Temples

Temples and pagodas are often confused in Vietnam, but they have distinct architectures, purposes, and customs. Understanding the differences between temples and pagodas is essential for a more enjoyable Vietnam trip.

Temples are built to worship a saint or historical figure, often with local folklore attached. In the spiritual world of Vietnam, deities of human origin, such as famous emperors and national heroes, hold influential positions in the afterlife and receive specific prayers. While Buddha is the highest-ranking deity, other figures are choosier in answering prayers. In Vietnamese, the terms "đền" and "chùa" are used to refer to temples and pagodas respectively.