Hanoi Temples and Pagodas That are Worth Your Visit

Beyond its spectacular landscapes, Vietnam is also a deeply spiritual land, where ancestor worship and respect for past generations hold an essential place in daily life. All over the country, temples and pagodas bear witness to this sacred dimension and offer travelers a unique immersion into the Vietnamese soul. In this guide, we invite you to discover some of the most famous Hanoi temples and pagodas - places of serenity and culture that are an absolute must-see during your stay.

1. Temple of Literature

At the heart of Hanoi lies the Temple of Literature, a place of profound significance. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, it is more than just a monument—it symbolizes Vietnam's long scholarly tradition. A few years after its founding, it became the country's first university, the Imperial Academy (Quoc Tu Giam), educating the nation’s elites for nearly 700 years.

As you walk through its five courtyards, you'll discover peaceful gardens, lotus ponds, and elegant pavilions. The famous stone steles, perched on the backs of sacred tortoises, bear the names of imperial exam laureates, reminding visitors of the importance of knowledge and perseverance. To this day, students and families come here to pray for academic success, maintaining a vibrant connection to the past. Visiting this iconic temple in Hanoi is an essential experience for anyone interested in Vietnam's intellectual and spiritual history.

2. One Pillar Pagoda

Celebrated as one of Asia's most unique architectural gems, the One Pillar Pagoda is a must-see spiritual site. Built in 1049 during the reign of King Ly Thai Tong, it has undergone numerous restorations over the centuries. This masterpiece of traditional Vietnamese architecture rests entirely on a single stone column, symbolizing a lotus flower emerging from the water—a Buddhist symbol of purity. The pagoda is a stunning sight and a key highlight for any Hanoi city tour.

3. Tran Quoc Pagoda

As you stroll along West Lake, you'll be impressed by the ancient silhouette of the Tran Quoc Pagoda. Built on an islet, this nearly 1,500-year-old sanctuary is considered the oldest in Hanoi. It served as a major center for Buddhism during the Ly and Tran dynasties. The best times to visit are sunrise or sunset, when the light offers a magical setting for photography.

4. Quan Su Pagoda

Located in the heart of the city, the Quan Su Pagoda is the official headquarters of the Buddhist Sangha of Vietnam. Founded in the 15th century, its harmonious architecture blends tradition with modernity, creating a peaceful setting for meditation. This peaceful Hanoi pagoda provides a vital look into contemporary Vietnamese Buddhism.

5. Ngoc Son Temple

Perched on Jade Islet in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple is one of Hanoi's most cherished sanctuaries. You cross the iconic, bright-red The Huc Bridge—"where the morning sun rests"—to reach it. Inside, the scent of incense and stunning calligraphy create a serene atmosphere perfect for a break while exploring the city center.

6. Quan Thanh Temple (North)

Hanoi is protected by four ancient temples. These four Hanoi temples were strategically built to guard the four cardinal directions—North, South, East, and West—of the former imperial citadel of Thang Long. Therefore, local people call it Thăng Long Tứ Trấn (Four Sacred Temples of Thang Long). Each is dedicated to a guardian deity, making them a crucial part of Hanoi's spiritual identity.

First of all, we have Quan Thanh Temple to the North. Dating back to the 11th century, this majestic Hanoi temple is dedicated to the Taoist deity Huyen Thien Tran Vu, the protector of the North. It features an impressive bronze statue of the deity weighing nearly four tons. Surrounded by ancient trees, this majestic temple is a peaceful place to explore Hanoi's spiritual history.

7. Kim Lien Temple (South)

Located in Dong Da district, Kim Lien Temple is one of the four sacred temples built to protect the ancient citadel. Dedicated to Cao Son Dai Vuong, a tutelary deity, this temple is less crowded than others and offers an authentic, peaceful experience.

8. Voi Phuc Temple (West)

Nestled in Thu Le Park, Voi Phuc Temple (meaning "Prostrating Elephants") protects the West. Its name comes from the two monumental elephant statues guarding the entrance. Dedicated to the legendary Prince Linh Lang, it's a serene sanctuary that combines spirituality with a scenic walk.

9. Bach Ma Temple (East)

The oldest temple in Hanoi, Bach Ma Temple is situated in the heart of the Old Quarter. Built in the 11th century, it is dedicated to the mythical white horse that guided King Ly Thai To in building the city's walls. This is an unmissable stop for anyone wanting to understand the founding legends of the capital.

10. Kim Ngan Communal House

This is one of the oldest and best-preserved communal houses in Hanoi's Old Quarter. Built in the 15th century, Kim Ngan Communal House was dedicated to the ancestors of the silversmiths' guild. Today, it hosts cultural exhibitions and traditional music performances, offering an authentic glimpse into Hanoi's past.

11. Tay Ho Palace

Situated on a peninsula in West Lake, Tay Ho Palace is a revered sanctuary dedicated to the Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh. It attracts crowds of worshippers praying for prosperity and luck. The palace's stunning location and vibrant religious atmosphere make it a perfect spot for a sunset stroll.

12. Van Nien Pagoda

Nested on the southern shore of West Lake, Van Nien Pagoda is one of Hanoi's oldest and most respected sanctuaries. Founded over a thousand years ago, it was dedicated to the Buddhist goddess Quan Am, the symbol of compassion and benevolence. Its elegant architecture, with curved roofs, finely sculpted statues, and richly decorated altars, reflects the sophistication of Vietnamese religious art.

Surrounded by ancient trees and bathed in a peaceful atmosphere, Van Nien Pagoda offers an ideal place for meditation and reflection. Less crowded than other pagodas, it captivates visitors with its authenticity and serene setting, making it a perfect spot to discover the discreet yet profound spiritual dimension of the capital.

13. Perfume Pagoda

A trip to the Perfume Pagoda is a journey in itself. Located southwest of Hanoi, this famous Buddhist complex is accessible by a scenic boat ride on the Yen River. The site includes numerous temples and grottoes, with the main one being the stunning Huong Tich Cave. This pilgrimage site is a top spiritual and cultural destination, especially during its spring festival.

14. Thay Pagoda (Master's Pagoda)

About 20 kilometers from Hanoi, Thay Pagoda is dedicated to the monk Tu Dao Hanh, a master of water puppetry. The complex includes sanctuaries, a wooden covered bridge, and a water puppet theater, highlighting the origin of this unique Vietnamese art form. It's a fantastic trip for those seeking a mix of spirituality, nature, and culture.

15. Tay Phuong Pagoda (West Pagoda)

Located on a hill, the Tay Phuong Pagoda is renowned for its unique architecture and exceptional wooden sculptures. The interior houses a remarkable collection of lacquered and gilded wooden statues, considered masterpieces of Vietnamese art. The pagoda also offers a serene atmosphere and panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.

The Vietnam's capital is more than just bustling streets and delicious cuisine, Hanoi temples and pagodas reveal an intimate side, full of spirituality and memory. Each sanctuary, from the most famous to the most secluded, invites you to slow down, listen to stories of the past, and feel the devotion of a people deeply attached to their traditions. Discovering these places is experiencing Vietnam in a different way, in all its cultural and human depth.

See more:

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• The Hanoi Heritage Train: A newly launched journey through time and culture
• 10+ Unique Hanoi souvenirs to bring home
• Unmissable Hanoi markets to explore