Nestled away from the bustling heart of Ho Chi Minh City, Buu Long Pagoda offers a serene escape and an authentic taste of local culture. This extraordinary temple stands out among Vietnam’s diverse collection of pagodas, captivating visitors with an architectural style rarely seen in the region. Unlike the traditional Vietnamese designs that adorn most temples, Buu Long Pagoda’s architecture draws inspiration from Thai temples, featuring golden spires, intricate detailing, and a calming ambiance that feels both exotic and peaceful. Visiting Buu Long Pagoda reveals a different side of Vietnamese spiritual life, providing a distinctive cultural experience that leaves a lasting impression on anyone in search of beauty and tranquility away from the city’s fast-paced rhythm.
The History & Architecture of Buu Long Pagoda
Buu Long Pagoda, built in 1942, stands as a fascinating cultural landmark, blending Southeast Asian architectural influences from Thailand and India with traditional Vietnamese elements. Its architecture is particularly striking, adorned with intricate dragon and crane motifs that pay homage to the Nguyen dynasty. Though its design echoes the golden spires of Thai temples, Buu Long Pagoda’s Vietnamese identity remains clear, making it a standout in Vietnam’s spiritual landscape.
The main stupa, reaching an impressive height of 56 meters, is not only the tallest of its kind in Vietnam but also a symbolic beacon of peace and contemplation. Surrounding it are four smaller auxiliary towers, each crafted with intricate details that draw admiration from visitors who appreciate fine architectural beauty.
Buu Long Pagoda offers a serene escape from city life, with lush gardens and tranquil paths that invite quiet reflection. Strolling through its expansive grounds, one can marvel at the detailed statues, enjoy the peaceful garden settings, and even savor a delicious vegetarian meal at the pagoda’s on-site restaurant.
For those seeking a view, a climb to the top of the pagoda’s main tower rewards with breathtaking panoramas of the Dong Nai River and the countryside beyond District 9—a perspective that feels worlds away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Visiting Information for Buu Long Pagoda
Location: 81 Nguyen Xien, Long Binh, Thu Duc District, Ho Chi Minh City.
Opening Hours:
- The main pagoda is open daily from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.
- The stupa, offering the best views of District 9, is open from 8:00 am to 10:00 am and again from 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm.
Entrance Fees:
There is no entrance fee to visit Buu Long Pagoda. However, donations are appreciated to help support the temple’s maintenance and upkeep.
Getting to Buu Long Pagoda
Buu Long Pagoda, located in District 9, is a bit of a journey from Ho Chi Minh City’s bustling center, but the destination is well worth the effort. For travelers seeking tranquility away from the city’s fast pace, the trip to this serene pagoda provides an immersive escape into the more peaceful outskirts of Saigon.
To reach Buu Long Pagoda, there are several transportation options. Taking a taxi or using a ride-hailing app like Grab offers the most convenient and efficient route, with a drive time of approximately 45 minutes, depending on traffic. The 18-kilometer distance from the center usually costs around 200,000 to 300,000 Vietnamese Dong (VND) by taxi. It’s always best to confirm fares beforehand or check estimated costs via the app for clarity.
For those looking for a more budget-friendly option, bus routes also run to District 9, though this option may take up to two hours and requires some patience with the multiple stops along the way. However, the bus journey offers an authentic glimpse into local life and is a great way to see the less-touristy areas of Ho Chi Minh City.
For adventurous souls, biking to Buu Long Pagoda is an option, adding an extra layer of exploration to the journey. Jackfruit Adventure even organizes Ho Chi Minh cycling tours, providing a guided experience to Buu Long Pagoda, allowing visitors to truly soak in the hidden beauty and cultural richness of the Saigon outskirts while cycling through lesser-known paths and scenic spots.
Nearby Attractions to Buu Long Pagoda
While Buu Long Pagoda itself is a peaceful sanctuary, there are a few other sites in District 9 worth exploring, each offering a unique experience that complements the pagoda’s serene atmosphere.
One nearby gem is the Ao Dai Museum, located just 2.7 kilometers from Buu Long Pagoda. This museum, nestled in lush greenery, celebrates Vietnam’s traditional Ao Dai garment with an impressive collection of designs spanning decades. Walking through the museum’s gardens and exhibitions feels like a journey into Vietnam’s cultural past, where each Ao Dai reflects the elegance and heritage of Vietnamese attire.
Exploring District 9 around Buu Long Pagoda provides a refreshing escape from Ho Chi Minh City’s vibrant chaos, allowing visitors to experience the quieter, rural side of the region. The area’s landscapes, dotted with local villages and traditional farms, capture the essence of an unhurried, authentic lifestyle.
For those interested in venturing farther, the majestic Chau Thoi Temple lies approximately 15 kilometers from Buu Long Pagoda. Perched atop a mountain, this temple offers both spiritual richness and breathtaking views of the landscape below. Approaching Chau Thoi Temple from a distance is awe-inspiring, with the temple’s colorful architecture standing out against the surrounding greenery. This journey adds an adventurous element to any visit to Buu Long Pagoda, as travelers can experience two remarkable temples in one journey.
Visiting Tips for Buu Long Pagoda
For those seeking a truly captivating experience, the best time to visit Buu Long Pagoda is early in the morning. The first rays of sunlight illuminate the golden stupa, casting a warm glow across the pagoda’s intricate architecture and creating a scene that feels almost ethereal. However, any time during the pagoda’s opening hours offers a wonderful opportunity to explore, as Buu Long Pagoda is known for its peaceful ambiance, unlike many bustling attractions in Ho Chi Minh City.
As a functioning place of worship, respectful attire is essential for all visitors to Buu Long Pagoda. To honor the temple’s sanctity, dress modestly with attire that covers both shoulders and knees.
Photography Tips for Capturing Buu Long Pagoda
Buu Long Pagoda is a photographer’s delight, presenting countless photo opportunities with its stunning design elements. The pool and fountain in front of the pagoda add a serene foreground to shots of the golden towers, while the intricate dragon sculptures and Buddha statues provide rich, textural details. This harmonious blend of architecture and landscape makes the pagoda an ideal subject for photography, capturing both its beauty and tranquility.
Weekends and certain afternoons may see a slight uptick in visitors, as locals often visit to enjoy the temple and take photographs. For a quieter and more serene experience, consider visiting on a weekday, when you can fully immerse yourself in the peaceful atmosphere of Buu Long Pagoda.
Is Buu Long Pagoda Worth Visiting?
Absolutely, Buu Long Pagoda is well worth visiting for those looking to experience a distinct side of Ho Chi Minh City’s spiritual heritage. Tucked away from the bustling center, this temple offers a beautiful blend of Southeast Asian architectural influences, featuring ornate details inspired by Thai and Indian styles, but with uniquely Vietnamese touches, including dragon motifs and decorative crane symbols.
Surrounded by lush landscapes and the calming flow of the Dong Nai River, Buu Long Pagoda provides a serene retreat that invites reflection. Visitors can explore the expansive grounds, admire the intricate sculptures, and even sample vegetarian meals at the temple’s small eatery. Climbing to the top of the main stupa offers breathtaking views over the surrounding area, adding to the peaceful experience.
Buu Long Pagoda is a wonderful addition to the city’s diverse religious landmarks. For a well-rounded exploration, consider visiting other notable temples like the floating Phu Chau Temple, the historic Ba Thien Hau Pagoda, the classic Jade Emperor Pagoda or exploring iconic oldest temples in Ho Chi Minh City. Each of these sites presents its own unique cultural and historical significance, making Ho Chi Minh City a rich tapestry of spiritual experiences.
Let’s Wrap It Up
In essence, Buu Long Pagoda offers a unique and tranquil escape, blending Southeast Asian and Vietnamese architectural elements for a truly memorable experience. For travelers interested in exploring Ho Chi Minh City’s spiritual diversity, this pagoda, along with other iconic sites, is a must-visit to connect with Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage.
For more ways to explore Vietnam and its dynamic cities, check out our other articles:
- 25 unusual things to do in Ho Chi Minh
- 12 must-do tours in Ho Chi Minh
- 26 highlights in Ho Chi Minh’s Chinatown
- 20 Things To Do In Ho Chi Minh City At Night
- 25 Things to Do with Kids in Ho Chi Minh City
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