Temples in Saigon: Exploring Ho Chi Minh City's Sacred Spaces

Spiritual travel is one of the popular options for retreats nowadays

Ho Chi Minh City, also known as Saigon, is the largest city in Vietnam and boasts a blend of modern skyscrapers, historical architecture, bustling street life, and rich cultural traditions. Among its many attractions, the city is home to numerous temples and pagodas that serve as important spiritual centers for locals and offer insight into the religious diversity of the region. From small neighborhood shrines to grand temples, these places of worship provide visitors with a glimpse into Vietnam’s religious practices, architecture, and culture. Check out our list of some of the must see temples in Saigon!

Pro-tip! Before visiting any temples in Saigon, check out our guide on cultural tips.

Jade Emperor Temple (Điện Ngọc Hoàng)

Located in the heart of District 1, you will find one of the most famous temples in Saigon, the Jade Emperor Temple. It is a Taoist temple built in 1906 by a Cantonese migrant, Liu Daoyuan. It is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, who is believed to be the ruler of heaven in Taoist mythology. Crawling through the temple, you will notice its intricate carvings, woodwork, and statues, all set within a dense, atmospheric environment filled with incense smoke and the glow of candles.

Jade Emperor Temple - the temple in Saigon where people will come to pray for children

One of the temple's most revered statues is that of Kim Hoa Thanh Mau (Golden Flower Empress), the goddess of fertility. Those praying for children will come to pray to Kim Hoa and 12 midwives.

Fun fact! This temple gained international popularity when it was visited by United States President Barack Obama in 2016.

Giac Lam Pagoda (Chùa Giác Lâm)

Arguably one of the oldest pagodas in Saigon, Giac Lam Pagoda was constructed in 1744 by Lý Thụy Long. Located in the Tan Binh District, this Buddhist pagoda is known for its simple yet eye-catching architecture, perfectly reflecting traditional Vietnamese pagoda design. The pagoda's name translates to "Feel the Woods" which is fitting given its peaceful surroundings and the calm it offers away from the noisy city.

Giac Lam Pagoda - A place with unique Vietnamese traditional architecture

The main hall of the pagoda has statues of Buddha and various Bodhisattvas along with intricate carvings and murals depicting stories from Buddhist scriptures.One of the main attractions is the seven-story stupa that offers stunning views of the pagoda grounds. If you plan to visit Giac Lam Pagoda you can join ceremonies, offer incense, or simply enjoy the serene atmosphere of the pagoda’s gardens.

Fun fact! Bodhisattvas are beings who haven’t entered paradise so they can help others attain enlightenment.

Thien Hau Temple (Miếu Bà Thiên Hậu)

Dedicated to Thien Hau (Mazu), Chinese Goddess of the Sea, known for protecting fishermen and sailors, Thien Hau Temple is located in Cholon, the city’s Chinatown in District 5. It was built by the Cantonese community in the early 19th century and remains a significant religious site for the Chinese-Vietnamese community.

Thien Hau Temple - a Chinese-style temple in Saigon dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea

The temple’s architecture is typical of traditional Chinese temples, with tiled roofs, and intricate wood carvings. Inside you will find that it is richly decorated with vibrant colors and filled with statues, lanterns, and incense coils that are hanging from the ceiling. Worshippers will come to pray for protection and safe travels, especially those embarking on journeys at sea. Thien Hau Temple is particularly busy during festivals such as the Tet (Lunar New Year), when many people come to offer prayers and celebrate.

Join our Saigon Secrets Tour and visit interesting temples in Saigon’s Chinatown (Cho Lon)!

Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda (Chùa Vĩnh Nghiêm)

Located in District 3, Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda is one of the largest and most impressive pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City. Built in the 1960s in a modern architectural style, it blends elements of traditional Vietnamese design with influences from Japan. The main tower, which stands at 40 meters tall, is a dominant feature of the pagoda and can be seen from various points in the city.

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda - One of the largest pagoda in Saigon where people can come and immerse themselves in the tranquility

The pagoda is an important center for Buddhist worship and education, and it features statues of the Buddha, as well as Bodhisattvas like Avalokitesvara. The pagoda grounds include a courtyard where devotees can light incense and pray, as well as a bell tower and a lotus pond. Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda is also known for its annual Vu Lan festival, a Buddhist holiday that honors ancestors and parents, drawing large crowds of worshippers.

Xa Loi Pagoda (Chùa Xá Lợi)

Another prominent Buddhist temple in District 3 is the Xa Loi Pagoda. It was constructed in 1956 and is the largest pagoda in Saigon in terms of area. The pagoda is dedicated to Sakyamuni Buddha and is named after the sacred relics of the Buddha, known as Xa Loi in Vietnamese.

Xa Loi Pagoda - A historical site that has witnessed important events in the Vietnam War in Saigon

Xa Loi Pagoda is well-known not just for its spiritual significance but also for its role in Vietnamese history. In 1963, it became a center of Buddhist opposition to the South Vietnamese government, which led to a government crackdown and the infamous self-immolation of monk Thích Quảng Đức, leading to a major turning point in the Vietnam War (known as the American War in Vietnam). Fast forward to present day, the pagoda serves as a place of peaceful worship and reflection. Be sure to check out the impressive bell tower and main hall, some of the most notable attributes of the pagoda.

Come explore the temples and pagodas of Saigon with Vespa A Go Go

The temples in Saigon offer a unique window into Vietnam’s diverse religious practices and its history. Whether Buddhist, Taoist, or Hindu, these sacred spaces provide visitors with a sense of peace and reflection amidst the energy of the city. Join our Before Saigon and see some temples up close!

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