The Stunning Architecture of Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho, Tien Giang

Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho, Tien Giang, is a masterpiece of architectural fusion, seamlessly blending Vietnamese, Chinese, Khmer, and European styles. As the largest pagoda in the Mekong Delta, its intricate designs, vibrant statues, and serene gardens make it a must-visit for architecture enthusiasts, spiritual seekers, and eco-tourists. Recognized as a national historical and cultural relic, this 14,000-square-meter sanctuary also serves as a community hub, offering a glimpse into Buddhist heritage. Legend Travel Group, a leader in sustainable tourism, curates eco-friendly tours to marvel at Vinh Trang’s architectural splendor while supporting local communities. Start your journey—book our tours via links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Note

Tien Giang Province, with My Tho as its vibrant hub, now includes the former Dong Thap Province, enhancing its appeal as a premier eco-tourism destination. Upgraded infrastructure, including cycling paths and electric boat networks, supports sustainable visits to Vinh Trang and My Tho’s attractions, aligning with the “Green Delta” initiative.

With 17 years of expertise, Legend Travel Group is Southeast Asia’s leading sustainable tour operator, dedicated to showcasing Vietnam’s cultural and architectural treasures. Our Vinh Trang tours combine eco-friendly transport—bicycles and electric boats—with guided explorations of the pagoda’s unique design, offering insights into Buddhist heritage. Supporting My Tho’s communities, we provide transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support. Book our tours via links on this page for an authentic, eco-conscious experience!

Located at Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Mỹ An Hamlet, Ward 8, My Tho City, Vinh Trang Pagoda spans 14,000 square meters and is renowned for its eclectic architectural style. Initially built as a modest hermitage in the early 19th century by District Chief Bùi Công Đạt, it was expanded in 1849 by Abbot Thích Huệ Đăng and reconstructed in 1907 by Thích Chánh Hậu. The pagoda’s design blends Vietnamese, Chinese, and Khmer elements with European influences, including Renaissance motifs and Japanese enameled tiles. Its iconic triple gate, seven-story tower, and 178 intricately carved pillars make it a standout cultural landmark. Surrounded by lush gardens, it serves as the office of Tien Giang’s Buddhist Association and a refuge for orphans and the disadvantaged. Tien Giang’s tropical climate—dry season (December–April, 25–34°C or 77–93.2°F) and rainy season (May–November, 22–30°C or 71.6–86°F)—enhances its serene ambiance.

1. Iconic Triple Gate

Crafted in 1933 by Hue artisans, the triple gate features porcelain mosaics depicting dragons, phoenixes, and Buddhist tales. The central gate, typically closed, is flanked by two open side gates, blending concrete and steel in a harmonious design.

• Cost: Free entry; donations appreciated ($1–$5 or 25,000–125,000 VND).

• Hours: 6:30 AM–7:30 PM daily.

• Highlights: Intricate mosaics, Asian-European fusion, photogenic facade.

• Tips: Capture photos from a distance for the full effect; included in our My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80).

2. Seven-Story Amitabha Buddha Statue

The 24-meter Amitabha Buddha statue, perched atop a seven-story tower, is a striking feature, blending Khmer and European architectural elements.

• Cost: Free with entry; guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 6:30 AM–7:30 PM daily.

• Highlights: Tower’s resemblance to Angkor Wat, panoramic views from the base.

• Tips: Respect sacred areas; avoid climbing the tower without permission.

3. Main Hall and Statues

The main hall houses over 60 gilded Buddha, Arhat, and Bodhisattva statues, including 18 wooden Arhat statues (80 cm tall, 58 cm wide) carved in 1907 by southern artisans. Statues of Thích Chánh Hậu and Thích Minh Đàn add historical significance.

• Cost: Free with entry; guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 6:30 AM–7:30 PM daily.

• Highlights: Intricate wood carvings, spiritual ambiance, Buddhist art.

• Tips: Photograph respectfully; included in our My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80).

4. Lush Ornamental Gardens

Surrounding the pagoda, the gardens feature bonsai, lotus ponds, and ancient trees, creating a serene setting for reflection.

• Cost: Free with entry; guided garden tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 6:30 AM–7:30 PM daily.

• Highlights: Lotus flowers, tranquil pathways, shaded relaxation.

• Tips: Visit in the morning for cooler weather; included in our Tien Giang Eco-Tour ($65–$85).

5. Fusion of Asian and European Elements

The pagoda’s facade blends Renaissance motifs, French decorative flowers, and Japanese enameled tiles, creating a unique aesthetic resembling Angkor Wat’s five-tower silhouette from afar.

• Cost: Free with entry; guided architectural tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

• Hours: 6:30 AM–7:30 PM daily.

• Highlights: Eclectic design, netlike panels, vibrant tiles.

• Tips: Join a guided tour for detailed architectural insights.

• Guided Architectural Tours: Explore the pagoda’s design with expert guides explaining its Asian-European fusion.

• Photography: Capture the triple gate, seven-story tower, and gardens for stunning shots.

• Spiritual Immersion: Attend monk chanting ceremonies around 10:00 AM to connect with Buddhist traditions.

• Garden Strolls: Wander the lush grounds for a peaceful experience amidst bonsai and lotus ponds.

• Combine with My Tho Attractions: Pair with visits to Cai Be Floating Market or Thoi Son Island for a full experience.

• Tips:

  • Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees); remove shoes before entering the main hall.

  • Book guided eco-tours for deeper architectural insights; included in our tours.

  • Visit during Tet for festive decorations and vibrant ceremonies.

From Ho Chi Minh City (70 km, ~1.5–2 hours)

1. By Bus

   • Route: Take a bus from Mien Tay Bus Station (395 Kinh Duong Vuong, Binh Tan District) to My Tho Bus Station (Le Thi Hong Gam Street), then a taxi to Vinh Trang.

   • Cost: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) to My Tho; $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) to pagoda.

   • Providers: Futa Bus (Tel: +84 1900 6067), Thanh Buoi.

   • Tips: Book via VeXeRe or Baolau for convenience.

2. By Car/Taxi

   • Route: Follow National Highway 1A to My Tho, then Nguyễn Trung Trực Street to Vinh Trang (C9C9+VRQ, My Tho).

   • Cost: $25–$40 (625,000–1,000,000 VND).

   • Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84 2773 686 868), Grab app.

   • Tips: Ideal for groups; confirm address with drivers.

3. By Motorbike

   • Route: Follow Kinh Duong Vuong Street to National Highway 1A, then Nguyễn Trung Trực Street.

   • Cost: $5–$10/day (125,000–250,000 VND) for rental; fuel $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

   • Providers: Mekong Moto Rentals, HCMC (+84 938 456 789).

   • Tips: Use offline maps (Maps.me); not recommended for inexperienced riders.

From My Tho (4 km, ~10–15 minutes)

1. By Taxi

   • Route: From My Tho center, head to Nguyễn Trung Trực Street, Mỹ An Hamlet.

   • Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

   • Providers: Mai Linh Taxi (+84 2773 686 868), Grab app.

   • Tips: Quick and affordable; confirm pagoda address.

2. By Bicycle

   • Route: Cycle via Nguyễn Trung Trực Street from My Tho center.

   • Cost: $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND) for rental.

   • Providers: Local rentals at hotels like Central Plaza Hotel My Tho.

   • Tips: Eco-friendly; use offline maps.

3. By Guided Tour (Recommended)

   • Cost: $60–$80/person for a day tour; $300–$450 for a 2–3 day Mekong Delta immersion.

   • Details: Includes transport from My Tho or Ho Chi Minh City, entry, guide, and activities like fruit tasting.

   • Tour Option: My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80).

   • Tips: Book via Legend Travel Group for seamless travel.

• Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for garden strolls and photography; Tet (January–February, lunar calendar) features vibrant festivals and ceremonies.

• Rainy Season (May–November): Lush greenery, fewer crowds; enjoy 10–20% tour discounts.

• Tips: Visit around 10:00 AM for monk chanting; book 3–4 weeks in advance for Tet.

Pack for a sustainable pagoda visit:

• Clothing: Modest attire (cover shoulders and knees); lightweight for dry season; raincoat ($3–$6 or 75,000–150,000 VND) for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes; remove shoes before entering sacred areas.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella.

• Tech Gear: Smartphone or camera for photos; portable charger.

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for souvenirs, bamboo straw for sustainability.

Tip: Carry VND (50,000–200,000 notes) for donations or souvenirs; use a waterproof backpack in rainy season.

• Entry: Free; donations $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND) appreciated.

• Activities: Guided tours $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND); bicycle rental $2–$4/day (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Dining: Meals at nearby eateries (e.g., Mekong Taste Restaurant): $2–$8 (50,000–200,000 VND); drinks $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).

• Accommodation (My Tho):

  • Homestays (e.g., Happy Farm Tien Giang Homestay): $10–$25/night (250,000–625,000 VND).

  • Hotels (e.g., Central Plaza Hotel My Tho): $20–$50/night (500,000–1,250,000 VND).

  • Resorts: $80–$150/night (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

• Transport:

  • Bus from Ho Chi Minh City to My Tho: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

  • Taxi from My Tho to Vinh Trang: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost:

• Budget: $15–$35 (bus, entry, homestay, meals).

• Mid-range: $35–$70 (guided tours, hotel, dining).

• Luxury: $100–$180 (resorts, private tours, upscale dining).

Tip: Use ATMs in My Tho for cash; carry small VND notes for donations.

• Book Early: Reserve tours via Legend Travel Group (WhatsApp: +84825862222) 3–4 weeks in advance, especially for Tet or summer.

• Seasonal Tips:

  • Dry Season: Pack sunscreen; ideal for garden exploration and photography.

  • Rainy Season: Bring waterproof gear; enjoy lush greenery.

• Sustainability: Support the pagoda’s community work with donations; use eco-transport like bicycles.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); save Vinh Trang Pagoda (C9C9+VRQ, My Tho) as a landmark.

• Safety: Secure valuables; respect sacred spaces by staying quiet.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly; remove shoes and hats before entering the main hall; greet monks with “xin chào” (hello); tip guides $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Health: Stay hydrated ($0.50 or 12,500 VND per bottle); apply mosquito repellent in gardens.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Tien Giang’s cultural and natural gems:

• My Tho Cultural Tour ($60–$80/person): Explore Vinh Trang Pagoda, My Tho Night Market, and enjoy “Don Ca Tai Tu” music. Includes eco-transfers, lunch, guide.

• Tien Giang Foodie Tour ($65–$85/person): Savor Hủ Tiếu Mỹ Tho, bánh bèo, and join coconut candy workshops. Includes eco-transfers, meals, guide.

• Cai Be Eco-Tour ($70–$90/person): Visit Vinh Trang, Cai Be Floating Market, and cycle through orchards. Includes boat transfers, tastings, guide.

• Mekong Delta Immersion ($300–$450/person, 2–3 days): Explore Vinh Trang, Cai Be, Thoi Son Island, and homestays ($10–$25/night). Includes meals, activities, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Get 10% off for groups of 8+ or seasonal promotions. Book via links around this page!

Vinh Trang Pagoda in My Tho, Tien Giang, is an architectural marvel, blending Asian and European styles with intricate statues and serene gardens. As a cultural and spiritual landmark, it offers a profound experience for visitors. Legend Travel Group’s Tien Giang Tours guide you through Vinh Trang’s unique design, ensuring a sustainable Tien Giang Travel experience that supports eco-friendly practices and local communities. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Vinh Trang adventure today!
Ready to marvel at Vinh Trang’s stunning architecture? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and dive into My Tho’s cultural heart!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.

Sources: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group