Hoi Quan Nghia An (Chua Ong): Teochew Temple in HCMC Chinatown

A Treasury of Teochew Art and History Nghia An Assembly Hall, or Chùa Ông (Ong Pagoda), is more than a place of worship; it’s the cultural heart of the Teochew (Triều Châu) Chinese community who migrated from the Nghia An prefecture of Guangdong, China, in the early 19th century. Built in the traditional Chinese “Quốc” […]

Chua Quan Am (On Lang): Historic Fujian Temple in HCMC Chinatown

A Cultural Time Capsule in Cholon Nestled deep within Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling District 5, the Quan Am Pagoda (also known as On Lang Assembly Hall) is an essential stop in Cholon (Chinatown). Established as early as 1740 by Chinese immigrants from Fujian province, the pagoda is a living monument to the spiritual and […]

Vinh Nghiem Temple HCMC: Iconic Pagoda with Tallest Stone Stupa

The Sky-High Symbol of Unity Vinh Nghiem Temple is not just a place of worship; it is a profound symbol of the re-establishment and growth of Northern Vietnamese Buddhism (Mahayana sect) in the South. Initiated in 1964 and completed in 1971, it stands out for its unique blend of traditional Northern Vietnamese temple architecture with […]

Thien Hau Pagoda HCMC: Mazu, Goddess of the Sea in Chinatown

The Goddess of the Sea and the Chinese Heart of Saigon The Thien Hau Pagoda, or Chùa Bà Thiên Hậu, is the spiritual anchor of Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant Chợ Lớn (Chinatown). Built by the Cantonese community in the early 19th century, the temple is dedicated to Mazu (Thiên Hậu Thánh Mẫu), the Goddess […]

Jade Emperor Pagoda HCMC: Taoist Temple & Fertility Shrine

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 […]