This structure offers some of the most impressive woodcarvings, figurines and art in all of Vietnam.

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is most well-known for its floor-to-ceiling woodcarvings and its tortoise population, giving rise to its alternative name, the Tortoise Pagoda. It was built around the turn of the 20th century for Cantonese migrants. It is still a functioning temple today and a site for both Taoist and Buddhist worshippers.

The entrance to the pagoda is usually very busy, with monks and worshippers wandering all around the courtyard. Step inside to be greeted by an intricate carving of the Jade Emperor, the Taoist ruler of Heaven. Above him, you’ll find the roof is designed with just as much attention to detail. The temple is split into a number of rooms, which you can view in any order. You might also like to head to the roof terrace that overlooks the surrounding area and the pagoda itself.

The Hall of Ten Hells is one of the most popular areas within the temple. Here, massive woodcarvings depict the suffering that awaits those in hell. Other halls in the temple are devoted to the goddesses of fertility and health.

Like many of Ho Chi Minh’s temples, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is always buzzing with activity. Tourists and worshippers make the temple crowded most days of the week, so come early in the morning to beat the tourists and mix with the locals. Outside the temple, you can choose to buy a small tortoise to release into the pond as a symbol of hope.

The Jade Emperor Pagoda is open daily and is located in District 1 of Ho Chi Minh City. It is isolated from other attractions in the city however, it’s easily accessible by taxi and some buses. The imagery may be frightening for some young children, and the level of incense may be overwhelming for others.

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Metropole Thu Thiem Skyline Apartment

District 2

per person

May 14 - May 17

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (HND) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

No reviews

Great location, spacious and very convenient. We are a family of 2 adults and 2 young kids. The location is very central so easy to walk to the main sites and also two malls in very close proximity. The hotel & residences is itself part of a plaza block which has restaurants, ATMs, starbucks, bar, convenience store making it very convenient. The staff were very courteous and speak good english too. Room was very clean and spacious, included washing machine and ironing board. Overall, highly recommended,

Reviewed on Mar 3, 2025

Lumiere Riverside Suite Vip

District 2

per person

Apr 3 - Apr 6

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (HND) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

10/10 Exceptional! (6 reviews)

My husband and I, along with our family, had a wonderful vacation. The apartment was spacious, comfortable, and fully equipped with all the necessary amenities, from the kitchen to the washing machine. One of the highlights was the pool with a stunning view of the Saigon River. Watching the sunset from there was simply amazing. Our kids and grandkids absolutely loved the space. The location is also a big plus—very close to the city center, Ben Thanh Market, and the Fine Arts Museum. The staff here were attentive, especially the owner and manager, who were incredibly kind and always quick to help. If you're looking for a great place for your family, this is the perfect choice.

Reviewed on Mar 3, 2025

Lumiere Riverside Residences Luxury

District 2

per person

Apr 3 - Apr 6

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Tokyo (HND) to Ho Chi Minh City (SGN)

10/10 Exceptional! (5 reviews)

Excellent place with great swimming pool. Check-in was easy and quick. The staff is quick in response and they accommodated all my requests. Good WiFi which helped me do some work. I will stay again at this place.

Reviewed on Mar 3, 2025

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