Jade Emperor Pagoda

Jade Emperor Pagoda is a historic Taoist and Buddhist temple located at 73 Mai Thi Luu Street in Da Kao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City. Built in 1909 by Cantonese migrant Liu Daoyuan as Phuoc Hai Tu, it is dedicated to the Jade Emperor, the supreme deity in Taoism. Notable for its intricate woodcarvings, elaborate statues, incense-filled halls and turtle pond, it remains an active place of worship and a prominent cultural attraction in central Ho Chi Minh City.

Visitors can expect a compact, ornate temple complex with a brick exterior, tiled roof with detailed ceramic figures, and dimly lit interior halls filled with hanging incense coils and smoke. Inside are colorful statues of the Jade Emperor, guardians, and Buddhist figures, woodcarvings, and the Hall of Ten Hells depicting afterlife scenes. A small courtyard and pond with turtles is located in front of the main hall. The site is active with worshippers praying and making offerings.

Built in 1909 by Liu Daoyuan (Lu Ming Fang), a Cantonese migrant, as Phuoc Hai Tu. Originally a Taoist temple honoring the Jade Emperor, it was later taken over by the Buddhist community. Former U.S. President Barack Obama visited the pagoda in May 2016. The architecture reflects Cantonese style with preserved woodcarvings and statues from the early 20th century.

An active Taoist and Buddhist place of worship dedicated to the Jade Emperor and other deities including the Goddess of Fertility (Kim Hoa Thanh Mau) and the City God. Local visitors pray for luck, happiness, career success and fertility. The turtle pond reflects Buddhist respect for life, and the temple is known for its incense rituals and traditional festivals.