en
Tiếng Việt 
中文 (中国) 
한국어 
28/04/2024
92 views
Xa Loi Buddhist Temple is an unmissable attraction on any Saigon tour (Source: Collected)
In a complete Ho Chi Minh City travel plan, beyond indulging in its scenic beauty and culinary wonders, a visit to Xa Loi Buddhist Temple for blessings of peace, health, and fortune is a must. Join us as we unravel the mystique of this renowned temple in the article below!
1. Overview of Xa Loi Buddhist Temple
- Address: No. 89, Ba Huyen Thanh Quan Street, Ward 7, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Operating time: The temple is open every day to the public:
- Morning: 7:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Afternoon: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Evening: 6:00 PM – 7:00 PM
- On special occasions, Xa Loi Temple is open from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
This temple, one of Saigon’s largest, boasts a modern architectural style and spans over 2,400 square meters. With its diverse cultural treasures and serene atmosphere, Xa Loi Buddhist Temple is a captivating testament to Vietnam’s vibrant Buddhist heritage, inviting visitors of all kinds to explore its spiritual essence.
Read more: Ho Chi Minh City map: A compass for first-time tourists
The unique architecture of Xa Loi Temple (Source: Collected)
2. Reasons why Xa Loi Buddhist Temple is totally worth a visit
Xa Loi Temple is a must-visit place for its rich history, stunning architecture, and serene atmosphere. With its cultural significance and tranquil ambiance, the temple offers visitors a profound experience that is truly worth exploring.
2.1. Long-standing history
Xa Loi Buddhist Temple was built from 1956 to 1958 and served as the headquarters for the South Vietnamese Buddhist Association until 1981. From 1981 to May 1993, it functioned as the headquarters of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha.
Between 1999 and 2001, the temple underwent significant restoration efforts while maintaining its original design and preserving its distinct architectural values.
The temple’s history is intertwined with the self-immolation event of monk Thich Quang Duc, who protested the oppressive policies towards Buddhists by the government of Ngo Dinh Diem.
Xa Loi Temple has a glorious history (Source: Collected)
2.2. Stunning architecture
Xa Loi Temple is a notable landmark in Saigon, celebrated for its fusion of traditional and contemporary architectural designs. The temple grounds encompass various structures, including the three-arched entrance gate, main hall, lecture hall, bell tower, landscaped gardens, and other significant facilities.
The temple has two three-arched entrance gates: one on Ba Huyen Thanh Quan Street and another on Su Thien Chieu Street. Furthermore, when visiting Xa Loi Temple, tourists also have the opportunity to admire unique architectural structures such as:
- Bell tower, once towering as Vietnam’s tallest, boasts a captivating structure of seven tiers. Each tier, featuring an octagonal structure, venerates a different Buddha. On the top floor hangs a bronze bell of 2 tons in weight, 1.2 meters in diameter, and 1.6 meters high.
The solemn main hall of Xa Loi Buddhist Temple (Source: Collected)
- 2-story building: Xa Loi Temple in Saigon features a distinctive two-story design: the upper floor is the main worship hall, while the lower floor serves as the lecture hall. The main hall features unique architecture spanning over 400 square meters. Its abundant large windows invite ample natural light, creating a comfortable and airy ambiance. The lecture hall on the ground floor has 400 seats and is surrounded by a library and monks’ quarters.
- Other prominent features: To the left of the main hall courtyard stands a large Bodhi tree from Colombia, serving as both a picturesque addition to the temple grounds and a symbolic representation of Buddhism. Beside the tree is a statue of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara, sculpted in 1958.
The green courtyard of Xa Loi Temple (Source: Collected)
Discover: 20 places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City for your itinerary
2.3. Invaluable cultural treasures
Xa Loi Buddhist Temple has been preserving various invaluable cultural treasures, such as:
- The lacquered board with the four words “Dong Thuy Phap Vu” was inscribed by Empress Tu Hy.
- The golden stupa, containing the Buddha relics, was given by Dharma Master Dien Boi from Taiwan.
- The bronze tower, featuring a unique design from India, was gifted by the Indian Consulate in Vietnam.
- The ancient Pali scriptures, written on palm leaves dating back over 1000 years, record the precious teachings of the Buddha when he turned the Dharma wheel.
Many locals and tourists visit the temple for sightseeing and worship (Source: Collected)
2.4. Countless religious activities
Xa Loi Temple serves as both a sacred place for worship and a hub for educational and cultural activities for Buddhists. The preaching schedule and religious activities take place according to the following timetable:
- Preaching schedule: every Sunday morning.
- Religious education classes: every Sunday.
- Calligraphy class schedule: on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Sundays, taught by Calligrapher Chinh Trung.
- Xa Loi Temple Library: open from Monday to Sunday. The library houses more than 3000 Buddhist books, calligraphy paintings, and cultural items.
A preaching session at Xa Loi Buddhist Temple (Source: Collected)
Check out: 21 bucket list things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
3. Essential tips for your first visit to Xa Loi Buddhist Temple
Visitors are strongly advised to remember essential tips for a seamless and trouble-free exploration.
- Light only one incense stick and avoid burning excessive amounts.
- Dress respectfully, avoiding revealing clothing like short dresses, tank tops, shorts, etc.
- Maintain a quiet demeanor and walk softly.
- Refrain from touching artifacts.
- Dispose of trash properly, and avoid littering.
- Be mindful of your belongings, especially during crowded occasions at the temple.
Tourists should adhere to the regulations when visiting the temple (Source: Collected)
4. Best places to visit near Xa Loi Buddhist Temple
In addition to Xa Loi Buddhist Temple, Saigon boasts numerous captivating sights that are worth exploring, including:
- Ben Thanh Market: As a symbol of the city’s heritage, this market showcases stunning French architecture and a wide array of merchandise.
- War Remnants Museum: A testament to the brutal realities of the Second Indochina War and its profound impact on the Vietnamese people.
- Notre Dame Cathedral of Saigon: An iconic symbol of the city, boasting unique and grand religious structures.
- Jade Emperor Pagoda: An ancient sanctuary offering solace and spiritual nourishment to those seeking peace of mind.
- Tan Dinh Church: An ancient pink-hued structure symbolizing religion, reminiscent of a sweet and beautiful cake.
Ben Thanh Market (Source: Collected)
Xa Loi Buddhist Temple is a peaceful sanctuary, attracting visitors seeking moments of contemplation during their Vietnam travel itinerary. Its peaceful ambiance offers a haven of inner harmony amidst the urban bustle. As a bastion of Buddhist tradition, the temple also hosts weekly religious gatherings for devout followers and seekers of Buddhist wisdom.
Besides Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam boasts a wide range of other enchanting tourist destinations for you to explore, such as Hanoi, Ha Long, Hoi An, Nha Trang, and Phu Quoc.
Among various entertainment options, don’t miss out on the exhilarating experience of VinWonders, the premier entertainment brand found in many key tourist hubs. These amusement parks promise an unforgettable adventure, brimming with exciting activities for you, your family, and friends to enjoy together.
VinWonders, where experiences transcend imagination
To elevate your experiences in these destinations, it is highly recommended to stay and indulge at the exceptional hotels and resorts of Vinpearl.
Experience the luxury of Vinpearl during your travels to Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Hoi An, and Ha Long
Book tickets to VinWonders Phu Quoc, Nha Trang, Nam Hoi An, VinKE & Vinpearl Aquarium and VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park for an opulent travel experience!
