located on Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa Street, District 3, is one of the largest and most important Buddhist temples in HCMC. The temple was built in the 1960s and features traditional North Vietnamese Buddhist architecture. The temple's highlight is the 7-meter-tall Amitabha Buddha statue, along with many other Buddha statues and beautiful architectural works. Vĩnh Nghiêm Temple is not only a pilgrimage site but also a center for Buddhist activities, making it an ideal place for those seeking peace and tranquility.
4. Pho Quang Temple
Phổ Quang Temple, located on Trường Sơn Street, Tân Bình, is famous for its spacious and peaceful environment. The temple is dedicated to Amitabha Buddha and is built in the traditional Vietnamese architectural style, with sweeping temple roofs, red-tiled walkways, and lush greenery. The temple is especially known for its large festivals, attracting many Buddhist followers.
5. Xa Loi Pagoda
Xá Lợi Temple, located in District 3, is one of the oldest and most famous temples in HCMC. It was built in 1956 and is heavily influenced by Theravada Buddhism. The temple offers a quiet and sacred atmosphere, with exquisitely crafted Buddha statues. A significant feature of Xá Lợi Temple is the preservation of a relic, a part of the Buddha’s bone, making it an important pilgrimage site.
6. Buu Long Pagoda
Bửu Long Temple, located in District 9, is built in an Indian architectural style combined with Southeast Asian Buddhist influences. The temple has a vast courtyard with massive Buddha statues, lotus towers, and a tranquil lake. Notably, the 80-meter-high Bửu Long Stupa is one of the most impressive Buddhist architectural landmarks in Vietnam. This temple is an ideal destination for both tourists and those seeking peace and prayer in the midst of the bustling city.
7. Hue Nghiem Pagoda
Huệ Nghiêm Temple, located in District 2, stands out with its spacious grounds and impressive architecture. Built in the traditional Buddhist style, the temple blends modern elements, creating a relaxing and peaceful environment. It is a perfect place for Buddhists and tourists seeking peace and serenity.
8. Phung Son Monastery
Phụng Sơn Monastery, also known as Chùa Gò, is located in District 12 and is one of the most well-known temples among Buddhist followers and locals. Built in the early 20th century, it features classical Buddhist architecture. It is a major center for Buddhist activities and also hosts important religious events. With its peaceful and serene environment, Phụng Sơn Monastery is a popular destination for those seeking tranquility.
9. Viet Nam Quoc Tu (National pagoda of Vietnam)
Việt Nam Quốc Tự, located at 1 3 Tháng 2 Street, District 10, is one of the largest and most sacred temples in HCMC. Built in 1969, the temple is a major Buddhist center with a vast and solemn space. Its architecture is grand, and it is especially known for its 20-meter-high Amitabha Buddha statue. The temple hosts many important Buddhist events, such as festivals, lectures, and prayers for peace, attracting many Buddhist followers.
10. Minh Dang Monastery
Minh Đăng Monastery, located in District 2, is known for its quiet and solemn atmosphere. The monastery is built in the North Vietnamese Buddhist style, with beautifully carved Buddha statues and intricate details. Minh Đăng Monastery is not just a place of worship but also a center for Buddhist study and hosting Buddhist courses and lectures. It is a peaceful place for meditation and spiritual growth.
11. Quang Duc Monastery
Quảng Đức Monastery, located at 505 Sư Vạn Hạnh Street, District 10, is one of the most famous monasteries in HCMC. Founded in 1969, it holds significant meaning for the Vietnamese Buddhist community. The monastery is known for its traditional Buddhist architecture and exquisitely crafted Buddha statues. It serves as a place of worship and is also a center for Buddhist activities and courses.
12. Giac Lam Pagoda
Giác Lâm Pagoda, located at 118 Lạc Long Quân Street, Tân Bình, is one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in HCMC. Built in 1744, it carries the architectural style of early Southern Vietnamese Buddhism and is one of the prominent temples of Theravada Buddhism. The temple is not only known for its tranquil atmosphere but also for its large Buddha statues, lush trees, and expansive gardens. Giác Lâm Pagoda is one of the city's famous pilgrimage sites.
13. Phu Chau Pagoda (Floating Pagoda)
Phù Châu Temple, also known as the Floating Temple, is located in Bình Trị Đông Ward, Bình Tân District, HCMC, on a small island in the river. The temple honors the goddess Phù Châu, a deity revered by locals. The temple is unique because it is only accessible by boat or a footbridge. This sacred site is especially popular during major festivals, attracting many visitors seeking good fortune.
14. Sung Chinh Pagoda
Sung Chinh Pagoda, also known as Sung Chinh Assembly Hall, Từ Thiện Assembly Hall, or the Four-Faced Buddha Pagoda, is located at 17 Trương Đình Hội Street, Ward 16, District 8, Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon). This is a beautiful and attractive Chinese pagoda in the district. The Sùng Chính Assembly Hall is also called the Four-Faced Buddha Pagoda because it is the only Chinese pagoda in Saigon that houses a Four-Faced Buddha (Phra Brahma, the Hindu god of creation). Each face of the statue represents a different virtue: kindness, compassion, empathy, and impartiality, and it was brought from Thailand.
15. Vien Giac Temple
Viên Giác Temple, located at 22 Lê Quang Định Street, Bình Thạnh District, HCMC, is a famous temple known for its peaceful scenery and impressive architecture. Built in the traditional Theravada Buddhist style, the temple features large Buddha statues and finely crafted architectural works. Viên Giác Temple is known for its spacious, tranquil gardens, ideal for meditation and prayer. The temple also hosts many significant Buddhist events, such as meditation retreats and Buddhist festivals.
16. Thao Duong Thien Tu
Thảo Đường Thiền Tự, located in District 6, is a famous temple with a simple and peaceful atmosphere, ideal for those seeking a place for meditation and inner peace. The temple follows the traditional design of meditation centers and hosts various Buddhist courses, teachings, and religious ceremonies. Surrounded by nature, Thảo Đường Thiền Tự creates an ideal environment for spiritual practice.
19. Ong Pagoda
Ông Pagoda, also known as Quan Thanh De Quan Temple, is located in District 5, HCMC. This temple is famous among the Chinese community in the city and honors the Taoist deity Quan Thanh De Quan, also known as the God of War. The temple's classical Chinese architecture, with its vibrant colors and intricate carvings, makes it a visually stunning landmark. Visitors come to pray for prosperity, good health, and protection.
Ho Chi Minh City is home to numerous sacred, famous, and beautiful temples, each offering a unique cultural and spiritual experience. Whether you're seeking inner peace, marveling at architectural wonders, or learning more about Vietnam’s diverse religious practices, these temples offer a glimpse into the heart of HCMC's rich history and spiritual life. If you visit in 2025, these temples are certainly worth exploring!
