Chùa Ông Bổn (Nhi Phu Temple)

Temple in Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)

Ong Bon Pagoda
CC BY-SA 1.0 / Gary Todd

Ong Bon Temple also known as Nhi Phu Temple, is located in Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling Cholon district, is a historic Chinese temple dedicated to the deity Ong Bon, known as the guardian of happiness and prosperity. Established by the Chinese immigrant community, this temple has been a spiritual anchor for generations, symbolizing protection and good fortune. Its exterior is adorned with traditional red lanterns, intricate carvings, and colorful, ornate details that reflect the vibrant culture of the Chinese-Vietnamese community. The temple’s architecture, with its dragon motifs and elaborate rooftop sculptures, is striking, creating an inviting and visually rich atmosphere that attracts both worshippers and visitors.

Inside Ong Bon Temple, the air is thick with the fragrance of incense as worshippers burn offerings and pray for blessings. The altar is beautifully decorated with statues, calligraphy, and offerings dedicated to Ong Bon and other deities, embodying the community’s reverence for tradition and spirituality. Visitors can see intricately carved wooden panels, vivid murals, and decorative pieces that showcase both Chinese religious art and Vietnamese influences. The temple’s walls tell stories of the deities and figures important to Chinese folklore, offering a glimpse into the cultural beliefs that have been preserved and celebrated here for over a century.

Beyond its religious significance, Ong Bon Temple is also a cultural landmark that highlights the rich heritage of the Hoa (ethnic Chinese) community in Vietnam. The temple is often bustling with activities during festivals, particularly the Lunar New Year, when locals gather to pray for good fortune and prosperity in the year ahead. For travelers, Ong Bon Temple provides an opportunity to witness the blending of Vietnamese and Chinese traditions and appreciate the historical connections that have shaped the area. A visit to Ong Bon Temple is a journey through history, spirituality, and the vibrant culture of Ho Chi Minh City’s Chinatown.

The Chùa Ông Bổn (Nhi Phu Temple) appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Ho Chi Minh City (Saigon)!

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Visiting Chùa Ông Bổn (Nhi Phu Temple)

Address: 264 Hai Thuong Lan Ong Blvd., at Phung Hung St., Ho Chi Minh City, Ho Chi Minh City Vietnam

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