Vinh Nghiem Pagoda
Vinh Nghiem is one of the biggest pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City.
Location & History
Located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda is easily accessible by bike, bus, and car. It is approximately a 20-minute drive from Ben Thanh Market. This pagoda attracts thousands of devotees and visitors each year, particularly busy on the first and fifteenth days of the lunar months. The construction of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda began in 1964 and was completed in 1971.
Photo: travel.sygic.com
What to see
This 6,000-square-meter Mahayana Buddhist pagoda is divided into three main sections: the Shanman Gate (a three-archway gate), the Grand Hall, and the surrounding towers.
Photo by @klassen2705
Like other Mahayana Buddhist temples, Vinh Nghiem Pagoda venerates Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and Arahants (Louhans), rather than solely worshipping Buddha as seen in Theravada Buddhist temples. The Grand Hall is dedicated to the veneration of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and Arahants. In the center of the Grand Hall, there is a prominent altar where Buddha is worshipped, flanked by two Bodhisattvas on either side.
Photo: itourvn.com
The decorations throughout the building — including intricately carved wooden columns, frescoes, and paintings — are aligned with Mahayana Buddhist teachings as well as elements of astronomy. Moreover, the Kuan Yin Stupa, standing seven stories tall, is a significant highlight worth visiting. It is one of the largest stupas in Vietnam and has been frequently praised in the media for its remarkable architecture.
Before you leave, don’t forget to offer your prayers to Goddess Kuan Yin, who stands tall in the center of the yard, hoping she may bestow her blessings upon you as you depart.
Useful Information
- Location: Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City
- Best for: Family, couple, solo
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 8:00AM - 5:00PM
- Distance to city center: 6.8km (4.2 mi)
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