Temples are for the worship of Saints and important Gods (Thien Hau Holy Mother of the Chinese, Quan Cong of the Chinese and Vietnamese) while shrines are for the worship of genies who are closer to the people (Goddesses of the five elements Metal, Wood, Water, Fire and Earth; the Founder of the bird nest gathering occupation...)

Temples are always imposing, large and sometimes majestic. Shrines are much simpler and smaller. However both are important and respected equally by the people. They often go to both temples and shrines on the 14th,15th,30th and 1st days of every lunar month.