Located in District 9, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, Buu Long Pagoda is considered the most unique Thai-style architectural temple in Ho Chi Minh City. Let’s explore what makes this temple so special and why it attracts visitors from all over to come and explore.
You don’t need to travel all the way to Thailand to admire the architectural masterpiece of the Land of the Golden Temples. Buu Long Pagoda, with its unique Thai-style architecture, shines brightly in the midst of the splendid Saigon, becoming a fascinating spiritual tourist destination, attracting people from all corners to come and visit and worship.
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Where is Buu Long Pagoda?
Established in 1942, Buu Long Pagoda, also known as Buu Long Monastery, is the most prominent Thai-style architectural temple in Saigon. It is located approximately 20 km from the city center and is a favorite destination for both city residents and those from nearby areas.
Buu Long Pagoda had the honor of being chosen by National Geographic magazine in the United States as one of the 10 most beautifully designed Buddhist structures in the world. Like a radiant flower amidst the picturesque scenery beside the gentle Dong Nai River, Buu Long Pagoda in District 9 has become a renowned spiritual tourism spot near and far.
Discovering the Unique Architecture of Buu Long Pagoda in District 9.
Buu Long Pagoda in District 9 was first built in 1942 and underwent renovations and repairs from 2007 to 2011. Despite the passage of time and various events, the temple still retains its original unique architecture. Currently, the temple consists of different areas: the courtyard, main hall, monks’ quarters, meditation hall, and stupas.
Locals often refer to this place as the “Thai Temple” due to its distinctive Thai-style architecture, reminiscent of the colors of the Land of the Golden Temples. The design concept of Buu Long Pagoda was inspired by the ancient Buddhist architecture originating from India. When you visit, you will be impressed by the distinctive Buddhist architecture, which harmoniously combines primitive Buddhist architecture with Vietnamese cultural colors.
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Attractions at Buu Long Pagoda in District 9, Ho Chi Minh City.
Buu Long Pagoda features a unique courtyard design.
Leave behind the hustle and bustle of Saigon and enter Buu Long Pagoda, where you will feel surrounded by lush green nature and a peaceful, tranquil atmosphere. The 11-hectare courtyard is covered with countless fresh green leaves.
Along the main path, you will find rows of straight trees that add a majestic and elegant atmosphere to the temple. In the center of the courtyard, there is a large emerald-green lake surrounded by intricately decorated walkways. Adding to the uniqueness of the spacious courtyard is the faint silhouette of a hill to the west of the serene Dong Nai River branch.
The famous Gotama Cetiya stupa inside Buu Long Pagoda.
When you visit Buu Long Pagoda, you will be immediately captivated by the splendid Gotama Cetiya stupa amidst the peaceful surroundings. The Gotama Cetiya is 56 meters tall and can accommodate up to 2000 people, making it the largest pagoda stupa in Vietnam.
The entire Gotama Cetiya stupa is covered in pure white, with a golden spire at the top. The pinnacle of the spire is adorned with wind chimes that resonate in the breeze. Looking from the outside, one cannot help but admire the intricate carvings combined with beautiful arched windows.
A Thai-style temple right in Saigon.
It’s no coincidence that locals call Buu Long Pagoda in District 9, Ho Chi Minh City, the “Thai Temple.” In an overall view, Buu Long Pagoda shares the common architectural traits of the temples in the Land of the Golden Temples. These temples are meticulously designed and constructed with golden spires and intricate carvings. Additionally, Buu Long Pagoda bears the imprint of Vietnamese culture, reflected in the carvings and dragon statues. This place has become a Thai-style temple and a favorite photography spot for many young tourists.
Buu Long Pagoda is a place of tranquility and prayer without the need for incense.
Nestled away from the city, surrounded by lush green hills, Buu Long Pagoda exudes peace and tranquility. Visitors to this place seem to shed all the worries, fatigue, and worldly concerns of daily life. This is why it has become a pilgrimage site, a place for Buddhist worship, and a favorite spot for meditation among Buddhist devotees.
Known as the “incense-free temple,” visitors to Buu Long Pagoda do not need to bring incense. They only need a sincere heart to worship the Buddha. This place also serves as a sightseeing spot, allowing visitors to admire the serene and poetic scenery both inside and outside the city.
Directions to Buu Long Pagoda in District 9.
You can reach Buu Long Pagoda in District 9 via the following routes:
- Option 1: Directions to Buu Long Pagoda from Thủ Đức intersection.
Turn right into Lê Văn Việt and drive about 4.5 km to the end of the road. When you reach Mỹ Thành intersection, turn right onto Nguyễn Văn Tăng. Continue for 2 km, then you’ll encounter another right turn onto Nguyễn Xiển, but keep going straight. When you see Nguyễn Văn Tăng High School, continue for about 1 km more, and you’ll find Buu Long Pagoda.
- Option 2: Visit the temple from the Thủ Thiêm Tunnel.
From the Thủ Thiêm Tunnel, head straight onto Mai Chí Thọ Boulevard. Then, turn right onto Nguyễn Thị Định, drive about 700m, and turn left onto Nguyễn Duy Trinh. Continue to the end of the road, and when you reach Nguyễn Xiển Street, turn right and cross Đồng Tròn Bridge. Continue for approximately 700m, and you will see Buu Long Pagoda in District 9 on your right.
- Option 3: Visit the temple from Suối Tiên.
From the Thủ Đức intersection, head straight towards Xa lộ Hà Nội to reach Suối Tiên. From there, drive about 2.5 km to a new intersection, then turn right and continue to the end of the road. Once you reach Nguyễn Xiển Street, turn right after crossing Đồng Tròn Bridge. After about 700m, you will see Buu Long Pagoda in District 9 on the right side of the road.
If you are looking for transportation to Buu Long Pagoda and other famous attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, DanangPrivateCar.com can assist you with that. With our private car service with drivers in Ho Chi Minh City, we can help you navigate the bustling city and reach your destinations quickly. Additionally, our professional drivers with years of experience in international passenger transportation will ensure you have a safe and comfortable journey.
Some important information to know when visiting Buu Long Pagoda in District 9.
Admission fees and opening hours at Buu Long Pagoda.
- Admission fee reference: Free of charge.
- Opening hours reference: 08:00 – 18:00 daily.
Note: The temple does not receive visitors from 11:00 AM to before 2:00 PM. If you arrive during this time, you can only explore the area outside the temple.
Where to eat near Buu Long Pagoda in District 9?
Vegetarian beef noodle soup.
Vegetarian beef noodle soup is a refreshing and wholesome dish that you should try when visiting Buu Long Pagoda. This dish has a delicious broth made from natural sweet vegetables, rich and flavorful tofu, and a spicy lemongrass kick that is very enticing.
Recommended eateries:
- Food stalls within the temple grounds for visitors.
- Quán Sen Vàng (Golden Lotus Restaurant): 8 Đình Phong Phú, P. Tăng Nhơn Phú B, District 9, Ho Chi Minh City.
- Vegetarian Beef Noodle Soup: 253 Tăng Nhơn Phú, Tăng Nhơn Phú B, District 9, Ho Chi Minh City.
Vegetarian crab noodle soup.
Considered a specialty for vegetarians, vegetarian crab noodle soup is a delightful dish with natural sweetness from vegetables, the savory flavor of vegetarian shrimp paste, and the fragrant chewiness of vegetarian crab noodles made from mushrooms and tofu.
Recommended eateries:
- Food stalls within the temple grounds for visitors.
- Vegetarian Crab Noodle Soup: 63 Tô Ngọc Vân Street, Linh Đông, Thủ Đức, Ho Chi Minh City.
- An Lạc Vegetarian Crab Noodle Soup: 4 Kha Vạn Cân Street, Hiệp Bình Chánh, Thủ Đức, Ho Chi Minh City.
Ice cream.
With the hot Saigon weather, a refreshing ice cream cone will be a lifesaver, making your visit more enjoyable and pleasant. You can purchase various flavored ice cream sticks at the food vendors within the temple grounds or at nearby eateries.
Notes when visiting Buu Long Pagoda in District 9, Ho Chi Minh City.
When visiting Buu Long Pagoda or any temple, it’s important to dress modestly. Wear long pants or long dresses and avoid wearing overly short clothing when lighting incense or participating in Buddhist ceremonies to avoid causing discomfort.
Remember to remove your shoes before entering the temple’s main hall. There are designated areas for shoe storage, so you can leave your footwear behind safely.
Limit taking photos and videos inside the temple. Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor during your visit to avoid disturbing those who are praying and participating in Buddhist ceremonies.
Some nearby attractions to visit near Buu Long Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City.
Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon.
- Address: 1 Công xã Paris, Bến Nghé Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
The Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica of Saigon is a source of pride for Saigon residents and the largest and most beautiful church in the Saigon diocese. With its delicate European-style architecture, harmoniously combining romantic Roman and unique Gothic styles, this place has become a captivating tourist destination for visitors from near and far.
Nguyen Hue Walking Street.
Nguyen Hue Street is located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City. Here, you will immerse yourself in the vibrant and youthful atmosphere of Saigon. Along both sides of the street are upscale shopping areas and elegant European-style buildings. This is the favorite hangout spot for young people in Saigon.
Nha Rong Harbor.
- Address: 1 Nguyễn Tất Thành, Ward 12, District 4, Ho Chi Minh City.
If you have the opportunity to visit Ho Chi Minh City, be sure to visit Nha Rong Harbor, where Uncle Ho departed in search of the path to save the nation. Also known as the Ho Chi Minh Museum, this architectural complex and museum on the banks of the Saigon River preserves many cultural and historical values for visitors to explore and learn.
Ben Thanh Market.
- Address: Lê Lợi Street, Bến Thành Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City.
Ben Thanh Market is an iconic symbol of Ho Chi Minh City. It is considered a historical witness to the development of Saigon. Here, tourists can take photos, explore, and shop for shoes, clothing, and unique Saigon souvenirs.
Buu Long Pagoda – a place of tranquility amidst the bustling city of Saigon. It’s where people leave behind the worries and calculations of daily life to immerse themselves in the peaceful environment that soothes the soul. If you visit Ho Chi Minh City, don’t miss the opportunity to explore and worship at this beautiful temple with its unique Thai-style architecture
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