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Jade Emperor Pagoda

Southeast Asia

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Vietnam

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Ho Chi Minh City

Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the most atmospheric temples in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The temple, known as Ngoc Hoang Pagoda, was built in 1909 by the Cantonese community who migrated from Guangzhou province in Southwest China. Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the five most important temples in Ho Chi Minh City. It pays homage to the Jade Emperor or King of Heaven, Ngoc Hoang as the supreme deity of Taoism, and represents the branch of Mahayana Buddhism that is widely practiced in Vietnam. Besides being used as a place of worship, Jade Emperor Pagoda has also attracted the attention of many foreign tourists. Be sure not to miss this historic temple when in Ho Chi Minh City.

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Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, District 1

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Where is the Jade Emperor Pagoda located?

The temple is located in the center of Ho Chi Minh City, at 73 Mai Thi Luu, District 3. It is open daily from 7am to 6pm local time. You can visit and enjoy this historical building in Ho Chi Minh City without making a reservation.

What is the attraction of Jade Emperor Pagoda?

One of the most prominent attractions of this temple is that it is 115 years old. Yet it still stands strong, luring many people to visit. The temple was built in the early 20th century by a Chinese merchant who practiced Buddhism, Taoism and Confucianism. Taoists believe that the main god is the creator of the universe, the ruler of heaven, earth and hell.

What will you find at Jade Emperor Pagoda?

At this temple you will be greeted by various unique statues of imaginary gods and heroes. Like inside the main building, there are two very fierce and menacing Taoist figures. On the right side of the altar, there is a 4 meter tall statue of the general who defeated the Green Dragon. On the left, there is the general who defeated the White Tiger, who is also being stepped on. If Taoists in Vietnam are visiting, you may also see worshipers gathered before the indescribable Jade Emperor, presiding in lavish robes and enveloped in thick incense smoke. The Jade Emperor is flanked by his bodyguards, the Four Great Diamonds (Tu Dai Kim Cuong). It is said that the name was given because the bodyguards are hard as diamonds. This scene is usually seen in the main sanctuary. There was also a semi-enclosed area on the other side of the Jade Emperor's room. The room is presided over by Thanh Hoang, the Head of Hell and his red horse. Other figures here represent the gods who mete out punishment for evil deeds and rewards for good deeds. One of the most famous in the room is the Hall of Ten Hells, which is a carved wooden panels depicting the various torments that await the wicked in each of the Ten Regions of Hell. On the other side is a small room where there is a ceramic statue with 12 women Each woman exemplifies a human trait, good or bad. Each number represents one year in the 12 year Chinese astrological calendar. The leader of this room is Kim Hoa Thanh Mau, Chairman of All Women. Upstairs is a hall for Quan Am, the Goddess of Compassion, opposite a portrait of Dat Ma, the bearded Indian founder of Zen Buddhism. Outside the temple is a small pond filled with turtles, some of which have shells marked with auspicious inscriptions.

How to get to Jade Emperor Pagoda?

The easiest way to travel to Jade Emperor Pagoda is by motorbike. You can rent a motorbike to travel for a few days in Vietnam. Motorbikes will make your travel mobility more practical. But if you don't want to bother, you can use a taxi. Especially if you depart from the Independence Palace. The ride will take about 10 minutes, but you can sit comfortably. If you're feeling a bit adventurous, you can choose for a bus. Walking is also an option, especially if you're staying at a hotel near the temple.

How much is the Jade Emperor ticket entrance?

The temple is free to visit, but a number of donation boxes are scattered around the temple. Also, there is no specific dress code for visiting the temple. But out of respect, it's best to wear clothes that cover your shoulders and knees, and are comfortable.

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