A Sanctuary of Myth and Mysticism
The Jade Emperor Pagoda, officially known as Phước Hải Tự (Phuoc Hai Temple), is one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most visually and spiritually compelling sites. Built in 1909 by the Cantonese Chinese community, its architecture is a vibrant fusion of Chinese and Vietnamese styles, characterized by a striking coral-pink exterior, yin-yang tiled roofs, and stunningly intricate ceramic and wood carvings.
The Supreme Court of Heaven: The main chamber is dedicated to the Jade Emperor (Ngọc Hoàng), the supreme Taoist god who presides over heaven and earth. The air here is thick with the smoke of joss sticks, creating an ethereal, almost mystical atmosphere that truly transports you out of the bustling city.
Art of the Afterlife: Explore the infamous Hall of the Ten Hells, featuring carved wooden panels that graphically illustrate the judgments and varied punishments awaiting the wicked in the afterlife—a powerful and vivid depiction of karmic consequence that adds to the temple’s intense drama.
Statues of Power and Grace: Marvel at the fierce, menacing Taoist deities, including the guardians of the Emperor, known as the Four Big Diamonds. These statues, some made from reinforced papier-mâché, are masterpieces of religious folk art.
The Pagoda of Wishes and Blessings
Beyond its visual grandeur, the pagoda is a deeply meaningful place for worshippers seeking specific blessings in their lives.
The Fertility Chamber: Perhaps the most unique and moving experience is the small chamber dedicated to Kim Hoa Thanh Mau (the Goddess of Fertility) and her twelve Midwives. This is a renowned spot where couples, both local and foreign, come to pray for the blessing of a child. Devotees often perform a moving ritual involving touching the statues of the midwives and making earnest vows.
The Tortoise Pond: In the courtyard, you’ll find the famous “Tortoise Pagoda” pond, where tortoises—symbols of longevity in Vietnamese culture—live. Feeding the tortoises is considered an act of merit, bringing good fortune to the giver.
Visitor Information & Protocol
Admission: Entry to the Jade Emperor Pagoda is Free of Charge. Small donations are welcome to help with the upkeep and maintenance of this historical site.
Address: 73 Mai Thi Luu Street, Đa Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening Hours: Generally open daily from 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM. It is particularly busy and atmospheric on the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month.
Respectful Dress Code: As a sacred place of worship, visitors are requested to dress modestly—clothing should cover the shoulders and knees.
Photography: Please be respectful and refrain from taking photos in the main prayer halls. The ambiance is best experienced in quiet contemplation.
