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Join Mytour to explore the best temple destinations in Saigon, perfect for you and your loved ones to pray for peace and blessings during the New Year.
1. Jade Emperor Pagoda – District 1
Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the most sacred and renowned temples in Saigon, featuring classic Chinese architecture. The main worship areas include the Jade Emperor Hall, dedicated to the supreme deity in Taoism, and the Thien Hau Holy Mother Hall, a protector of families and children. Additionally, the temple honors Kim Hoa Holy Mother and the 12 Midwives, making it a sacred place for those praying for children. This is an ideal destination for seeking peace and blessings during the New Year.
Address: 73 Mai Thi Luu, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening hours: 7 AM – 6 PM (daily)
During Tet: Opens earlier around 6 AM and may extend into late hours, especially on New Year's Eve, the 1st, and 2nd days of Tet
2. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda – District 3
One of the top destinations for New Year temple visits in Saigon is Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, located in District 3. Situated in the bustling city center, the pagoda maintains a serene and peaceful atmosphere. This Mahayana Buddhist temple, modeled after the ancient Vinh Nghiem Pagoda in Bac Giang, was constructed in 1964 and has been operational since 1971. The spacious, green grounds feature notable structures such as the main hall, Quan The Am Tower, Xa Loi Community Tower, Vinh Nghiem Tower, and guest halls.
Address: 339 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia, Ward 7, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening hours: 7 AM – 9 PM (daily)
During Tet, the pagoda often opens earlier and stays open later, especially on New Year's Eve and the first two days of Tet
3. Xa Loi Pagoda – District 3
Xa Loi Pagoda is one of the largest and most religiously significant temples in Saigon. Its design blends traditional Buddhist architecture with modern elements, highlighted by a 7-story, 32-meter-high stupa. This pagoda houses sacred Buddhist relics and regularly hosts chanting and prayer sessions. It also boasts cultural and artistic treasures, including a large bronze bell, murals, and intricate carvings. During the New Year, Xa Loi Pagoda becomes an ideal destination for families to offer prayers for a prosperous year ahead.
Address: 89 Ba Huyen Thanh Quan, Ward 7, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening hours:
+ Morning: 7 AM – 11 AM
+ Afternoon: 2 PM – 5 PM
+ Evening: 6 PM – 7 PM
During Tet: The pagoda opens from 7 AM to 9 PM to welcome Buddhists and visitors
4. Thien Hau Temple – District 5
Thien Hau Temple is renowned for its ancient architecture and rich Chinese cultural influences. Featuring curved tiled roofs, intricate dragon and phoenix carvings, and elaborate decorative reliefs, the temple is adorned with vibrant red lanterns along its pathways. Not only is it a popular destination for New Year temple visits in Saigon, but it’s also a famous spot for traditional ao dai photoshoots, enhancing the elegance of this iconic attire. Visitors can also seek fortune sticks or collect blessings during the early days of the New Year here.
Address: 710 Nguyen Trai, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening hours: 6:30 AM – 4:30 PM
During Tet: Extended opening hours on New Year's Eve and the 1st day of Tet
5. Ong Pagoda – District 5
Ong Pagoda (also known as Nghia An Assembly Hall) is a renowned spiritual site in District 5, Ho Chi Minh City. Designed with traditional Chinese architecture, it features curved tiled roofs, intricately carved dragon and phoenix pillars, and elaborate reliefs. This culturally rich space is not only perfect for capturing New Year moments but also offers a serene atmosphere for reflection. It’s a sacred destination where locals and visitors come to pray for peace, prosperity, and health in the New Year.
Address: 678 Nguyen Trai, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening hours: 6 AM – 5:30 PM (daily)
During Tet: Typically opens early (around 5:30 AM) and remains open until late evening
6. Vietnam Quoc Tu Pagoda – District 10
Another recommended destination for New Year temple visits in Saigon is Vietnam Quoc Tu Pagoda. This temple embodies Vietnamese cultural identity and holds significant historical and cultural value, attracting numerous visitors annually. Its standout feature is a 13-story, 63-meter-high stupa, with each floor dedicated to worshipping different Buddhas and Bodhisattvas. The pagoda boasts a serene green courtyard and a spacious main hall, making it an ideal stop during your New Year journey to pray for blessings and good fortune.
Address: 244 3 Thang 2 Street, Ward 12, District 10, Ho Chi Minh City
Opening hours: 6 AM – 9 PM (daily)
During Tet: Typically opens from 5 AM to around 10 PM during the first days of the New Year, especially on the 1st, 2nd, 3rd days, and New Year's Eve.
7. Giac Lam Pagoda – Tan Binh
Recognized as one of the oldest temples in Saigon, this sacred site preserves the historical and cultural essence of Buddhism. Established in 1744, it has witnessed the region's historical ups and downs and is now honored as a National Architectural and Artistic Heritage. The temple features traditional architecture with yin-yang tiled roofs, symbolizing the harmony between strength and softness, heaven and earth. Its serene natural surroundings, including a lotus pond and landscaped garden, make it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and photography. During the Lunar New Year, it becomes a meaningful destination for visiting temples in Saigon.
Address: 565 Lac Long Quan, Ward 10, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening Hours: 6 AM – 9 PM (daily)
During Tet: 5:30 AM – 10 PM, with extended hours until late on New Year's Eve.
8. Buu Long Pagoda – District 9
Another recommendation for residents of Thu Duc City seeking a place for New Year blessings is Buu Long Pagoda. A proud example of Theravada Buddhist architecture, it showcases a blend of cultural influences with designs reminiscent of Indian, Thai, and Nguyen Dynasty temples. Located slightly away from the city center, it offers a spacious and tranquil environment with a tree-lined path leading to the pagoda. Visitors can immerse themselves in moments of peace, leaving behind daily worries. It provides a unique experience during the traditional Tet festival.
Address: 81 Nguyen Xien, Long Binh Ward, District 9, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 6 PM (daily) (between 11 AM and 2 PM, visitors can only explore the exterior).
During Tet: From 7 AM to 7 PM, with extended hours on New Year's Eve.
9. Hoang Phap Pagoda – Hoc Mon District
Founded in 1957 by the late Venerable Ngo Chan Tu, Hoang Phap Pagoda has become one of the most beautiful and renowned temples in Saigon. The pagoda boasts stunning natural scenery and a serene atmosphere. Its spacious grounds and elegant architecture make it an ideal destination for a New Year visit. It has been a popular choice for locals during previous Lunar New Year celebrations, offering a sacred and solemn space to welcome spring blessings.
Address: 356 National Highway 22, Tan Hiep Commune, Hoc Mon District, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening Hours: 7 AM – 6 PM (daily)
During Tet: Opens at 6:30 AM and may extend until 8 PM
According to Mytour.vn
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Reference: Travel Guide by Mytour.vn
Mytour.vnDecember 26, 2024
