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Ba Thien Hau Pagoda

Table of Contents
  2. Location
  3. Who is Thien Hau?
  5. History and Cultural Significance
  6. Architectural Highlights
  8. Rituals and Celebrations
  9. Visiting Experience
  10. Visitor Information
  11. Why You Should Visit Thien Hau Temple

Thien Hau Temple (Chùa Bà Thiên Hậu) is one of the oldest and most culturally significant temples in Ho Chi Minh City. Located in the bustling Chinatown district of Chợ Lớn, this temple is dedicated to Thiên Hậu Thánh Mẫu – the Goddess of the Sea, who is deeply revered by the Chinese community.

Location

  • Address: 710 Nguyễn Trãi Street, Ward 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

  • Area: Located in Chinatown (Chợ Lớn) – a vibrant cultural hub of Chinese-Vietnamese heritage.

Who is Thien Hau?

  • Thien Hau (also known as Mazu or Tianhou) is a sea goddess in Chinese folk religion and Taoism.

  • She is believed to protect fishermen, sailors, and travelers, especially during ocean voyages.

  • The worship of Thien Hau reflects the strong maritime roots of the Chinese immigrants who settled in southern Vietnam centuries ago.

History and Cultural Significance

  • Built in the early 19th century (around 1760–1800) by Chinese immigrants from Guangdong (Quảng Đông).

  • Over the centuries, it has become a spiritual and community center for generations of Chinese-Vietnamese residents.

  • It is recognized as a national architectural and artistic heritage site of Vietnam.

Architectural Highlights

  • Chinese-style architecture: The temple is an excellent example of southern Chinese temple design, with a curved tiled roof, wooden beams, intricate carvings, and ceramic decorations.

  • Roof sculptures: The most stunning feature is the ceramic diorama sculptures on the roof, which depict scenes from Chinese legends, folktales, and daily life.

  • Central altar: Houses the statue of Thien Hau, flanked by her loyal guardians.

  • Incense coils: Large spiral incense coils hang from the ceiling, filling the air with a mystical scent and smoke.

Rituals and Celebrations

  • Worshippers come to pray for:

    • Safe travels

    • Family well-being

    • Fertility and health

  • Major festival:

    • Thien Hau’s Birthday (on the 23rd day of the 3rd lunar month)

    • Includes lion dances, incense offerings, and a grand procession through the streets of Chinatown.

Visiting Experience

  • Atmosphere: Spiritual, fragrant with incense, and often bustling with local devotees.

  • Photogenic: A popular destination for photographers thanks to its rich colors, textures, and cultural depth.

  • Open to all: Tourists are welcome, as long as they dress respectfully and behave with reverence.

Visitor Information

  • Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM daily

  • Entrance fee: Free

  • Best time to visit: Morning hours for a quiet atmosphere; during festivals to witness vibrant culture

  • Dress code: Modest clothing recommended

Why You Should Visit Thien Hau Temple

  • It’s one of the oldest Chinese temples in Saigon, rich in history and spirituality

  • Offers a unique look into the traditions of the Chinese-Vietnamese community

  • An architectural gem and a peaceful retreat in the middle of the city

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