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Location & History
In contrast to other pagodas with spires standing tall, Giac Vien pagoda looks pretty much like an old house with such modest architecture that no one would ever think it is a Buddhist pagoda when seeing it for the first time. However, by no means should this temple be overlooked.
Photo holidify.com
What to see
Since this pagoda is located in a small alley (161/85/20 Lac Long Quan Street, District 11, Ho Chi Minh City), it is relatively hard to access the temple if one is not familiar with the complicated alley systems of Ho Chi Minh City. However, you can still easily go there by taxi, which may take around 20 to 30 minutes depending on the traffic conditions.
Photo: thanhnien.vn
Giac Vien Pagoda is 171 years old as of the year 2021 and is the oldest pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City. After some major restorations, the pagoda still preserves its original architecture with wooden columns as well as the yin – yang roofing pattern.
Since traditional Asian architecture places its emphasis on harmony, all the buildings and stupas here are placed harmoniously according to Buddhist cosmology. The main building of Giac Vien Pagoda comprises two connecting buildings with four columns for each. The front building serves as the grand hall, while the one in the back is used as a living room and a lecture hall. There are 153 statues in the pagoda, the majority of which can be traced back to the 19th century.
Other than those antiques, the swing, as well as the apricot tree presented to the Tien Giac – Hai Tinh monks by the Nguyen royal family, is also a treasure well-preserved by the pagoda.
Useful Information
- Location: 161/85/20, Lac Long Quan Street, District 11
- Best for: Family, couple, solo
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 8:00AM – 5:00PM
- Distance to city center: 7.2km (4.5 mi)
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