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Spiritual tourism is not only a journey to explore the landscape, but also a journey to find serenity and deep connection with oneself. It is a place where visitors can temporarily put aside the hustle and bustle of life, to enter a sacred space and listen to spiritual values, lessons of compassion and wisdom. Let's visit Xa Loi Pagoda with Bdatrip, one of the ancient and sacred pagodas in the heart of Saigon:
Xa Loi Pagoda, one of the largest and most famous temples in Saigon, is listed as a city heritage site of Ho Chi Minh City. Covering an area of over 2,400 square meters, the pagoda attracts many visitors and Buddhist followers.
The temple is located at 89 Ba Huyen Thanh Quan Street, Ward 7, District 3, about 1.7 kilometers from Ben Thanh Market. Visitors from the city center can reach Xa Loi Pagoda by taking Le Thanh Ton Street, turning right onto Cach Mang Thang 8, then continuing on Dien Bien Phu Street, and finally driving about 100 meters straight along Ba Huyen Thanh Quan Street. You can choose to use personal transportation or bus route number 54.
Xa Loi Pagoda is open daily with the following hours:
During holidays or special days, the temple remains open continuously from 7:00 to 21:00 to welcome more visitors.
Xa Loi Pagoda, located in the heart of Ho Chi Minh City, is not only a significant religious site but also a landmark in Vietnam’s history. Construction of the pagoda began in 1956 and was completed in 1958. Its name, Xa Loi, meaning "Buddha Relic," reflects the sacred nature of the temple, as it was believed to house a relic of the Buddha, further reinforcing its spiritual significance.
The pagoda is closely tied to a pivotal moment in Vietnam's modern history, the Buddhist struggle for religious freedom during the 1960s. In 1963, it became a symbol of resistance when Monk Thich Quang Duc, in protest against the oppressive policies of the Ngo Dinh Diem regime towards Buddhism, self-immolated in front of the pagoda. His act of protest drew global attention to the religious and political repression that Buddhists faced under the South Vietnamese government. This tragic event marked a turning point in the struggle for religious equality and is forever etched in the history of Xa Loi Pagoda.
Following this, Xa Loi Pagoda became the headquarters of the Southern Vietnamese Buddhist Association, playing a crucial role in the administration and organization of Buddhist affairs in the region. The pagoda's historical significance was further enhanced as it became a gathering place for the Buddhist community during turbulent times.
In the year 2000, Xa Loi Pagoda underwent major renovations to preserve its unique architecture and cultural heritage. These renovations ensured that its historical and spiritual importance would continue to be honored by future generations, while maintaining its role as a sanctuary for those seeking peace and enlightenment.
Today, Xa Loi Pagoda stands not only as a sacred space for worship and reflection but also as a symbol of resilience, peace, and the enduring strength of the Vietnamese Buddhist community. The relics housed within, including those of the Buddha, continue to inspire countless visitors and devotees who come to pay their respects and reflect on the deep history that surrounds the pagoda. Coming to spiritual tourism in Ho Chi Minh City, you cannot miss Hoang Phap Pagoda - the largest pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City.
Xa Loi Pagoda is notable for its seven-story bell tower and spacious main hall, which represents the characteristic architecture of the pagoda. The main hall, covering over 400 square meters, is open to natural light through tall windows, providing an airy and bright space. Inside, the main hall displays 15 paintings that illustrate the life of the Buddha, from birth to Nirvana. Additionally, it houses a unique Bodhi leaf-shaped stupa containing the sacred Buddha relic, respectfully placed beside the statue of Buddha Shakyamuni.
Xa Loi Pagoda has two three-gate entrances: the main gate faces Ba Huyen Thanh Quan Street, and the secondary gate opens onto Su Thien Chieu Street. Upon entering, visitors will see the 32-meter-high, seven-story bell tower, known as the tallest bell tower in Vietnam. The tower is designed with seven octagonal levels, each honoring a different Buddha. The highest level, called the Cổ Lầu, houses the great bronze bell weighing 2 tons, measuring 1.2 meters in diameter and 1.6 meters in height, creating a solemn and sacred atmosphere.
Xa Loi Pagoda still preserves many precious artifacts with historical value, including:
Coming to Saigon, not only Xa Loi Pagoda, you can also visit Phap Hoa Pagoda, a spiritual tourist destination in the heart of Saigon.
Xa Loi Pagoda serves as a cultural and educational center, attracting numerous Buddhists and local residents in Ho Chi Minh City to its annual activities. As in previous years, the temple's regular activities in 2024 include:
In addition to major festivals such as Buddha's Birthday, Vu Lan (Ancestor Day), the First Full Moon, and Lunar New Year, Xa Loi Pagoda hosts two important annual events.
The first is the commemoration ceremony for Mr. Mai Tho Truyen, the founder of the Southern Vietnamese Buddhist Association, held on the 15th of the 3rd lunar month. This event allows Buddhists to honor his contributions to the development of Buddhism in Vietnam.
The second major event is the Medicine Buddha Ceremony, held in the first lunar month. This ceremony prays for health and peace for the community, particularly for those suffering from illness or seeking mental and physical healing.
Additionally, Xa Loi Pagoda hosts weddings for Buddhist couples a special ceremony in the peaceful environment of the temple, blessed by monks and fellow Buddhists. This ceremony emphasizes spiritual values, encouraging couples to build family lives on the foundations of ethics and compassion.
When visiting the pagoda, guests are encouraged to light a single incense stick to pray and admire the surroundings, avoiding excessive incense burning to preserve the temple's peaceful atmosphere. Visitors should dress modestly, maintain a respectful attitude, speak softly, and walk calmly.
When exploring the temple grounds, avoid touching artifacts, do not litter, and be mindful when taking photos. During major festivals, Xa Loi Pagoda is typically crowded, so visitors should be cautious with personal belongings.
Besides Xa Loi Pagoda, Saigon has many other well-known spiritual sites, such as Vinh Nghiem Pagoda, Giac Lam Pagoda, the Xa Loi Buddha Platform in District 9, and Vietnam Quoc Tu Temple.
Xa Loi Pagoda stands as a leading spiritual destination in Saigon, attracting visitors with its unique architecture and sacred atmosphere. When visiting, you can immerse yourself in the temple's serene surroundings, participate in festivals, listen to Dharma talks, and delve into profound Buddhist teachings, offering a rich and meaningful experience.
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