Chua Ngoc Hoang

số 73, đường Mai Thị Lựu, Quận 1, Tp. Hồ Chí Minh, Việt Nam

Ngoc Hoang Pagoda is a place not to be missed when traveling to Saigon. Besides the spiritual element, the sacred place to pray for children and marriage, this pagoda also possesses the beautiful and ancient Chinese architecture. It is known as a famous ancient temple that once welcomed US President Barack Obama. What is the attraction that makes this pagoda so popular? Let's learn about the history and architecture of this Saigon tourist destination in the article below.

Ngoc Hoang Pagoda, also known as Turtle Pagoda, is one of the five most important temples in Ho Chi Minh City.

Built in the early 20th century by a community of Cantonese immigrants from Guangzhou province in southwestern China, this pagoda is a typical representative of the Mahayana branch of Buddhism widely practiced in Vietnam.

In the main hall, the Jade Emperor, the Jade Lord or 'God of Heaven', reigns supreme. Assisted by two assistants, the Emperor decides who can enter this higher realm. Those who fail to pass through this gate are met by the mighty 'God of Hell', on the left, who sends sinners to one of ten levels of hell. Life in purgatory is depicted in a glorious but rather brutal way in the intricate carvings on the temple walls, depicting the various punishments that await transgressors.

In another hall, the goddess of fertility Kim Hua, surrounded by images of women and children, blesses childless couples praying for a child here. The goddess of mercy Kuan Yin, a very important part of any Taoist temple, has an altar in a room on the top floor.

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a lively and active shrine that is used by locals to pray or make offerings of flowers, candles and incense. With devotees coming and going, the temple can get busy and feel a little cramped. The dim lighting and narrow, smoke-filled passageways give the place a sense of space, adding to its charm.

There is a crowded turtle pond in front of the temple grounds and feeding the animals is considered part of the merit-making ritual of going to the temple.

Opening hours: 08:00 – 17:00
Location: 73 Mai Thi Luu, District 3 Note: There is no entrance fee but visitors are welcome to make a donation.

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