Chua Ba Thien Hau Place guide

Even though most tourists place their focus on the popular attractions of a foreign country, there are certain travelers who are looking for something even more. There are numerous ways one can understand and explore a city, and if they want to go with the crowd, then by all means, let them follow a guided group or tour. However, for a more intimate and personally paced journey, travelers can stray away from the most talked about packages, and head towards the unknown with their own two feet. One way of getting to know the city’s culture is by visiting its spiritual structures, and if ever you find yourself in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, do stop by Chua Ba Thien Hau.

Known as The Pagoda of The Lady Thien Hau, it is not specifically a deity of Taoism or Buddhism. However, she has become an important presence throughout the traditional Chinese religion. Its exterior might seem a bit bold and brash, because of its gray stone walls, but on top of its roof, little porcelain figures that depict themes of Chinese religion and legends, give it its own charm. Inside, three statues of Thien Hau calmly greets her visitors, as the light radiates on her bronze face; and suspended right above her altar, dozens of coiled incense are lit – sending the wishes and prayers of the devotees to the lady herself. She is believed to protect and rescue stranded seafarers and fishermen, making her an important figure for fishermen across the country. 

Chua Ba Thien Hau is a beautiful and magical place where the locals meditate and worship. Trip Guru would like to encourage potential travelers to respect the area and, as much as possible, keep it peaceful and calm. Do your best not to raise your voices inside the premises, and wear the appropriate attire fit for such sacred buildings; meaning, no sleeveless tops and bottoms that reveal the knees.

The best time to visit Chua Ba Thien Hau is during the lady’s festival, which is during the 23rd day of the 3rd month of the Lunar year. To get to this attraction, one can take a bus from Truong Chinh, which is a five minute walk from the city of Ho Chi Minh.