Jade Emperor Pagoda | one of the oldest pagodas in Ho Chi Minh City

This is an ancient pagoda with a long history in the city, often frequented by young people who come here to pray for love and relationships

Jade Emperor Pagoda is a famous spiritual attraction in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. It is a popular destination for those who wish to pray for love or children. So, what special features does this pagoda hold? Let’s explore with DanangPrivateCar.com.

Address of Jade Emperor Pagoda and the Best Time to Visit During the Year

As a sacred ancient pagoda in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Jade Emperor Pagoda attracts a large number of visitors, including both locals and international tourists.

Also known by its formal name, Phuoc Hai Tu, Jade Emperor Pagoda is famous for its spiritual significance, especially for those who wish to pray for love or for couples seeking to have children.

Jade Emperor Pagoda is renowned for its spiritual significance, especially for those seeking blessings for love and relationships
Jade Emperor Pagoda is renowned for its spiritual significance, especially for those seeking blessings for love and relationships

The pagoda gained additional fame when former U.S. President Obama visited on May 24, 2016. Its historical significance and Chinese architectural style have made it renowned. In 1994, the pagoda was recognized as a National Architectural and Artistic Heritage, making it a prominent attraction on the tourist map of Saigon.

According to many visitors’ shared experiences with DanangPrivateCar.com, the ideal time to visit the pagoda is from the beginning of the year to mid-January, or during the Jade Emperor’s festival, which falls on the 9th day of the lunar calendar. The atmosphere at Jade Emperor Pagoda during these times is always bustling with people. However, if you prefer a quieter visit, you can plan to go at another time, as the pagoda welcomes many visitors throughout the year.

How to get to Jade Emperor Pagoda

Jade Emperor Pagoda is located in the central area of Ho Chi Minh City, so you can reach it using various transportation options, including buses, cars, or motorcycles. However, note that Mai Thi Luu Street is relatively narrow, so it’s advisable to use a motorcycle or taxi.

Currently, buses 18, 93, and 150 stop at stations near Jade Emperor Pagoda, such as Tran Hung Dao, Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Dinh Tien Hoang, City Television Station, and Mac Ti Nho Church. From these stations, you can take a motorbike taxi or regular taxi to the pagoda.

If you’re traveling by motorcycle, you can follow this route: Truong Dinh – Nguyen Thi Minh Khai – Phung Khac Khoan – Dien Bien Phu – Mai Thi Luu.

For a more private, safe, and comfortable trip with friends and family, DanangPrivateCar.com offers private car services in Ho Chi Minh City. Their English-speaking drivers and modern, well-maintained vehicles ensure a comfortable journey to Jade Emperor Pagoda.

History of Jade Emperor Pagoda

Jade Emperor Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City was built in the early 20th century by a Chinese man named Liu Ming, also known as Liu Dao Yuan. Initially, it served as a shrine to the Jade Emperor and was also used by Liu Ming as a secret meeting place to plan the overthrow of the Qing Dynasty.

This is an ancient pagoda with a long history in the city, often frequented by young people who come here to pray for love and relationships
This is an ancient pagoda with a long history in the city, often frequented by young people who come here to pray for love and relationships

In 1982, the pagoda was taken over by Venerable Thich Vinh Khuong and officially became part of the Vietnam Buddhist Church. In 1984, the pagoda’s name was changed to Phuoc Hai Tu.

Over time, Jade Emperor Pagoda on Mai Thi Luu Street has become a famous tourist destination near the Saigon River. The pagoda is well-known among locals and tourists for its spiritual significance, where people come to pray for children, love, and peace.

Who is Worshipped at Jade Emperor Pagoda?

Today, Jade Emperor Pagoda is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, Huyen Thien Bac De (the Northern Immortal Emperor), and various celestial generals. Additionally, the pagoda venerates Kim Hoa Thanh Mau (the Holy Mother Kim Hoa) and the 12 midwives who oversee childbirth for humans. The pagoda also houses deities from traditional Chinese beliefs.

Jade Emperor Pagoda is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, Huyen Thien Bac De (the Northern Immortal Emperor), along with various celestial generals
Jade Emperor Pagoda is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, Huyen Thien Bac De (the Northern Immortal Emperor), along with various celestial generals

Moreover, the pagoda is renowned for its statue of Mr. To and Mrs. Nguyet, which is particularly favored by those seeking blessings for love and harmonious family life.

Tips for Praying at Jade Emperor Pagoda

How to Pray for Love at Jade Emperor Pagoda

Jade Emperor Pagoda is renowned as a place to pray for love and family harmony. To pray for love, you can light incense, recite the names of yourself and your beloved, and then touch the statue of Mr. To and Mrs. Nguyet at the pagoda to seek fulfillment of your wish. It is believed that at this moment, the Holy Mother will grant your wish, allowing Mr. To and Mrs. Nguyet to weave a successful romantic connection for you and your partner.

Jade Emperor Pagoda is famous for being a place to pray for love and relationships
Jade Emperor Pagoda is famous for being a place to pray for love and relationships

How to Pray for Children at Jade Emperor Pagoda

As the pagoda is dedicated to Kim Hoa Thanh Mau (the Holy Mother Kim Hoa) and the 12 midwives who oversee childbirth, it is a popular place for couples seeking to conceive.

You will pray in front of Kim Hoa Thanh Mau and the 12 midwives if you wish to pray for children at Jade Emperor Pagoda
You will pray in front of Kim Hoa Thanh Mau and the 12 midwives if you wish to pray for children at Jade Emperor Pagoda

The process for praying for children at Jade Emperor Pagoda is straightforward and well-guided:

  • Pray to Kim Hoa Thanh Mau and the 12 midwives.
  • If you wish for a son: Hang a red thread on the statue to the right. If you wish for a daughter: Hang it on the statue to the left.
  • Rub your own belly three times.
  • Rub the belly of the child statue at the base of the midwife statue three times.
  • Rub your own belly three more times to complete the ritual

Praying for Health, Peace, and Prosperity at Jade Emperor Pagoda

Jade Emperor Pagoda is not only a place for praying for love or children but also a popular destination for those seeking health, peace, and prosperity in their lives.

  • For Peace: You can pray at the hall dedicated to the Medicine Buddha (Phat Duoc Su).
  • For Prosperity: You should visit the hall dedicated to the God of Wealth (Than Tai) and follow the specific instructions for praying for financial abundance at Jade Emperor Pagoda.
  • For Health: You can pray in front of the statue of Hua Tuo (Hoa Da Tien Su), a famous ancient Chinese physician, to seek good health.
To pray for peace, you can visit the hall dedicated to the Medicine Buddha at Jade Emperor Pagoda
To pray for peace, you can visit the hall dedicated to the Medicine Buddha at Jade Emperor Pagoda

Nearby Attractions to Jade Emperor Pagoda

When visiting Ho Chi Minh City, besides Jade Emperor Pagoda, there are many other fascinating places to explore. To save time and make your trip more convenient, here are some nearby attractions in District 1 that you might want to check out:

Independence Palace

  • Address: 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ho Chi Minh City

A visit to the Independence Palace offers a blend of historical and cultural insights. Located just over 2 km from Jade Emperor Pagoda, it’s a straightforward and convenient route. The palace is a well-known landmark in Ho Chi Minh City, admired for its historical significance and robust architectural beauty.

Independence Palace

Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon

  • Address: 1 Cong Xa Paris, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Adjacent to the Independence Palace is the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon, a symbol of Ho Chi Minh City’s architectural charm. This historic church showcases a blend of Romanesque and Gothic styles, making it a perfect spot for picturesque photos and experiencing the city’s cultural heritage.

Notre-Dame Cathedral is the symbol of Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Thanh Market

  • Address: Le Loi Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Ben Thanh Market is the busiest market in Ho Chi Minh City, offering a deep dive into local lifestyle, cuisine, and culture. It’s a great place to experience the vibrancy of Saigon and pick up souvenirs to remember your trip.

The historical site is located at 135 Nam Ky Khoi Nghia Street, Ben Thanh Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Nguyen Hue Walking Street

  • Address: Nguyen Hue Street, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

Nguyen Hue Walking Street is a must-visit, especially at night, as it comes alive with bustling activity and beautiful scenery. It’s a fantastic spot to soak in the dynamic atmosphere of the city and engage in various recreational activities.

Nguyen Hue Pedestrian Street was built to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the liberation of the Southern region.

Landmark 81

  • Address: 720A Dien Bien Phu Street, Binh Thanh District, Ho Chi Minh City

In recent years, Landmark 81 has become a must-see landmark in Ho Chi Minh City. As the tallest building in Vietnam, it offers comprehensive services, including shopping, dining, and leisure activities. It’s an ideal place for relaxation and is a great choice for accommodations if you’re visiting Ho Chi Minh City for leisure, travel, or business.

Landmark 81 Park Boasts Many Beautiful Photo Spots

Conclusion

With its ancient and sacred beauty, Jade Emperor Pagoda is a serene and unique destination that you must visit during your trip to Ho Chi Minh City. Come to the city named after Uncle Ho, experience the festival at Jade Emperor Pagoda, and explore the nearby attractions to fully appreciate the charm that only Ho Chi Minh City can offer.

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