Phap Hoa Pagoda: A Spiritual Stop Amid the Bustling Saigon

Phap Hoa Pagoda is one of the spiritual and cultural destinations that anyone visiting Saigon should not miss. Here, visitors can relax in the peaceful Buddhist ambiance, experiencing the rare tranquility and calm in the midst of the city’s vibrant pace with BDATrip.

What to Know About Phap Hoa Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City

Where is Phap Hoa Pagoda in Saigon?

Located at 870 Truong Sa Street, Ward 14, District 3, Ho Chi Minh City, Phap Hoa Pagoda is easily accessible from the city center, near Le Van Sy Bridge. Its central location makes it ideal for those looking for a serene retreat within the lively urban landscape. Coming from Tran Quoc Toan Street, head straight onto Le Van Sy Bridge, and you’ll see the pagoda on the right. This convenient position is perfect for travelers seeking a spiritual stop on their Saigon journey. 

Opening Hours:
Visitors can visit the pagoda during two main periods daily:

• Morning: 6:00 AM to 11:30 AM
• Afternoon and Evening: 1:30 PM to 9:00 PM

The Historical Legacy of Phap Hoa Pagoda, District 3

Phap Hoa Pagoda, founded by Venerable Dao Ha Thanh in 1928, has become a significant spiritual symbol in Saigon. Initially built with simple materials like wood and bamboo, it reflected the modest and spiritual lifestyle of the people at that time. After many historical events, the pagoda has undergone numerous renovations to preserve its cultural value and meet the spiritual needs of worshippers.

Major renovations occurred in 193 and 1965, solidifying the pagoda’s structure and appearance. The most recent renovations in 1990 and 1993 preserved its ancient beauty while giving it a more modern look. In 2015, Phap Hoa Pagoda was officially recognized as a historical site by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Culture, Sports, and Tourism. This acknowledgment added to the pagoda’s cultural and spiritual value, making it an appealing tourist attraction, drawing visitors eager to learn about Buddhist culture and history.

How to Reach Phap Hoa Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City

The pagoda is approximately 3 km from the city center, making it convenient for tourists visiting Saigon. However, visitors should note that there are other Phap Hoa Pagodas in districts like Phu Nhuan and Go Vap. 

Researching the address beforehand helps avoid confusion.

• By Personal Vehicle: Starting from Ben Thanh Market, follow Truong Dinh Street, turn right on Ky Dong Street, left on Tran Quoc Toan Street, and then right onto Truong Sa Street. Drive about 500 meters to find Phap Hoa Pagoda on the right.
• By Public Transport: Bus route number 28 stops near Phap Hoa Pagoda, providing easy access without worry about navigation.

The Grand, Majestic Architecture of Phap Hoa Pagoda on Le Van Sy

With nearly 100 years of history, Phap Hoa Pagoda attracts visitors with its cultural and religious depth and its unique architecture. Seen from afar, it stands majestically along the peaceful Nhieu Loc Canal, creating a scene both ancient and poetic.

• The Pagoda Entrance Architecture: Designed in harmony with nature, the entrance is lined with greenery and vibrant orchid baskets. The calm atmosphere, with birds singing and gentle breezes along the canal, brings a sense of peace as visitors prepare to enter the main hall.

• The Main Hall Architecture: The main hall is an intricate architectural piece, divided into several sections, each dedicated to different Buddhas, demonstrating respect for each deity in Buddhism. The statues are made from fragrant jackfruit wood, enhancing the temple’s sacred and refreshing ambiance. Beside the main hall, two three-story buildings house important records and offer accommodations for monks, nuns, and worshippers.

The Buddha's Birthday Festival at Phap Hoa Pagoda

As one of the most famous spiritual attractions in Saigon, Phap Hoa Pagoda hosts several major Buddhist festivals, drawing both local and international visitors. Among them, Buddha's Birthday is the most important, celebrated with reverence, attracting thousands of monks, Buddhists, and visitors.

• Buddha's Birthday  The Largest Event at Phap Hoa Pagoda: Held annually in April of the lunar calendar, this festival commemorates and honors the Buddha with solemn and traditional rituals. The pagoda is decorated with thousands of colorful lanterns from the main hall, extending across the entire grounds and along the Nhieu Loc Canal. At night, the pagoda glows with lantern light, creating a warm, festive, and magical scene.
• Activities During the Festival: On the main day, Phap Hoa Pagoda welcomes a large number of visitors for blessing ceremonies, chanting, and the lantern floating ritual on Nhieu Loc Canal, symbolizing prayers for peace, happiness, and enlightenment. Attendees can experience the sacred festival atmosphere, interact with the Buddhist community, and enjoy the calm, spiritual space.

After the Buddha's Birthday celebrations, visitors can explore nearby cultural and religious sites like Giac Lam Pagoda, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Xa Loi Pagoda, and the Vietnam History Museum, forming a meaningful cultural journey in the heart of the city.

Important Guidelines for Visiting and Paying Respects at Phap Hoa Pagoda

To make your visit to Phap Hoa Pagoda meaningful and fulfilling, please keep in mind the following guidelines:

Visiting Hours: Please visit the pagoda during the designated hours to avoid disrupting the monks’ and practitioners’ routines. For a more profound experience, consider visiting during chanting sessions, Buddhist ceremonies, or on significant days such as the first and fifteenth day of the lunar month to immerse yourself in the solemn and sacred atmosphere.

Dress Code: Wear modest and respectful attire suitable for a spiritual space, reflecting reverence and aligning with the tranquil atmosphere of the pagoda.

Photography/Filming: If you wish to capture photos or videos, kindly ask for permission from the pagoda management to ensure that the sacred space is respected and not disturbed.

Maintaining Cleanliness: Help keep the pagoda clean and serene by disposing of waste in designated areas, contributing to the peaceful and orderly environment.

Observing Rules: Avoid breaking branches, picking flowers, or taking any items within the pagoda grounds without permission. Additionally, refrain from placing food or offerings on altars or near Buddha statues, avoid touching the statues, and do not turn your back or point fingers at them as a sign of respect.

Phap Hoa Pagoda is a sacred and tranquil space, offering a serene retreat from the bustling city. May your visit leave you with a sense of peace, spiritual connection, and cherished memories to carry with you.

A Few Tourist Destinations in Ho Chi Minh City:

• Turtle Lake
• Can Gio Mangrove Forest 
• Khanh An Monastery