Jade Emperor Pagoda

Jade Emperor Pagoda featuring a temple or place of worship, religious elements and interior views
This impressive temple of worship features spectacularly carved woodwork, figurines and spiritual art.

Of all the places of worship in Ho Chi Minh, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the most visually stunning and is a must-see for any visitor to Vietnam.

Originally built at the start of the 20th century for the Cantonese community, the Jade Emperor Pagoda still functions as a place of worship for those of both Taoist and Buddhist faith.

The Jade Emperor is the supreme Taoist God it is he who decides who will enter heaven and who will be sent to hell. Once inside the pagoda you'll see an elaborate carving of the ruler himself, flanked by all his guardians. As you enter you will also notice that the courtyard is busy with monks, worshippers and tourists all paying their respects.

In the temple there are many halls and rooms, most of which are dedicated to specific deities, the goddesses of health and fertility, the Lord of Hell and the Buddha of the future. Exquisite woodwork and Chinese characters adorn the walls and hallways. One of the most popular sights is the infamous Hall of Ten Hells, where intricately carved wooden panels illustrate the ten layers of hell and the consequences of choosing a life of sin. Take a break from these atmospheric halls by heading up to the roof terrace where you can soak in the colourful sight of the pagoda's exterior.

Aside from being a gem among temples, the Jade Emperor is also known for its population of tortoises, so much so that its alternative name, Tortoise Pagoda, is widely used. Outside the temple you can even buy one of the small creatures and, as a symbol of hope, release it into the nearby pond.

With a multitude of visitors every day, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is always a hive of activity. To avoid the crowds, it is advisable to come first thing in the morning like the locals do. Be warned, the burning of joss sticks gives off a pungent smoke that can prove too much for some visitors and children, as can the ominously carved panels.

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is situated in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City and is open every day.

Bluesky MarQ Luxury Vaccation
Winsuites Saigon
La Vela Saigon Hotel
Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Popular places to visit


Top Jade Emperor Pagoda Hotel Deals

Wink Hotel Saigon Centre
Wink Hotel Saigon Centre
4 out of 5
75 Nguyen Binh Khiem Street, Dakao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Wink Hotel Saigon Centre
La Vela Saigon Hotel
La Vela Saigon Hotel
4.5 out of 5
280 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ward 8, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
La Vela Saigon Hotel
Orchids Saigon Hotel
Orchids Saigon Hotel
4 out of 5
192 Pasteur Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Orchids Saigon Hotel
Sherwood Residence
Sherwood Residence
4.5 out of 5
127 Pasteur Street, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Sherwood Residence
Lotte Hotel Saigon
Lotte Hotel Saigon
5 out of 5
2A-4A Ton Duc Thang Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Lotte Hotel Saigon
Caravelle Saigon
Caravelle Saigon
5 out of 5
19 - 23 Lam Son Square, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Caravelle Saigon
Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint
Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint
4 out of 5
59 - 61 Pasteur Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Liberty Central Saigon Citypoint
Bay Hotel Ho Chi Minh
Bay Hotel Ho Chi Minh
4 out of 5
7 Ngo Van Nam Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City
Bay Hotel Ho Chi Minh
Mai House Saigon Hotel
Mai House Saigon Hotel
5 out of 5
157 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street ,, Vo Thi Sau Ward , District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
Mai House Saigon Hotel
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.