"War and Peace" a Ho Chi Minh City Travel Page by yellowbell

Cao Dai (high abode or roofless tower) Temple is one of the off-beaten paths in Ho Chi Minh and part of the tour stop when you go to Cu Chi Tunnels (taken through Sinh Cafe). This is the first time I encountered this religious sect because I soon found out that this was founded in Vietnam.

God is symbolized by the Eye which in turn represents the heart. Notice the different colored robes of the priests, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Caodaism. Women worshippers wear their hair long and wear white to symbolize being pure.

There are 4 daily services, 6 am, 12 noon, 6 pm and midnight. I have observed the noon religious services from the terrace of the temple.
There's a separate entrance for men and women and you have to remove your shoes as you enter the temple.

Everything I visited in Ho Chi Minh City seemed to revolve around the war in the late 60s - Cu chi Tunnels, War Remnants Museum, and the Reunification Palace. Vivid images of the destruction and suffering brought by that war will disturb you.

Despite the ravages of war, I felt comfortable in Vietnam, savouring its tasty bread and slurping healthy pho, shopping in its markets, promenading in its tree lined avenues and communicating with the gentle locals. The markets are abuzz with quiet activity so unlike the markets of Hongkong. I can definitely say that hardwork is valued there especially when you see those ao dai and hand embroidered silk bags.