Top 5 Famous Temples to Visit for Tet Prayers in Ho Chi Minh City

Every Tet (Lunar New Year), Vietnamese people uphold the tradition of visiting temples to pray for peace, seek blessings (lộc), and entrust wishes for a prosperous new year. Amid the bustling urban life of Ho Chi Minh City, these temples stand as serene oases, drawing millions of pilgrims. If you’re planning a Tet visit for the Year of the Snake (Ất Tỵ 2026), here are 5 of the most renowned and spiritually significant temples in Saigon.

The Meaning of Visiting Temples at the Start of the Year in Saigon

Visiting temples at the beginning of the year is a cherished spiritual and cultural tradition deeply rooted in Saigon residents. In the tranquil temple grounds, the resonant sound of bells and the gentle fragrance of incense create a profound sense of peace, allowing people to set aside the worries of the old year. It’s a time for self-reflection, soul-cleansing, and recharging with positive energy to welcome fresh beginnings.

More importantly, this custom strengthens family bonds and community values. Grandparents and parents often bring children along, sharing stories and moral lessons that nurture gratitude and kindness in the younger generation. Thus, Tet temple visits are more than rituals—they’re meaningful cultural and spiritual journeys.

Review of 5 Must-Visit Temples for Tet 2026 in Ho Chi Minh City

Ho Chi Minh City boasts many temples, each with its unique beauty, history, and spiritual atmosphere. Here are some of the most famous ones recommended for your Tet pilgrimage in 2026.

1. Jade Emperor Pagoda (Ngọc Hoàng Temple / Phước Hải Tự) – Sacred Gem in the Heart of Saigon

Jade Emperor Pagoda, also known as Phước Hải Tự, is one of the oldest and most responsive temples in HCMC. Built in the early 20th century, it features distinctive Chinese architecture with glazed tile roofs and intricate wooden carvings. Stepping through the gate, the solemn incense smoke and quiet ambiance help wash away the anxieties of the past year.

This temple is especially popular for prayers related to fertility, romance, and general well-being. The Kim Thoa Thánh Mẫu shrine draws those seeking children, while other altars attract visitors praying for love, career success, or health. During Tet, it becomes crowded yet maintains a reverent atmosphere, making the visit deeply meaningful.

The pagoda gained international fame after a visit by former U.S. President Barack Obama, solidifying its special place in Saigon’s spiritual life. With its historical, architectural, and devotional value, it’s an unmissable spot for Tet blessings.

Contact Information:

• Address: 73 Mai Thị Lựu, Đa Kao Ward, District 1, HCMC
• Tet Opening Hours: 5:00 – 19:00 (Open all night on New Year’s Eve)
• Phone: 028 3820 3102

2. Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda – Icon of Buddhism in Saigon

Vĩnh Nghiêm Pagoda is one of the largest and most modern temples in HCMC. It impresses with a harmonious blend of traditional Northern Vietnamese curved roofs and durable modern construction. Highlights include the 14m-high Quan Âm Tower and the once-tallest seven-story stone pagoda in Vietnam, creating an imposing yet elegant architectural landmark.

The spacious, airy grounds are perfect for family visits during Tet. The temple hosts prayer sessions, incense offerings, vow writings, and Dharma talks, drawing thousands of Buddhists and visitors. On New Year’s Eve, the courtyard glows with apricot and chrysanthemum flowers, blending solemnity with festive cheer.

Exploring the majestic Buddha statues and peaceful gardens at Vĩnh Nghiêm helps start the new year with calm and clarity. Beyond spirituality, it distributes Buddhist texts for deeper study of the teachings.

Contact Information:

• Address: 339 Nam Kỳ Khởi Nghĩa, Xuân Hòa Ward, HCMC (District 3 area)
• Opening Hours: Typically 6:00 – 19:00 (Open continuously from New Year’s Eve through the third day of Tet)
• Phone: 028 3848 3153
• Facebook: Chùa Vĩnh Nghiêm TP.HCM

3. Bửu Long Pagoda – Mini “Land of Golden Temples”

Bửu Long Pagoda stands out for its unique architecture in HCMC. Unlike traditional Vietnamese styles, it draws heavily from Thai influences with a vibrant golden main hall and pointed roofs. The centerpiece is the towering Gotama Cetiya stupa, surrounded by a serene lake and shady trees, creating a poetic, tranquil setting.

During Tet, it’s ideal for those seeking both worship and peaceful respite. Many young people choose it for photos, as it resembles a miniature “Golden Temple” paradise right in Saigon.

Despite crowds, it retains its solemnity. Visitors should stay quiet and respectful. Note the strict midday break (no visitors 11:00 – 14:00) for monks’ rest—plan for early morning or after 14:00.

Contact Information:

• Address: 81 Nguyễn Xiển, Long Bình Ward, District 9 (Thu Duc City), HCMC
• Opening Hours: 8:00 – 18:00 (Closed to visitors 11:00 – 14:00 for monks’ rest)

4. Bà Thiên Hậu Temple – Signature Chợ Lớn Cultural Landmark

Located in Chợ Lớn, Bà Thiên Hậu Temple (Tuệ Thành Assembly Hall) is one of Saigon’s oldest, with over 260 years of history. Dedicated to Thiên Hậu Thánh Mẫu (Mazu), the sea goddess protector of seafarers, it’s central to the Chinese-Vietnamese community’s beliefs.

The temple showcases classic Chinese architecture with exquisite carvings, weathered tiled roofs, and a solemn ambiance reflecting Chợ Lớn’s heritage. The most striking feature is hundreds of large incense coils hanging from the ceiling. During Tet, it opens later to accommodate crowds praying, seeking blessings, and admiring ancient reliefs.

A popular ritual involves buying large incense coils, writing prayers on red paper, and hanging them—believed to carry wishes to the heavens as they burn continuously.

Contact Information:

• Address: 710 Nguyễn Trãi, Ward 11, District 5, HCMC
• Opening Hours: 06:00 – 11:30 & 13:00 – 16:30 daily (Extended on Tet days 1-2)

5. Việt Nam Quốc Tự – Center of Vietnamese Buddhist Culture

Situated on the prominent 3/2 Road, Việt Nam Quốc Tự symbolizes the unity of Vietnamese Buddhism. Built to commemorate 2000 years of Buddhism, it blends modern design with traditional East Asian elements. Key features include a 13-story bell tower and a 63m-high seven-story tower housing Buddha relics.

The architecture harmoniously merges contemporary and traditional styles, offering a grand yet peaceful space amid bustling District 10. With large grounds and parking, it’s convenient for Tet events.

During Tet, it draws crowds for peace prayers, sutra chanting, and solemn New Year’s Eve ceremonies. The spring flower exhibition and calligraphy street in front add festive vibrancy—perfect for Tet photos in áo dài while praying.

Contact Information:

• Address: 244 Đường 3/2, Ward 12, District 10, HCMC
• Tet Opening Hours: 6:00 – 21:00 (Open all night on New Year’s Eve)

Tips for Tet Temple Visits

To make your Tet pilgrimage fulfilling, keep these notes in mind:

• Attire: Wear traditional áo dài, Buddhist attire, or modest long pants and covered sleeves. Avoid short skirts or tight clothing.
• Timing: Temples are busiest from 8:00 – 11:00 on days 1-3 of Tet. Consider New Year’s Eve or early mornings (from 5:00) to avoid traffic.
• Offerings: Bring simple items like fresh flowers or fruit—no meat offerings. Limit incense to prevent overcrowding and fire risks.
• Behavior: Stay respectful, walk and speak softly, avoid littering, and safeguard belongings.

We hope this guide provides valuable insights for your 2026 Tet pilgrimage. Wishing you and your family a peaceful, fortunate New Year filled with blessings at these sacred temples in Saigon!