Xa Loi Buddhist Temple is a working pagoda at 89 Bà Huyện Thanh Quan in Ho Chi Minh City’s District 3. Its seven-storey bell tower rises above a garden of bonsai trees and statues, while the main hall holds a large Buddha image. Built in 1956 to enshrine Buddhist relics, the temple also has a central place in the history of Buddhist activism in the 1960s. Visit the grounds, bell tower and library, and take time at the nearby monument to monk Thich Quang Duc.
A modern pagoda with traditional details
Xa Loi Pagoda was built in 1956 to enshrine Buddhist relics. Its name refers to those relics. The temple’s design brought a contemporary architectural style to a Vietnamese pagoda, while retaining local elements. The complex includes the main hall, a seven-storey bell tower, a library and a lecture hall.
Look around the garden for statues, including figures of Guanyin, and take in the contrast between the greenery and the tower above it. Inside the main hall, a large Buddha image is a focal point. Carved details and several altars add to the interior’s religious character.
The temple and Buddhist activism
Xa Loi became a centre of Buddhist activism during the political crisis of the early 1960s. In 1963, Buddhist protests opposed restrictions on religious practice under the government of Ngo Dinh Diem. Government forces raided the temple, and monks and nuns were arrested. The events made Xa Loi a significant site in the history of Buddhism in southern Vietnam.
Monk Thich Quang Duc, whose protest against the persecution of Buddhists drew international attention, is commemorated near the temple. His monument provides a place to pause and remember the people connected with this history. Approach the memorial and the temple with respect.
Exploring the grounds
The complex is more than the main hall: the bell tower, library and garden each give a different view of the temple’s religious life and design. Take a quiet walk through the grounds, then visit the main hall and the memorial nearby. The garden’s bonsai trees and statues make it a calm place to pause amid a day in the city.
Xa Loi is an active place of worship. Keep your voice low and dress with care, especially inside the hall. If you want to understand the temple’s rituals or history in more depth, a respectful conversation with a monk or local may provide context when someone is available.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Xa Loi Buddhist Temple?
It is at 89 Bà Huyện Thanh Quan in District 3, Ho Chi Minh City.
When is Xa Loi Buddhist Temple open?
The listed opening hours are 2 pm to 9 pm every day.
What is Xa Loi Buddhist Temple known for?
The pagoda is known for its seven-storey bell tower and its role in Buddhist activism during the 1960s.
What should I see at Xa Loi Buddhist Temple?
Visit the main hall, bell tower, library and garden, then see the nearby monument to Thich Quang Duc.
