Temple · Cholon
Thien Hau Temple (Tue Thanh Assembly Hall)
Chùa Bà Thiên Hậu · Hội quán Tuệ Thành
Is it worth visiting? Yes, it is one of the most atmospheric temples in Cholon. The Cantonese community's assembly hall honours Thiên Hậu, goddess of the sea, and is known for its ceramic roof figures and giant hanging incense coils. Open daily about 6:30 am to 4:30 pm.
At a glance
- Hours
- About 6:30 am – 4:30 pm
- Festival
- Vía Bà, 22nd–24th day of the 3rd lunar month (very crowded)
- Time needed
- 30 minutes
Why go
- Founded by Chinese families from Guangzhou (Tuệ Thành), it was already recorded around 1820; inscriptions on its bell and incense burner date to 1830.
- The roof, walls and eaves are lined with ceramic figures telling Chinese stories, and the central courtyard light well lets sun fall through the incense smoke.
- People hang spiral incense coils that burn for days as prayers; the temple keeps hundreds of antique pieces.
How to get there
- Ride-hailing from District 1 takes about 20–30 minutes depending on traffic.
- City bus 1 runs from the centre to Cholon (free until 31 Dec 2026).
- Combine with Lantern Street, the herbal medicine street and Phung Hung Market nearby.
Local tips
- Dress modestly, speak softly and ask before photographing people praying.
- Do not touch altars or offerings; donations are welcome.
- Mornings are quieter and the light through the courtyard is best.
Show this to your driver
Chùa Bà Thiên Hậu · Hội quán Tuệ Thành
710 Nguyễn Trãi, phường Chợ Lớn (Quận 5 cũ)
Eat nearby
Phung Hung Market
Chợ Phùng HưngCholon (District 5)Morning market in the heart of Cholon. Try sticky rice, steamed buns, Hong Kong-style rice rolls, chive cakes and old-school sock-filtered coffee. Busiest 6–9am.
Lantern Street (Luong Nhu Hoc)
Phố lồng đèn Lương Nhữ HọcCholon (District 5)Saigon's lantern street. It glows with thousands of lanterns in the weeks before the Mid-Autumn Festival.
Herbal Medicine Street
Phố thuốc bắc Hải Thượng Lãn ÔngCholon (District 5)Hai Thuong Lan Ong street, lined with traditional Chinese herbal medicine shops. Great for photos and smells.
Ha Ky Sweet Soups
Chè Hà KýCholon (District 5)Chinese dessert shop with almost 40 sweet soups, running for over 30 years. Open 10am–10pm.
See next
Last checked: 24 October 2026. Sources: Mia.vn guide, February 2026. Hours and access can change, so check on the day.