Ba Thien Hau Temple

Temple in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

CC BY-SA3.0 / 兵庫胡志明倶楽部

Ba Thien Hau Temple (Tue Thanh Assembly Hall), located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City’s Cholon district, is one of the oldest and most significant Chinese temples in the city. Dedicated to Thien Hau, the Goddess of the Sea, this temple holds great cultural and religious importance for the Chinese-Vietnamese community. It is particularly revered by fishermen and sailors who come to seek her protection and blessings for safe travels and abundant harvests. The temple’s traditional Chinese architecture, with its ornate carvings, intricate sculptures, and vibrant red and gold colors, draws visitors in, offering both a spiritual experience and a visual feast.

Inside the Ba Thien Hau Temple, the air is thick with the scent of incense as worshippers light offerings in reverence to the goddess. The main altar features a beautiful statue of Thien Hau, surrounded by other deities and figures from Chinese folklore. The temple’s interior is adorned with detailed woodwork, murals, and calligraphy, all contributing to its rich cultural and religious atmosphere. The architectural design reflects traditional Chinese style, with curved roofs, dragon motifs, and symbolic elements that are representative of Chinese beliefs and spiritual practices.

Ba Thien Hau Temple is not only a place of worship but also a key cultural landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, where the blending of Vietnamese and Chinese traditions can be observed. The temple is especially lively during festivals such as the Lunar New Year and the Mid-Autumn Festival, when the community gathers to honor the goddess and seek her blessings. For visitors, Ba Thien Hau Temple offers an immersive glimpse into the spiritual and cultural heritage of the Chinese-Vietnamese community, making it a must-see attraction for those interested in the history and traditions of Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown.

The Ba Thien Hau Temple appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)!

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