Ho Chi Minh is 'shabby chic' central. No fancy expensive paint treatments, no hours of distressing with sanders. It just is. Even the Pagodas, it's like religion does 'shabby chic'. Elle Decoration should do an article here!
Thien Hau Pagoda, built by the Cantonese in C19th. It is believed that the goddess Thien Hau travels over the seas and up to the skies on a magic carpet as and when she pleases...
This Pagoda was so beautiful. We spent so long here soaking up the atmosphere... the giant spirals of incense hanging from the ceiling, wafting their fragrances and dancing in the breeze. Pink papers lined the walls with wishes to the Gods and goddesses, and the building itself - the freezes surrounding the courtyard and entrance were just stunning. A real wow of Pagodas! (Not so fun when the incense ash falls on you though - ouch!)
We walked around Cholon, the district Thein Hau is in. There's not much of the old French Colonial Saigon left sadly. A few glimpses can be found behind the shop hoardings, but it was an interesting walk around the area famous for it's herbs and spices... and various disturbing looking potions...
The Jade Emperor Pagoda also tempted us in, the other side of Ho Chi Minh... not as wow as Thein Hau, but still an amazing fog of insense, candles and imposing statues. This Pagoda was built in 1909, again by the Cantonese. It honours the supreme Taoist God, the Jade Emperor - the King of Heaven...
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More interesting places, more exciting experiences,more lovely photos ... such an inspiring journey.
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