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.

Plan a trip to see Jade Emperor Pagoda

Price found within the past 48 hours. Click for updated prices.

ZENITY Skyline Residences Suite

District 1

￥108,730

per person

Oct 22 - Oct 25

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

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

9.4/10 Exceptional! (13 reviews)

Clean room, helpful staff, and good view from rooms.

Reviewed on Apr 16, 2026

Landmark 81 Skyscraper

Binh Thanh

￥116,444

per person

Sep 7 - Sep 11

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

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

9.8/10 Exceptional! (396 reviews)

We had a very disappointing experience. Before arrival we were asked to send passport details through WhatsApp, and several messages were later deleted, which raised concerns for us from the beginning. When we arrived, front desk staff refused assistance and directed us to communicate only with the owner/host. We also noticed signage suggesting short-term stays may not be permitted in the building. The apartment itself did not match the quality or presentation shown in the listing photos. The main issue was access and security. On our first night we returned around 10:30pm and discovered the access card provided would not unlock the foyer entrance to reach the elevators. We were locked outside with all of our passports, luggage and belongings still inside the apartment. Security staff refused to assist and we could not contact the host despite repeated attempts. We only regained entry because another resident allowed us into the building around 10:45pm. The following morning the apartment door lock malfunctioned and would not reliably lock or open. A technician attended but appeared unable to repair it properly. At one point he agreed to help us with the foyer access issue, but when the lift doors opened downstairs he ran out of the building and never returned. Due to the ongoing access problems, lack of support and security concerns, we booked alternative accommodation the following day and left the property early. This was the most stressful accommodation experience.

Reviewed on May 10, 2026

Lumiere Riverside Suite Vip

District 2

Save 100% on your flight

￥118,885

per person

Sep 7 - Sep 11

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

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

9.8/10 Exceptional! (332 reviews)

Everything was great. The host is attentive when needed but if you plan to use the pool or gym facilities you will need to be let in by the host. Not a problem aslong as you give 30 minutes ahead of time you need to use it.

Reviewed on Jul 24, 2026