Emperor Jade Pagoda

Emperor Jade Pagoda was constructed at the beginning of the 20th Century by a community of Cantonese who migrated from Guangzhou province in Southwest China. The pagoda is a fine representation of Mahayanist branch of Buddhism that is practiced widely in Vietnam.

Emperor Jade Pagoda (Tortoise Pagoda) Highlights:

In the main area (main hall), the Emperor Jade Chua Ngoc Hoang or the 'God of the Heavens' reigns supreme. The Emperor decides who can enter this higher realm by aiding of two assistants. Following that those who can not pass this gate will meet with the formidable 'God of Hell', on the left, who will send sinners to one of the 10 levels of hell. Life in purgatory is magnificently if somewhat gruesomely represented by the intricate carvings on the temple wall, depicting different types of punishments that await transgressors.

In a different area, the goddess of fertility Kim Hua, encompassed by figures of women and small children, blesses childless couples who pray for an offspring here. The goddess of mercy Kuan Yin, who play a very important role in any Taoist temple, has an altar in a room on the top floor.

Emperor Jade Pagoda (Tortoise Pagoda) Attraction:

Emperor Jade Pagoda is a living and working temple very much in use by the locals who come here to prayer or make votive offerings of joss sticks, flowers, and light candles. With worshippers coming and going, the pagoda can get busy and feel a little cramped. Its dimly lit, the narrow passageways filled with smoke lend an atmospheric feel to the place, adding to its charm.

Emperor Jade Pagoda has an overcrowded tortoise pond in front of the shrine grounds and feeding the animals is considered part of the merit-making, temple-going rituals.

Opening Hours: 08:00 – 17:00 every day

Location: 73 Mai Thi Luu, Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.

Remarks: No entrance fee as well as visiting ticket but visitors can make donations.