Thien Hau Temple (Ba Thien Hau Pagoda) is a historic Chinese temple located in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon), Vietnam. Dedicated to Mazu (Thien Hau Thanh Mau), the Taoist and Chinese sea goddess, it is one of the most important and oldest temples in the city’s Chinatown (Cho Lon).
History & Significance
Built in the 1760s by Cantonese immigrants, it serves as a spiritual and cultural hub for the Chinese-Vietnamese community.
The temple honors Mazu, the protector of sailors and fishermen, reflecting the maritime traditions of Chinese migrants.
Architecture
Traditional Cantonese-style design with intricate carvings, ceramic tile decorations, and a curved roof.
The temple has three main halls with altars dedicated to Mazu, Quan Am (Guanyin), and other deities.
The roof and walls feature detailed porcelain dioramas depicting Chinese legends.
Cultural & Religious Practices
Worshippers burn incense coils (hanging in the courtyard) for blessings.
The temple is especially busy during Mazu’s birthday (23rd day of the 3rd lunar month) and Tet (Lunar New Year).
Location
710 Nguyen Trai Street, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City (in the heart of Cho Lon).
Best Time to Visit: Early morning or during festivals for a vibrant atmosphere.
Etiquette: Dress modestly, avoid loud noises, and follow local worshippers’ customs.
Nearby Attractions: Binh Tay Market, Quan Am Pagoda, and other Cho Lon landmarks.
Thien Hau Temple is not only a religious site but also a must-visit cultural gem in Saigon, offering a glimpse into Vietnam’s Chinese heritage.
To get to Thiên Hậu Temple (Bà Thiên Hậu Pagoda) in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, you can follow these directions:
📍 Thiên Hậu Temple (Chùa Bà Thiên Hậu)
710 Nguyễn Trãi, Phường 11, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City
The easiest way is to take a taxi or use a ride-hailing app like Grab.
Enter the address: “Chùa Bà Thiên Hậu, 710 Nguyễn Trãi, Quận 5”.
Travel time: ~15-20 mins from District 1 (depending on traffic).
Bus routes: 06, 54, 93, 94, 139
Nearest bus stop: “Chợ Lớn Bus Station” or “Nguyễn Trãi – Châu Văn Liêm”.
Navigate to 710 Nguyễn Trãi, District 5.
Parking is available nearby (usually ~5,000–10,000 VND).
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Nearby attractions: Chợ Lớn (Chinatown), Bình Tây Market, Quan Âm Pagoda.
Dress code: Modest clothing (covered shoulders and knees) as it’s a religious site.
Thien Hau Temple (also known as Ba Thien Hau Pagoda) in Ho Chi Minh City is a beautiful and historic Chinese-style temple dedicated to Lady Thien Hau, the goddess of the sea and protector of sailors. Here’s what you can do when visiting:
The temple features elaborate ceramic tilework, intricate wood carvings, and statues of deities.
Look for the roof decorations with scenes from Chinese mythology made from broken pottery and porcelain.
Light incense sticks and make a wish (it’s customary to circle them around the main altar).
Observe locals performing traditional rituals and leaving offerings.
The temple has multiple altars dedicated to different deities, including Quan Cong (a righteous general) and Fu De (the god of wealth).
Check out the elaborate bronze incense burners and hanging lanterns.
Small model boats are displayed as offerings for safe voyages (reflecting Lady Thien Hau’s role as a protector of sailors).
Watch as worshippers burn joss paper (fake money and items) for good fortune.
The temple is often filled with the scent of incense and the sound of chanting.
Take a moment to sit and observe the daily rituals of devotees.
The temple is especially lively during Chinese New Year (Tet) and the Thien Hau Festival (23rd day of the 3rd lunar month), with lion dances and processions.
The temple is located in District 5, the heart of Saigon’s Chinatown.
Nearby attractions:
Binh Tay Market (wholesale market with local goods)
Quan Am Pagoda (another beautiful Chinese temple)
Cha Tam Church (a historic Catholic church)
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
Entrance is free, but donations are welcome.
Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.
Thien Hau Temple (also known as Ba Thien Hau Pagoda) in Ho Chi Minh City is a beautiful and historic Chinese temple dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau (Mazu), the protector of sailors and fishermen. Here are some useful tips for visiting:
Early morning (8 AM – 10 AM) or late afternoon (3 PM – 5 PM) to avoid crowds.
Avoid weekends and Vietnamese/Chinese holidays if you prefer a quieter experience.
The temple is especially lively during Thien Hau Festival (23rd day of the 3rd lunar month) with lion dances and ceremonies.
Modest clothing (cover shoulders and knees).
Remove hats before entering.
Be respectful—avoid loud talking, and follow worshippers’ lead when observing rituals.
No pointing feet at altars or statues (considered disrespectful).
Three Thien Hau statues (main altar) – intricately carved and dressed in silk robes.
Fragrant coils (incense spirals) hanging from the ceiling—symbolize prayers rising to heaven.
Ceramic dioramas on the roof depicting Chinese legends.
Courtyard and side altars dedicated to other deities.
Light incense sticks (available for purchase) and bow three times.
Make a wish or give thanks to Thien Hau.
Donate a small amount in the donation boxes if you wish.
Ask permission before photographing worshippers.
No flash near altars.
Best shots: incense coils, roof decorations, and the main hall.
Binh Tay Market (Wholesale market with great souvenirs).
Quan Am Pagoda (Another beautiful Chinese temple nearby).
Cholon (Chinatown) – Explore more temples and local food.
Address: 710 Nguyen Trai, District 5, Ho Chi Minh City.
Taxi/Grab: Easiest way (costs around 100,000 – 150,000 VND from District 1).
Bus: Take routes 1, 54, or 139 (check updates as routes may change).
Free entry, but donations are appreciated.
Small incense & offerings can be bought at the entrance.
Watch your belongings (pickpocketing can happen in crowded areas).
Beware of motorbikes when crossing streets in Cholon.
The Thien Hau Temple (Ba Thien Hau Pagoda) in Ho Chi Minh City is a beautiful and historic Chinese-style temple dedicated to the Goddess of the Sea, Mazu. To make the most of your visit, consider the following tips for the best time to go:
Early Morning (7:00 AM – 9:00 AM)
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Ideal for peaceful exploration and photography.
Weekdays (Monday – Friday)
Less crowded than weekends.
More serene atmosphere for prayer and reflection.
Lunar Festival Days (Especially the 23rd day of the 3rd Lunar Month)
Thien Hau’s Birthday (around April-May) is the biggest celebration, featuring lion dances, rituals, and vibrant decorations.
Chinese New Year (Tet Nguyen Dan) and Mid-Autumn Festival also bring special ceremonies and crowds.
Weekends & Public Holidays – Can be very crowded.
Midday (11:00 AM – 3:00 PM) – Hot and humid, with peak visitor numbers.
Dress modestly (shoulders and knees covered).
Bring incense (or buy some there) for offerings.
Explore nearby attractions like Binh Tay Market and other Chinatown landmarks.