Amid the countless temples in the bustling city, there’s a small yet sacred temple tucked away on a quiet plot of land, surrounded by lush greenery. This is the Jade Emperor Pagoda, a centuries-old gem that represents the deep-rooted culture, architecture, and spirituality of Vietnam. It is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a deeper connection to the country and its people.
A brief history of the Jade Emperor Pagoda
The Jade Emperor Pagoda, or Ngoc Hoang Pagoda, was built in the early 20th century by a devout Chinese Buddhist from Guangdong named Luu Minh. Originally, it was not only a place of worship for the Jade Emperor (Ngoc Hoang), the supreme deity in Chinese beliefs, but also a secret gathering spot where plans were made to overthrow the Qing dynasty.
Later, the pagoda came under the management of the venerable monk Thich Vinh Khuong and the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha. In 1984, it was officially renamed Phuoc Hai Pagoda, meaning “blessings from the sea,” but the name Ngoc Hoang Pagoda has remained popular due to its centuries-old connection with the people of Saigon.
How to get there
The Jade Emperor Pagoda is located at 73 Mai Thi Luu Street, Da Kao Ward, District 1, surrounded by numerous nearby attractions, making it an easy stop on your sightseeing itinerary.
Buses
Several public bus routes stop near the Jade Emperor Pagoda, including buses 150, 18, 45, 93, and 10. You can get off at a stop in the Da Kao area and walk to the pagoda. Alternatively, you can show a picture of the pagoda to the bus driver or conductor, and they’ll help you get off at the nearest stop.
Motorbikes
For a more thrilling experience, nothing beats joining the flow of traffic on Saigon’s streets. If you have an international driver’s license and experience riding in Southeast Asia, you can rent a motorbike to reach the Jade Emperor Pagoda. The temple offers a spacious motorbike parking area, with a parking fee based on donations placed in a box at the exit. Alternatively, you can book a motorbike via apps like Xanh SM, Grab, or Be. If you’re new to riding, you can request a slower pace from the driver through the app.
Taxis
If you’re traveling in a group or under the hot sun, a taxi is your best option. You can hail one right outside your hotel or book a ride through popular apps like Grab. Booking through an app allows you to check the route, add stops, and know the fare upfront, avoiding any haggling later. You can also choose to pay with a card or cash.
Jeeps
Make your trip even more memorable by traveling in a stylish convertible jeep. You’ll surely turn heads as you cruise through the streets of Saigon and enjoy an unforgettable experience. Your driver will also act as a guide, sharing interesting stories and fun facts along the way.
Things to do at the Jade Emperor Pagoda
Admire the paper mâché sculpture collection
One of the most unique features of the Jade Emperor Pagoda is its stunning collection of paper mâché sculptures that can’t be found elsewhere across the country. The figures in the main chamber of the temple, covered in a bleak and mystic ambiance, depict the meetings of the Gods with the Jade Emperor. The intricate craftsmanship by skilled artisans brings the temple’s rich spiritual stories to life. Be sure to take a moment to admire the incredible attention to detail: the facial expressions and gestures of each of the divine statues.
Explore the architectural fusion
The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a beautiful example of architectural fusion, blending traditional Chinese and Vietnamese styles. Vietnamese pagodas are usually marked with yellow or gold color; the Jade Emperor Pagoda, however, wears an unmatched pink with pronounced red trim and Chinese characters. As you walk through its halls, take note of the detailed wooden carvings, colorful tiles, and the harmonious design that reflects the cultural and spiritual exchange between two rich traditions. Don’t miss the terrace on the second floor on the right as you walk in, leading up to wooden creaking stairs, where you can see details of the roofs and get some fresh air.
Observe the fertility prayer ritual
A fascinating tradition at Jade Emperor Pagoda is the fertility prayer ritual. Couples visit the temple to ask for blessings for their children. Inside the small chamber on the left wing, Kim Hoa Thanh Mau (the Goddess is believed to have created humanity and overseen childbirth on Earth) reigns in the center. Around her are twelve Midwives, each of whom takes care of the baby’s body parts, ensuring a baby grows up healthily. Watch as devotees perform this age-old ceremony, invoking the gods for planting a seed inside their womb or for blessing them with an uneventful pregnancy. It’s a deeply meaningful experience that highlights the connection between faith and family in Vietnamese culture.
Practice the love and peace rituals
While at the Jade Emperor Pagoda, take part in the love and peace rituals, which involve offering incense and prayers for prosperity and personal harmony. These ceremonies are a peaceful, reflective experience, offering a chance to connect with the spiritual energy of the temple while seeking blessings for love and well-being. Many report that they’d meet the love of their life after sending prayers at the pagoda, making it a very common practice among the visitors of the site today.
Snap photos and shop for souvenirs
Don’t forget to capture the beauty of the pagoda with some photos! Be mindful that photographs are not allowed inside the pagoda, so the best place to snap some photos is in the front yard to fully capture its vibrant colors and stunning details. Afterward, stop by the souvenir stalls before leaving the temple to pick up traditional Vietnamese crafts, incense, and other keepsakes that will remind you of this unforgettable experience.
Practical tips
- Dress modestly and respectfully: The Jade Emperor Pagoda is a sacred place of worship, so visitors are required to dress modestly and respectfully. Shorts, short skirts, and sleeveless tops are not allowed inside the main hall. If you plan on visiting multiple sites, considering Saigon’s hot climate, you can wear a sleeveless top but bring a light jacket or shawl to cover up when entering the temple.
- Comfortable footwear: Visitors will be asked to leave their shoes outside, so opt for slip-on sandals or shoes with a back strap for convenience.
- Stay hydrated and keep cool: The inside of the pagoda can get hot and stuffy due to incense smoke from worshippers. We recommend bringing a handheld fan and water to keep yourself cool during your visit.
- A guided tour is recommended: To enhance your experience, consider joining a guided tour. It offers a deeper understanding of the temple’s history, cultural significance, and the fascinating stories behind it.
If you’re in Ho Chi Minh City, be sure to set aside an hour to visit this century-old pagoda. It’s an experience that will add deeper meaning to your trip.
