Buu Long Temple (Thiền viện Bửu Long) stands as one of Ho Chi Minh City’s most striking Buddhist structures, located at 81 Nguyen Xieng, Long Binh Ward, District 9. The temple complex rises majestically from the landscape, combining traditional Vietnamese architecture with distinct Thai and Burmese influences.
Constructed in 1942 by Master Thich Giac Nhien, the temple underwent significant renovation and expansion in 2007. The result is a gleaming white and gold structure that reflects both modern architectural sensibilities and ancient Buddhist design principles. The temple’s elevated position on a small hill provides sweeping views of the surrounding area and the Dong Nai River.
The exterior features multiple tiered roofs typical of Southeast Asian temple architecture, adorned with intricate golden spires and finials. The main stupa, reaching approximately 70 meters in height, dominates the skyline with its brilliant white surface and golden ornaments. Surrounding this central structure are smaller stupas and prayer halls, creating a harmonious architectural ensemble. The temple grounds encompass nearly 11 hectares of landscaped gardens, featuring carefully manicured lawns, meditation paths, and indigenous trees.
The interior of Buu Long Temple reveals equally impressive craftsmanship. The main prayer hall houses a large seated Buddha statue, crafted from pure white marble and positioned beneath an ornately decorated ceiling.
Golden motifs and traditional Buddhist symbols adorn the walls, while intricate wooden carvings detail scenes from Buddhist scripture. The hall’s design emphasizes natural light, with large windows allowing sunlight to illuminate the sacred space throughout the day.
The temple complex includes several distinct areas:
- Main Dharma Hall (Chánh điện): Used for daily prayers and major ceremonies
- Meditation Hall (Thiền đường): A quiet space dedicated to meditation practices
- Library (Thư viện): Housing Buddhist texts and religious literature
- Living Quarters (Tăng xá): Residential areas for resident monks
- Educational Center: Facilities for Buddhist studies and cultural programs
Distinctive features include:
- The seven-tiered golden spire atop the main stupa
- Hand-painted murals depicting the life of Buddha
- A collection of sacred relics housed in the temple’s sanctuary
- Traditional stone lanterns lining the pathways
- Lotus ponds surrounding the main structures
- Intricately carved dragon motifs on the temple gates
The temple’s architectural style represents a unique fusion of traditional Vietnamese temple architecture with elements from other Buddhist cultures, particularly visible in the stupa designs and ornamental details. The use of white as the predominant color, contrasting with golden accents, sets it apart from other temples in the region.
Operating Hours: Daily from 5:00 AM to 6:00 PM Meditation sessions: 5:30 AM and 4:30 PM daily Special ceremonies on full moon days and Buddhist holidays
Visitors should note:
- Proper attire required (shoulders and knees must be covered)
- Photography permitted in exterior areas
- Shoes must be removed before entering prayer halls
- Silent observation requested during meditation sessions
- No admission fee, but donations are accepted
Address: 81 Nguyen Xieng Long Binh Ward, District 9 Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
GPS Coordinates: 10°51’47.5″N 106°47’51.8″E
The temple is accessible via taxi or private vehicle, approximately 45 minutes from downtown Ho Chi Minh City. Public bus routes 150 and 76 also service the area, with stops within walking distance of the temple entrance.
