Vinh Nghiem Pagoda: A must-visit spot for peace in Saigon

Contents

1. An overview of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

Located at 339 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, District 3, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is a famous spiritual attraction in Ho Chi Minh City. With a rich history of over 50 years, it has been upholding significant spiritual values. Beyond being a sacred space for worship, the pagoda also serves as a cultural hub that fosters communal connections. Additionally, it is a place where monks and practitioners preach Buddhist teachings.

Vinh Nghiem Temple in Ho Chi Minh City (Source: Collected)

Discover: Vietnamese pagodas: 12 sacred sites to discover the spiritual essence

2. Things to know about the history of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

The construction of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda was initiated in 1964 by two monks, Thich Tam Giac and Thich Thanh Kiem. It was modeled after a wooden pagoda of the same name in Bac Giang Province. The construction was entirely funded by Buddhist followers at the time. By 1971, the construction was largely completed.

Initially, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda had a main hall, a Quan The Am Tower, and facilities for social activities. Over time, additional structures such as a Xa Loi Tower, a Stone Tower, and other facilities were added. Notably, the pagoda houses the Peace Bell, which was donated by Entsu-in Temple in Fukushima, Japan.

Explore: Jade Emperor Pagoda: A handy guide for first-time visitors

3. The outstanding features of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda

Spanning a vast area of 6,000 square meters, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is one of the most prominent examples of 20th-century Vietnamese Buddhist architecture. The overall structure of the pagoda includes a triple-arch gate, a main hall, and various towers. 

3.1. Triple-arch gate

Triple-arch gates are an impressive design element of traditional Northern Vietnamese pagodas. Upon entering Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, visitors are greeted by the striking gate with curved red-tiled roofs adorned with phoenix and cloud motifs. Flanking the gate are intricately carved couplets, with the name “Vinh Nghiem Pagoda” inscribed above.

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, Vietnam was built in 1971 (Source: Collected)

3.2. Main hall

The main hall is a solid two-story structure with a ground floor housing ancestral worship rooms, lecture halls, a library, and classrooms. Three wide staircases lead to the upper floor, which features a terrace, a Buddha hall, and the Quan The Am Tower. The terrace has a bell tower holding the Peace Bell. 

The Buddha hall is designed in the shape of the Chinese letter 工 (gong). It has curved roof edges adorned with phoenix motifs and a Dharma wheel at the peak. Inside, an altar exudes reverence, with statues of Buddha Shakyamuni in the center, Manjushri on the left, and Samantabhadra on the right. The hall also features Arhat paintings along the walls and large Vajra statues at the entrance.

3.3. Quan The Am Tower

On the left of the Buddha hall stands the imposing seven-story Quan The Am Tower, a symbol of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda. This stupa stands nearly 40 meters tall, with a square base measuring 6 meters per side. The tower’s peak is adorned with nine Dharma wheels and decorative elements known as Long Xa (dragons) and Quy Chau (turtles). It is one of the biggest Buddhist stupas in Vietnam.

3.4. Xa Loi Tower

Another highlight of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is the four-story Xa Loi Tower, built in 1982 and standing 25 meters tall. This tower serves as a repository for urns containing the ashes of the deceased, entrusted by their families. Visitors can climb the tower to pay respects.

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda’s photos showcase its serene charm (Source: Collected)

3.5. Stone Tower

The third stupa, Vinh Nghiem Stone Tower, was built in 2003. It has seven stories and stands 14 meters tall, featuring intricate stone carvings in the style of the Ly and Tran dynasties. It is the first and biggest stone tower in southern Vietnam.

3.6. Surroundings

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda’s serene architecture is complemented by its peaceful surroundings. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the calming ambiance of lush trees, water features, and sacred statues. The harmonious sound of Buddhist chants and temple bells enhances the spiritual atmosphere, making the pagoda an ideal place for finding inner peace.

Check out 20 places to visit in Ho Chi Minh City for your itinerary!

4. Guide for visitors to Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, Ho Chi Minh City

4.1. How to get there?

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is located in District 3, just over 3 kilometers away from the center of District 1 in Ho Chi Minh City. It takes about 10 minutes to reach the pagoda by motorbike or taxi. A recommended route is Nguyen Hue Street → Le Thanh Ton Street → Pasteur Street → Vo Thi Sau Street → Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street.

4.2. What to note?

When visiting Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind:

• Avoid burning incense or paper offerings to maintain a clean and fresh atmosphere.
• Bring vegetarian offerings instead of meat-based ones when paying respects.
• Dress modestly and respectfully.
• When taking photos, pose thoughtfully and avoid loud laughter or chatter.
• Enter the pagoda through the right gate and exit through the left, avoiding the central gate.

Discover 21 bucket-list things to do in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam!

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is a truly remarkable attraction that offers visitors a peaceful escape from the bustling city. With its stunning architecture, rich history, and serene environment, the pagoda is a place of spiritual reflection and cultural beauty.

In addition to pagodas, Ho Chi Minh City boasts various exciting attractions. For non-stop entertainment, head to VinWonders Grand Park, a new amusement park set to open on December 6, 2024 in Thu Duc City. Set in a beautiful natural landscape, VinWonders Grand Park offers the Tropical Island water park, the Dream Garden, an artificial beach, vibrant festivals, and a wide range of shopping – dining options.

VinWonders Grand Park is set to become a top destination for entertainment in Ho Chi Minh City

Grab the hottest deals at VinWonders!