Anna KH

Tucked away in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, far from the noisy motorbikes and bustling street vendors, lies a peaceful and lesser-known spiritual haven: Ten Thousand Buddha Pagoda (Chùa Vạn Phật). This hidden sanctuary offers a remarkable and tranquil experience for visitors seeking a place of reflection, spiritual depth, and Buddhist art.

Though it’s not as famous as other religious landmarks in Vietnam, Chùa Vạn Phật (which translates to Ten Thousand Buddha Temple) is an unforgettable destination with thousands of Buddha statues, intricate carvings, and a serene atmosphere that leaves visitors in awe. If you’re a lover of culture, religion, or photography, this place is a must-see during your stay in Saigon.

📍 Where is Ten Thousand Buddha Pagoda Located?

Address: 31D Phan Đăng Lưu, Phường 3, Bình Thạnh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Located in Bình Thạnh District, the pagoda is just a short drive from District 1 and is accessible via taxi, motorbike, or Grab.

Book Me Bus go now 😉👇

📌 Google Map

🪷 What Makes the Ten Thousand Buddha Pagoda Unique?

As its name suggests, this pagoda features over 10,000 Buddha statues, large and small, placed on the walls, altars, and niches throughout the temple complex. Every corner you turn reveals rows upon rows of golden Buddhas, each seated in meditation, creating a dazzling visual experience.

Here are the highlights that make this pagoda stand out:

🧘 1. The Main Hall

• The central hall houses an enormous seated Buddha surrounded by thousands of miniature Buddhas embedded in the walls.
• The ceiling is painted with colorful mandalas and floral motifs.
• There’s an aura of calm that immediately encourages quiet reflection.

🛕 2. Thousands of Buddha Statues

• From tiny 1-inch Buddhas to life-sized statues, each figure is carefully placed.
• Most are painted gold, symbolizing wisdom and enlightenment.
• Visitors often stop to admire the sheer scale and detail.

📿 3. Spiritual Offerings & Incense

• You can light incense sticks and offer prayers just like locals do.
• Flower and fruit offerings are placed by monks and lay visitors.
• It’s a genuine religious space, not just a tourist site.

🌳 4. Garden Courtyard

• A peaceful garden with bonsai trees, flowering plants, and a small pond.
• A great place for meditation, resting, or simply enjoying the silence.

🙏 Things to Do at the Pagoda

Whether you’re a Buddhist, a spiritual seeker, or just a curious traveler, here are activities to enjoy during your visit:

🧎 Meditate in silence under the gaze of thousands of Buddhas
📖 Read and learn about Mahayana Buddhism
📷 Take meaningful photos while respecting local traditions
💐 Offer incense or flowers for peace and blessings
🌼 Speak to a monk (if available) and learn more about the temple’s history

🕰️ Best Time to Visit

While the pagoda is open year-round, the best times to go are:

• 🕘 Morning (8 AM – 10 AM): Less crowded and peaceful
• 🌅 Late afternoon (4 PM – 5 PM): Golden light enhances photo quality
• 🏮 Lunar New Year (Tet Festival): More ceremonies, more offerings, and more visitors in traditional dress

🎟️ Entrance Fees and Dress Code

• 💵 Admission: Free (donations are appreciated)
• 👕 Dress Code: Modest clothing (no shorts or sleeveless tops)
• 👟 Footwear: Remove your shoes before entering the temple halls

💬 Local Tips for Your Visit

✅ Bring a small donation to support temple maintenance
✅ Be quiet and respectful, especially when monks are chanting
✅ Watch out for ceremonial times—these are beautiful moments to witness
✅ Ask permission before taking photos of people, especially monks
✅ If possible, go with a local guide or friend to understand deeper meanings

🛍️ Souvenirs & Nearby Attractions

Though the temple itself doesn’t have a big gift shop, you might find:

🧧 Buddhist charms or amulets
📿 Wooden prayer beads
📜 Calligraphy scrolls with Zen quotes

And while you’re in Bình Thạnh District, consider visiting:

• Ba Chieu Market 🛒 for local food and street shopping
• Le Van Duyet Tomb 🏛️, a historic site dedicated to a Vietnamese general
• Thanh Đa Peninsula 🌅 for riverside relaxation and cafes

✨ Final Reflections

The Ten Thousand Buddha Pagoda is more than just an architectural marvel—it’s a peaceful escape from the chaos of city life. For locals, it’s a place of prayer and inner peace. For travelers, it’s a chance to witness the spiritual and artistic richness of Vietnamese Buddhism up close.

It’s easy to miss among the many attractions in Ho Chi Minh City, but those who do make the journey are often rewarded with a sense of calm and wonder that few other places can offer.

📌 Quick Recap

Here’s a quick summary of why you should visit:

Feature	Description
🛕 Location	Bình Thạnh District, HCMC
🧘‍♂️ Highlights	Over 10,000 Buddha statues
🕰️ Best Time	Morning or late afternoon
💵 Admission	Free (donations welcome)
📸 Photo Opportunities	Stunning statues, art, gardens
🌸 Vibe	Quiet, spiritual, reflective

---