Los Angeles is home to a vibrant Vietnamese Buddhist community, with temples that have served as spiritual anchors and cultural gathering places for generations. From neighborhood chùa to historic pagodas, these spaces welcome visitors for meditation, prayer, and the celebration of Tết, Vesak, and other Buddhist holidays. Whether you are Vietnamese American reconnecting with your roots or a visitor curious about Vietnamese spirituality, you will find warm hospitality at every door.
Chua Viet Nam (Vietnamese Buddhist Temple) top-pick
Daily prayer services and meditation
The oldest and largest Vietnamese Buddhist temple in the United States, founded in the 1970s. Located in Koreatown, this historic temple has welcomed generations of Vietnamese Americans and remains a cornerstone of LA Vietnamese spiritual life. Regular services, meditation, and major Buddhist holiday celebrations are held throughout the year.
Thien Hau Temple best-value
Daily 10am to 3pm (varies)
A beautifully ornate Chinese-Vietnamese temple in Chinatown dedicated to the goddess Thien Hau, protector of seafarers. While the temple predates the Vietnamese community, it has become an important spiritual stop for Vietnamese Catholics and Buddhists alike. The rooftop garden and intricate ceramic sculptures make it a popular cultural landmark.
Quan Am Pagoda hidden-gem
Call for service times
A peaceful Vietnamese Buddhist pagoda dedicated to Quan Am, the bodhisattva of compassion. Known for its welcoming community and strong female leadership, this temple offers a quieter alternative to LA's larger Vietnamese temples. The grounds feature a serene garden and traditional altar room.
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Tam Bao Buddhist Temple
Services and meditation sessions
A Vietnamese Buddhist temple serving the Westside Vietnamese community, named after the Three Jewels of Buddhism. Founded in the 2000s, the temple offers weekly services in Vietnamese, meditation classes, and hosts community cultural events throughout the year.
Chua Dai The (Dai The Temple)
Weekend services and meditation
A Vietnamese Buddhist temple located in the heart of Koreatown serving the surrounding Vietnamese community. The temple is known for its traditional ceremonies, Vesak (Buddha birthday) celebrations, and youth Buddhist education programs conducted in Vietnamese.