Thien Hau Temple (Cholon): Ho Chi Minh City’s Ancient Sea Goddess Shrine | Vietnam Purple Travel Guide

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One of the most atmospheric and historically significant religious sites in Ho Chi Minh City, Thien Hau Temple, also known as the Tue Thanh Assembly Hall, is a highlight in Saigon’s Chinatown (Chợ Lớn). This 18th-century temple is a masterpiece of Chinese architecture in Vietnam, and a living center of community worship, cultural heritage, and spiritual devotion.
Dedicated to Thiên Hậu Thánh Mẫu, the revered Chinese sea goddess believed to protect sailors and seafarers, Thien Hau Temple continues to draw visitors with its incense-filled courtyards, intricate carvings, and rich blend of Chinese and Vietnamese spiritual traditions.

A Temple with Deep Historical Roots

The Tue Thanh Assembly Hall was built in 1760 by the Cantonese (Guangdong) community who had migrated to Vietnam and settled in the Chợ Lớn area. Its purpose was twofold: to serve as a place of worship for Mazu (Thiên Hậu), and to function as a social and civic meeting space for Chinese immigrants from Tue Thanh (another name for Guangzhou).
Over the centuries, the temple has undergone several restorations, especially during the 19th century under the Nguyen Dynasty, but it has retained much of its original architectural essence, making it one of the oldest and most culturally significant temples in Ho Chi Minh City.

Architectural Splendor

Thien Hau Temple is a striking example of Chinese temple architecture, with its narrow yet deep layout, ornate ceramic roof figurines, and interior altars laden with offerings. Every element of the design tells a story—from seafaring myths to family ancestry.

Notable Architectural Features:

• Front façade and triple-arched entrance: Adorned with calligraphy and guardian statues

• Ceramic dioramas on the roof ridge: Depict scenes from Chinese legends and daily life in 19th-century Canton

• Main courtyard: Open-air, with a large incense burner where coils of incense hang from the ceiling, creating a mystical ambiance

• Sanctuary of Thien Hau: The central altar houses a richly adorned statue of the goddess, often surrounded by paper offerings and golden artifacts

• Wooden beams and walls: Carved with auspicious motifs such as dragons, phoenixes, and lotus flowers

The blend of feng shui principles, Taoist symbolism, and folk artistry gives the temple a powerful visual and spiritual impact.

Who Is Thien Hau?

Known in Chinese as Mazu, Thiên Hậu is a popular Taoist sea goddess who originated in Fujian Province, China, and is worshiped throughout coastal regions of East and Southeast Asia. She is believed to have supernatural powers that help ships avoid shipwrecks and storms.
For Vietnam’s Chinese diaspora, especially merchants and fishermen, worshiping Thien Hau is a way of giving thanks for safe passage and continued protection. During festivals, especially Thien Hau’s birthday on the 23rd day of the 3rd lunar month, the temple becomes the site of lively processions, lion dances, and traditional performances.

Cultural Importance Today

Although located in the busy urban setting of District 5, Thien Hau Temple remains a spiritual refuge for worshippers and a cultural treasure for visitors. The temple is especially vibrant during Tet (Lunar New Year) and other major Chinese-Vietnamese holidays.

Practical Visitor Information

• Opening Hours: aily from 6am – 5pm

• Admission: Free (donations welcome)

• Dress Code: Modest attire is recommended

• Photography: Permitted in most areas, but avoid disrupting prayers or rituals

Here are some photos that we took:

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But we realize that not everybody likes to walk by themselves in a foreign city. So, just in case that you rather go with ab guide: NO PROBLEM! Please see the GuruWalk and Viator tours below.

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Author: Rudy at Backpack and Snorkel

Bio: Owner of Backpack and Snorkel Travel Guides. We create in-depth guides to help you plan unforgettable vacations around the world.

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