Phap Hoa Pagoda

About this location

Phap Hoa Pagoda - Buddhist Filming Location in Ho Chi Minh City Phap Hoa Pagoda is a Mahayana Buddhist facility dating back to the early 20th century, serving as a religious site deeply tied to the cultural life of the area. Historical records note that the pagoda was founded, built, and underwent multiple restorations throughout its development. The location stands out for its Buddhist architecture, tiled roofs, statue systems, and its direct frontage along the Nhieu Loc - Thi Nghe canal. This canal-side setting offers exterior camera angles that combine religious architecture with urban landscapes. The pagoda also regularly hosts Buddhist activities, including the floating lantern festival during Vesak. With its Mahayana architectural features, spiritual space, and canal-side scenery, this location is well-suited for cultural-religious films, historical dramas, documentaries, social-psychological films, and scenes depicting Saigon's urban lifestyle. Information compilation by: PTIT Photo credit: PTIT

Location rules

• Strictly prohibited content: disclosing state secrets, conducting anti-state propaganda, distorting history, violating sovereignty, undermining national solidarity, and insulting prominent figures or national heroes. (Article 9, Cinema Law)
• Special attention must be paid when filming in Zone I protection areas of special national monuments in Ho Chi Minh City, such as the Cu Chi Tunnels and the Independence Palace; crews must also comply with specialized management regulations for military, security, and national defense zones, as well as facilities and locations requiring special protection.
• International film crews are required to use film production services provided by Vietnamese cinematic establishments and must obtain a License for Providing Film Production Services Using Locations in Vietnam from the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism. The current processing time is 12 working days from the receipt of a complete and valid dossier.

Infrastructure