Discover one of the oldest Chinese pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City- Thien Hau Pagoda
Thien Hau Pagoda was built around 1760 by Chinese. It has all Chinese architecture characteristics with 4 houses linked to each other and have a small yard among the houses. Main shrine has Thien Hau statue in the center, Kim Thoa Nuong Nuong statue and Long Mau Nuong Nuong statue in both side. Thien Hau statue was made of wood which worshiped in Bien Hoa then transferred to Thien Hau Pagoda in 1836. Besides that, the pagoda has hundreds of antiques that appeared since 18th to early 20th century such as: wooden statues, stone statues, incense burners, reliefs, etc. Especially, it must be mentioned that there are 2 massive bells since the 60th year of Qianlong (1796) and 10th year of Dao Quang (1830), along with an incense burner since the 12th year of Quang Tu (1886). It is said that Thien Hau Pagoda construction materials were brought from China. All bricks, tiles, potteries, reliefs, etc were transferred from China to Ho Chi Minh City by ship. It make Thien Hau Pagoda is an important pagoda to Chinese in Ho Chi Minh City and Vietnam also.Like other pagoda, Thien Hau Pagoda has many visitor in Chinese festivals such as: Lunar New Year, Lantern Festival and every 15th of each month in lunar calendar. In 23th March (lunar calendar), the pagoda celebrate Thien Hau soul Day which is the biggest annual event here. On this day, Thien Hau statue is carried around the pagoda and others traditional activities.