A beautiful reason to get out of District 1! This hall is accessible by public bus, free to enter, and offers a humbling experience that makes you stop and stare for many minutes. The intricate and devoted work put into building and maintaining a place like this is commendable! We walked south afterward through a hardware district to the canal, which was quiet with colorful laundry hanging out to dry. A peaceful, contemplative morning amidst the bustling Saigon. I highly recommend Tue Thanh for anyone wanting a moment of pause.
Thien Hau pagoda is a popular site in Saigon's China Town. Many people visit to admire the ancient architecture that reflects old Chinese history. This site is open every day with no entry fee required. It's a favorite spot for young people to take photos. Unfortunately, part of the pagoda is under construction, so if you want to see the complete view, it’s best to return in a month or two. You can photograph or film as much as you like, but please keep the noise to a minimum.
This temple boasts beautiful decorations both outside and inside. The numerous incense sticks create a special atmosphere. It is an old and remarkable temple.
The Tue Thanh Assembly Hall is a stunning and historic site in Ho Chi Minh City, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of the local Chinese-Vietnamese community. The architecture is intricate, featuring remarkable woodwork, traditional carvings, and detailed decorations that reflect the hall's historical significance. While it is smaller and quieter compared to other landmarks in the city, it is a peaceful spot to explore and learn about the region's history. If you're interested in culture and history, this hidden gem is definitely worth a visit.
When the Chinese people arrived in Southern Vietnam hundreds of years ago, they brought their culture and religion with them, enriching the region's cultural diversity. In the 17th century, a group of Chinese immigrants built Thien Hau Pagoda to honor Thien Hau (Mazu), a Chinese deity. Since then, the pagoda has undergone several restorations. Worshipping Thien Hau remains a traditional custom among the Chinese community in the city today. In front of the pagoda, there’s an altar for Phuc Duc Chinh Than (God of Land) on the right and Mon Quan Vuong Ta (God of Gatekeeping) on the left. You can also find stone steles narrating the legend of Thien Hau, along with paintings depicting her on the waves. In the central hall, five exquisitely sculpted urns are displayed, accompanied by a dragon boat figure and an ancient palanquin, used during the pagoda festival that commemorates her passing. The back hall, which serves as the main hall of Thien Hau Pagoda, consists of three compartments: the central chamber features a statue of Thien Hau, carved from ancient wood, and two additional deity statues; while the two side chambers contain statues of Quan Thanh (Guan Yu), Dia Tang (Bodhisattva), and Than Tai (God of Wealth).
