Centuries old isn’t it? This is Đình Bình Đông.
From the Bà Tàng bridge a 300-meter stroll along the Bà Tàng canal reveals a peaceful islet. It’s about two hectares. On this islet sits Đình Bình Đông. This temple is imposing majestic and inspires respect. On the first and fifteenth days of each lunar month people from all over Ho Chi Minh City and neighboring provinces come here. They come to worship and to offer prayers. This place is known as the “Bình Đông Assembly Hall”.
The temple’s history stretches far back. It was built on this islet near the Kinh Đối River. It’s located in District 8 of Ho Chi Minh City. According to Trịnh Hoài Đức’s “Gia Định Thành Thông Chí” Bình Đông belonged to Tân Phong district Tân Long prefecture Tân Bình province in 1818. The temple received a royal decree in 1853. This means Đình Bình Đông must have existed before 1853. The decree honored the local deity as “Holy Emperor Benevolent Protector”. The date on the decree is November 29th 1853.
Local legends say the temple has ancient origins. Initially the structure was simple a house-like building. It served as a communal house for the surrounding villagers. In 1922 the temple underwent renovations. A new roof was added. The design was influenced by Southern temples. It featured a five-section main hall with East and West wings. There was even a Nghĩa Tế hall. In 1930 another major renovation occurred. A new two-tiered roof replaced the old one. The tile work was also updated.
The war years impacted Đình Bình Đông. During the 1968 Tet Offensive the temple was bombed. Parts of the roof and main hall were destroyed. However by 1991 the temple was rebuilt. Original materials like bronze and iron were used. The main structure’s design was preserved. A new Truyền Thống (Tradition) hall was added.
The temple’s surroundings haven’t changed dramatically. But some old structures are gone. Remaining artifacts are stunning. Inside the main hall are intricately carved statues. These include the main deity. The temple halls are decorated with ornate carvings. These carvings show dragons and auspicious symbols. The deity’s altar features a majestic canopy. This canopy is decorated with gilded flowers and fine detail. The altar’s base is also elaborate. Incense burners are placed on both sides of the altar.
Intricate floral carvings adorn the pillars around the altar. Four other equally artistic incense burners are arranged. These are also in the main hall. They’re strategically positioned. The main hall also contains embroidered tapestries. These show images of plum orchids chrysanthemum and bamboo. There are also plaques. One plaque marks 1870. Another describes the deity as a “Spirit Guiding and Protecting” dated to 1850.
The Nghĩa Tế hall has two side altars. These feature depictions of local heroes. The Truyền Thống hall houses photos. These photos depict the historical activities of President Tôn Đức Thắng in Saigon. There are also images of Ngũ Hành (Five Elements) the goddess of the sea. There’s also an altar dedicated to the local spirit of the sea. It’s close to the Tam Quan Gate. The courtyard has a stage for traditional performances. It’s used during annual celebrations.
So next time you are in Ho Chi Minh City remember Đình Bình Đông. This temple offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history and culture. It’s a place where past and present meet. This is truly a sacred space. It embodies the enduring spirit of the Vietnamese people.