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With its solemn ancient architecture, picturesque and poetic landscapes, and possession of numerous precious Buddhist artifacts, Thien Mu Pagoda, located along the Perfume River, is a majestic scenic spot ranking among the unique artistic heritage sites.
Exploring Hue: Listening to the Bell of Thien Mu Pagoda - an Ancient Temple of Grandeur
The Origin of Thien Mu Pagoda
In 1601, Lord Nguyen Hoang witnessed the Thien Mu Pagoda on Ha Khe Hill, alongside the Perfume River. The pagoda was considered the national pagoda by later Nguyen lords and was taken care of, renovated, preserved, and expanded with many constructions, making its appearance even more magnificent.
Existing for over 420 years, enduring many ups and downs, Thien Mu Pagoda remains one of the most prominent symbols of the ancient capital region, attracting tourists from both inside and outside the country.
From the construction commissioned by Lord Nguyen Hoang in 1601 until Bao Dai's abdication in 1945, the Nguyen dynasty has been closely associated with Thien Mu Pagoda for 344 years. From architectural beliefs to philosophical ideologies, from overall layout to details, including gate towers, bell towers, worship halls, architectural decorations, statues, bonsai trees... all bear the presence of the royal court.
Of particular note, Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu made a profound mark on the overall architecture of the pagoda. In 1710, he cast the largest bronze bell in the region, displaying the harmony of triple religion ideologies. The bell was recognized as a national treasure in 2013.
In 1665, Lord Nguyen Phuc Tan carried out renovations on the pagoda, but the scale of the work is unclear from historical records. It was only after the major restoration in 1714 under Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu that the scale and appearance of the pagoda were described quite comprehensively.
Following the major restoration, the pagoda underwent the construction of dozens of structures: the Heavenly King Hall, the Dai Hung Hall, the Ngoc Hoang Hall, the Preaching Hall, the Scripture Tower, along with bell towers, drum towers, the Ten Kings Hall, the Tri Vi House, the Cloud and Water House, monk rooms, meditation houses...
Behind the pagoda lies the Ty Family Garden, which includes dozens of traditional houses. This demonstrates the significant contributions of Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu, showcasing his profound religious devotion.
Explore Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda is enclosed by stone and brick walls shaped like turtles. Upon entering the pagoda, visitors will encounter Phuoc Duyen Tower, the first and foremost symbol of the pagoda. The seven-tiered tower is constructed of bricks and stands 21 meters tall. Next, visitors will arrive at Dai Hung Palace, the main hall. Outside the pagoda's premises, there are numerous meticulously tended flowers and trees.
Walking through the garden behind the pagoda, visitors will pass by the spot where Venerable Thich Quang Duc's car is displayed, the car he left before self-immolating. At the end of the pagoda is the tomb tower area of the former abbot, Thich Don Hau. The pine forest surrounding the tomb adds to the solemnity of the pagoda's atmosphere.
Thien Mu Pagoda is also famous for the rumor that couples who visit together may risk breaking up, a tale still circulating among the people of Hue and tourists. Whether true or not, this rumor remains unverified, perhaps merely a legend like other folk tales.
Around January and February, the pleasant spring weather makes it the best time to visit the pagoda. In May and June, when the phoenix flowers bloom in vibrant red, it's also an enticing time to explore. For a perfect trip to Hue, you can combine a visit to Thien Mu Pagoda with the Imperial City, Minh Mang Tomb, Hon Chen Palace, and Huyen Khong Son Thuong Pagoda.
The pagoda is open to visitors from early morning until 6 p.m., and visitors are advised to dress modestly and keep noise levels down. After touring the entire pagoda, visitors can enjoy Hue's tofu pudding from the street vendors at the pagoda's entrance. If visiting in the afternoon, don't miss staying to admire the dreamy sunset over the Perfume River.
From the Imperial City, Dong Ba Market, Trang Tien Bridge... you can easily travel by bicycle, motorbike, or taxi to reach the pagoda. For a more romantic experience, you can opt for a dragon boat ride from Toa Kham Wharf or a cyclo ride from any location.
As per Mytour
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Reference: Mytour travel guide
MytourSeptember 26th, 2022
