Architecture sights in Ho Chi Minh City
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A
Giac Lam Pagoda
Believed to be the oldest pagoda in greater HCMC, Giac Lam Pagoda dates from 1744. It’s a fantastically atmospheric place full of gilded statues, colourful wall panels (depicting among other things the path to enlightenment as well as the tortures awaiting those condemned to hell) with one of the country’s most impressive stupas (32m tall). For the sick and elderly, the pagoda is a minor pilgrimage sight, as it contains a bronze bell that, when rung, is believed to answer the prayers posted by petitioners. Home to several monks, the Buddhist pagoda also incorporates aspects of Taoism and Confucianism. It is well worth the trip out here from the centre and is one of the ci…
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B
Jade Emperor Pagoda
Built in 1909 by the Cantonese (Quang Dong) Congregation, the Jade Emperor Pagoda is a real gem among Chinese temples. It is one of the most spectacularly colourful pagodas in HCMC, filled with statues of phantasmal divinities and grotesque heroes. The pungent smoke of burning joss sticks fills the air, obscuring the exquisite woodcarvings decorated with gilded Chinese characters. The roof is covered with elaborate tile work, while the statues, which represent characters from both the Buddhist and Taoist traditions, are made of reinforced papier-mâché. The pagoda is dedicated to the Emperor of Jade, the supreme Taoist god.
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C
People’s Committee Building
HCMC’s gingerbread People’s Committee Building, one of the city’s most prominent landmarks, is the home of the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee. Built between 1901 and 1908, the Hôtel de Ville is situated at the north-western end of ÐL Nguyen Hue, facing a river. The former hotel is notable for its gardens, ornate facade and elegant interior lit with crystal chandeliers. It’s one of the most photographed buildings in Vietnam. At night, the exterior is usually covered with thousands of geckos feasting on insects.
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D
Phuoc n Hoi Quan Pagoda
Built in 1902 by the Fujian Congregation, Phuoc An Hoi Quan Pagoda is one of the most beautifully ornamented pagodas in HCMC. Of special interest are the many small porcelain figures, the elaborate brass ritual objects and the fine woodcarvings on the altars, walls, columns and hanging lanterns. From the exterior, look out for the ceramic scenes, each containing innumerable small figurines, which decorate the roof.
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Hall of the Ten Hells
On the left-hand side of the Jade Emperor's chamber in the Jade Emperor Pagoda is another room. It contains the famous Hall of the Ten Hells, carved wooden panels illustrating the varied torments awaiting evil people in each of the Ten Regions of Hell.
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