Thien Hau Pagoda: The Heart of Chinatown
Visit one of the oldest Chinese temples in Saigon. Famous for its massive hanging incense coils and beautiful porcelain carvings, this temple is the spiritual soul of the historic Cholon area.
A. Overview
The Thien Hau Pagoda, built in 1760, is one of the oldest and most beautiful temples in Ho Chi Minh City. Located in the heart of Chinatown (Cholon), it is dedicated to Mazu, the Goddess of the Sea. The temple is a masterpiece of traditional Cantonese architecture, featuring intricate porcelain dioramas on the roof and a peaceful courtyard filled with incense smoke.
B. Price & Services
- Entrance Fee: Free (Welcome to all).
- Incense Coils: You can buy a large incense coil (about 20,000 - 50,000 VND) to hang from the ceiling with your name and wish on a yellow paper.
- Opening Hours: 06:30 AM - 05:30 PM.
- Last Update: May 13, 2026
- 👉 [WhatsApp us to explore Saigon’s Chinatown]
C. Useful Tips
- Incense Smoke: The temple is famous for its massive hanging incense coils that can burn for weeks. The smoke can be quite thick, so be prepared if you have sensitive eyes or breathing.
- Photography: The sunlight hitting the incense smoke in the courtyard creates a magical atmosphere for photography. Please be quiet and respectful of people praying while taking photos.
- Detail: Look up at the roof and walls to see hundreds of small porcelain figures telling ancient Chinese legends. The detail is absolutely amazing.
- Location: After visiting the pagoda, you can explore the nearby Binh Tay Market or the local herb shops along Hai Thuong Lan Ong Street.
D. VnToYou Advice
“We always suggest visiting Thien Hau Pagoda in the morning to experience the local religious life. For our groups, we often arrange a ‘Chinatown Exploration’ tour that includes a ride on a local cyclo through the narrow streets of District 5. It’s a great way to see a different, more traditional side of Saigon that many tourists miss.”