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

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TRACY SAILING TOWER

District 1

￥108,192

per person

Oct 26 - Oct 30

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

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

No reviews

D1Mension Residences Serviced Apartment

District 1

￥154,178

per person

Sep 24 - Sep 28

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip flight included

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

9.8/10 Exceptional! (161 reviews)

My stay at D1Mension Residences was extremely disappointing, and I would not recommend it to anyone. The property is not as advertised, and the service is practically non-existent. Misleading Photos: The biggest issue is that the apartment I received looked nothing like the polished, professional pictures online. The reality was a tired, underwhelming space that did not match the expectation they set with their advertising. No On-Site Staff & Poor Communication: There is no dedicated reception or staff for the apartment in the lobby. To check in or ask a question, I had to text a contact person who took hours to respond. This is unacceptable and very stressful. Poor Building Conditions: The common hallways have no air conditioning, making them uncomfortably hot and stuffy. Unsanitary Bathroom: Worst of all was the bathroom. It had a persistent, foul odor that made the entire apartment unpleasant. This was a major hygiene concern. Save your money and book elsewhere. This place does not deliver on its promises and the lack of service and cleanliness is a serious problem.

Reviewed on Sep 29, 2025

Lumiere Riverside Suite Vip

District 2

￥123,508

per person

Sep 24 - Sep 28

found 1 day ago

Roundtrip non-stop flight included

Osaka (OSA) 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