Jade Emperor Pagoda

Of all the places of worship in Ho Chi Minh, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is one of the most visually stunning and is a must-see for any visitor to Vietnam.

Originally built at the start of the 20th century for the Cantonese community, the Jade Emperor Pagoda still functions as a place of worship for those of both Taoist and Buddhist faith.

The Jade Emperor is the supreme Taoist God it is he who decides who will enter heaven and who will be sent to hell. Once inside the pagoda you'll see an elaborate carving of the ruler himself, flanked by all his guardians. As you enter you will also notice that the courtyard is busy with monks, worshippers and tourists all paying their respects.

In the temple there are many halls and rooms, most of which are dedicated to specific deities, the goddesses of health and fertility, the Lord of Hell and the Buddha of the future. Exquisite woodwork and Chinese characters adorn the walls and hallways. One of the most popular sights is the infamous Hall of Ten Hells, where intricately carved wooden panels illustrate the ten layers of hell and the consequences of choosing a life of sin. Take a break from these atmospheric halls by heading up to the roof terrace where you can soak in the colourful sight of the pagoda's exterior.

Aside from being a gem among temples, the Jade Emperor is also known for its population of tortoises, so much so that its alternative name, Tortoise Pagoda, is widely used. Outside the temple you can even buy one of the small creatures and, as a symbol of hope, release it into the nearby pond.

With a multitude of visitors every day, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is always a hive of activity. To avoid the crowds, it is advisable to come first thing in the morning like the locals do. Be warned, the burning of joss sticks gives off a pungent smoke that can prove too much for some visitors and children, as can the ominously carved panels.

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is situated in District 1, Ho Chi Minh City and is open every day.