Top 24 Most Sacred Temples to Visit at the Beginning of the New Year in Northern Vietnam

The Temple of Literature was built in 1070 during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong, dedicated to Confucius, Confucian scholars, and royal mandarins. In 1076, King Ly Nhan Tong established Quoc Tu Giam next to the temple, which served as an imperial academy exclusively for princes and nobles. During the Tran dynasty, Quoc Tu Giam was renamed the National Academy and opened its doors to commoners with exceptional academic abilities. Under the Le dynasty, during the reign of King Le Thanh Tong, stelae honoring doctoral laureates were erected. In the Nguyen dynasty, Quoc Tu Giam was relocated to Hue.

The Temple of Literature in Thang Long was reduced to a provincial school after being renamed to the Temple of Literature in Hanoi. The complex of the Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam covers an area of ​​54,331 square meters and includes various architectural structures. Surrounding the complex are brick walls. Over the years, the complex has undergone many renovations and includes Van Lake, the Temple of Literature Gate, Dai Trung Gate, Khue Van Pavilion, Thien Quang Well, doctoral stelae, Dai Thanh Gate, and the House of Thai Hoc.

The lecture halls on the east and west sides each consist of 14 rooms. The classrooms for students are organized into three rows, each with 25 rooms accommodating two students each. The entire architecture of the Temple of Literature today reflects Nguyen dynasty architectural style. The layout of the Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam follows a north-south axis, simulating the overall planning of the Temple of Confucius in China, albeit in a simpler and more traditional Vietnamese artistic manner. In front of the Temple of Literature is a large pond called Van Chương Lake, formerly known as Thái Hồ. In the middle of the lake is Kim Châu hill, where there used to be a pavilion for sightseeing.

Outside the main gate are four pillars, and on the left and right sides are 'Lower Horse' stelae, surrounded by tall surrounding walls. The Temple of Literature gate is built in the Tam Quan style, with the words 'Temple of Literature Gate' in ancient Chinese characters. Inside the Temple of Literature, there are five distinct areas, each separated by walls and interconnected gates. This place is renowned for students who come to pray for luck every Tet holiday.

Address: 58 Quoc Tu Giam, Van Mieu, Dong Da, Hanoi

Tay Ho Palace is located in Quang An Ward, Tay Ho District, Hanoi City, where Princess Lieu Hanh is worshiped and is one of the four immortals of our country. The unique architecture of Tay Ho Palace consists of three main parts: the front shrine, the middle temple, the rear palace, Son Trang palace, the guesthouse area, the Lady's floor, and the Gentleman's floor. This place also preserves a rich collection of ancient artifacts with cultural, historical, and spiritual value.

This palace is considered one of the sacred temples to pray for fortune and luck at the beginning of the new year. Visitors come here not only to pray for luck but also to admire the beautiful scenery and recall the 'gentle breeze and white clouds' of Princess Lieu Hanh.

In the architectural complex of Tay Ho Palace, there is also Son Trang Cave, which has three new sections built with concrete material resembling wood, following the spiral staircase design with three overlapping roofs. The cave is tall, spacious, and sturdy. On the walls, there are many relief pieces depicting spiritual and divine motifs vividly. The dragon and phoenix heads on the swords are delicate and majestic. With the idea of the inseparable unity of Immortals and Buddhas, on the highest position of Son Trang Cave, Quan The Am Bodhisattva is worshiped. Below is the altar of Mother Earth - Second Mother - Supreme Mother. On the left and right altars, there are two goddesses representing Mother Earth. Additionally, there are twelve queens worshiped, making a total of fifteen.

Address: 52 Dang Thai Mai, Quang An, Tay Ho, Hanoi

Lady Kho Shrine sits atop the Kho Mountain, in Co Me area, Vu Ninh ward, Bac Ninh City. In ancient times, before sturdy dykes were built to prevent flooding, the cave entrance might have served as a harbor for gathering and transferring troops and supplies to various locations.

This was also a strategic military point due to its element of surprise, especially easy to defend and difficult to attack. At nightfall, the Ly Dynasty troops could secretly ambush the enemy forces stationed on the opposite bank of the Như Nguyệt River and then withdraw up to Thi Cau Citadel. In front of Lady Kho Shrine is a large lake surrounded by mountains on three sides, accessible by small boats either to the foot of Chua Mountain or out to Thuy Tien Lake heading south towards the ancient city of Bac Ninh. During the Vietnam War, it was the military base of our ferry company, so it can be inferred that in the past, it may have been the gathering place for Ly Dynasty naval forces.

Lady Kho Shrine is related to the event when Ly Thuong Kiet led the resistance against the Song Dynasty in 1076. At that time, in villages like Co Me, Kho Mountain, and Cau Gao, which were originally storage places for the Ly troops on the southern bank of the Như Nguyệt combat line (Cau River). Kho Mountain, Dinh Mountain, and Thi Cau were also strategic locations that could control the route from Lang Son to Thang Long across the ancient Cau River. Those who borrowed money only needed to write down how much they wanted to borrow, when to repay it, and how much to repay. Therefore, at the end of the year, the shrine bustles with repayment ceremonies to Lady Kho. Starting from the New Year's Eve, tourists flock here, especially on the 14th day of each month, which hosts the main festival, attracting a large number of visitors to sightsee and pray for fortune.

Address: Diem Village, Co Me, Vu Ninh, Bac Ninh City, Bac Ninh

Ha Pagoda is an ancient temple, built with merit from the time of King Ly Nhan Tong (1054 - 1072). The temple's self-name is Thanh Duc Tu. Ha Pagoda, together with Boi Ha Communal House, forms a cluster of relics called Ha Temple. This place is famous for fulfilling wishes for love. Ha Pagoda in Hanoi is divided into separate areas with altars for Buddha and separate altars for Mother Goddesses.

Currently, Ha Pagoda venerates many deities such as Mr. Ong, Mr. Saint Hien, along with Buddhas and the three Mother Goddesses. It is believed that these deities will bring peace, prosperity, and complete love if worshipped with sincerity. After offering incense and visiting Ha Pagoda, you can step into Boi Ha Communal House next door. Inside the communal house is an altar of Thanh Hoang Trieu Chi Thanh village. He was a great general who expelled the enemy from our country under the reign of Trieu Viet Vuong (in 550, the 6th century).

While other temples focus on elderly people coming to burn incense and pray, at Ha Pagoda, it's mainly students, young people, both men and women, who come here to pray for love. Ha Pagoda is also known as the Temple of Love, located in Chua Ha street, Trung village, Dich Vong ward, Cau Giay district, Hanoi. Every year, on New Year's Day, young girls, boys, and couples gather here to pray for good relationships.

The rituals at Ha Pagoda are simple, just a little gold, flowers, betel leaves, and money offered to the Buddhas to pray for beautiful relationships. Coming here during the Lunar New Year, visitors can also have fortune-telling, horoscope reading, and fortune prediction to anticipate good relationships. Those who encounter relationship difficulties, unhappiness in their happy couple life during the Lunar New Year should remember to visit this temple to pray for luck, and surely you will encounter good luck because this temple is very sacred.

Address: Ha Pagoda, Dich Vong, Cau Giay, Hanoi

Tran Temple is the temple dedicated to the kings of the Tran dynasty and their officials who contributed to the Tran dynasty. The temple is located in Loc Vuong Ward, Nam Dinh City. Tran Temple consists of three architectural structures: the Upper Temple, the Lower Temple, and the Ancient Citadel. The Tran Temple historical site includes three main architectural structures: the Thien Truong Temple, the Ancient Citadel, and the Trung Hoa Temple, which share a common design and scale. There is a five-door gate in front.

Through the gate is a rectangular lake. In the middle behind the lake is the Thien Truong Temple. The Thien Truong Temple, also known as the Upper Temple, is located in the center of the Tran Temple historical site. The temple was built on the foundation of the Thái Miếu and Trùng Quang Palace of the Tran dynasty, which was previously the ancestral house of the Tran family. Trùng Quang Palace is where the Tran emperors lived and worked.

The architecture of Tran Temple today includes a front courtyard, middle corridor, main sanctuary, incense burning area, two rows of auxiliary houses, two rows of auxiliary houses with curved roofs, and two rows of east-west dance platforms. There are a total of nine pavilions with 31 bays. The temple frame is made of ironwood, with tiled roofs and brick floors. The front courtyard consists of 5 bays, 13 meters long, with 12 main columns and 12 auxiliary columns, all placed on a stone base shaped like a lotus leaf, originally the pedestal of the Trùng Quang Palace columns.

Inside are altars and tablets of officials who significantly contributed to the Tran dynasty. The middle corridor houses the tablets of the 14 Tran emperors, and in front of the entrance are three pedestals where the emperors are worshipped. The main sanctuary consists of 3 bays, worshiping the four founders of the Tran family, and the main concubines in the middle bay, the queen consorts in the left and right bays. Tran Temple is highly revered for prayers for prosperity and fortune. Every year, during the New Year, thousands of tourists visit to pay respects, offer incense, and pray for wealth and fortune. Especially on the 14th day of the lunar month, at dawn on the 15th day, the Tran Temple seal-opening ceremony takes place to honor the contributions of the 14 deities. After the ceremony, visitors will receive a seal to bring luck and prosperity to the people.

Address: Tran Thua, Loc Vuong, Nam Dinh City, Nam Dinh

Perfume Pagoda is a temple complex located in Huong Son commune, My Duc district, Hanoi. This is an extremely sacred and famous temple situated amidst picturesque landscapes, which attracts pilgrims and sightseers. During the first days of the new year, especially from the opening day of the Perfume Pagoda festival on the 6th day of the first lunar month until the end of the third lunar month, tens of thousands of visitors flock here, even reaching hundreds of thousands. Visitors come here not only to offer incense and pay homage to the deities and Buddhas, praying for luck, peace, and prosperity but also to explore beautiful landscapes such as Yen Stream, Trinh Temple, Thien Tru Pagoda, and Huong Tich Cave.

With the arrival of spring, apricot and plum blossoms adorn the mountains and forests of Huong Son, attracting thousands, even millions of Buddhists from all directions to attend the Perfume Pagoda festival. This sacred journey to the land of Buddha, where the Compassionate Bodhisattva manifests, is to offer prayers and heartfelt incense. The Perfume Pagoda festival is the largest, most unique, and longest spring festival in our country.

The festival opens on the sixth day of the first lunar month every year and lasts until nearly the end of the third lunar month. On the opening day, the Perfume Pagoda becomes more vibrant and bustling with dragon dances at Trinh Temple square, boat racing on Yen Stream... Throughout the festival, there is reverence and joy from the elderly, the enthusiasm of the youth, and visitors from all over the country and abroad.

Address: Huong Son, My Duc, Hanoi

Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen Monastery is situated on Yen Tu Mountain in Thuong Yen Cong commune, Uong Bi City, Quang Ninh Province. The Truc Lam Yen Tu complex is a renowned spiritual destination nationwide. Every year, it welcomes tens of thousands of visitors who come for sightseeing, Buddhist ceremonies, seeking inner peace and tranquility. Yen Tu Peak sits at an altitude of about 1068 meters above sea level. To reach the temple at the summit, one must ascend over 6000 stone steps and pass through bamboo and pine forests.

Today, to facilitate tourism, the management board has installed two cable car systems for faster and more convenient transportation. Overall, the architecture of the temples in Truc Lam Yen Tu adheres closely to Buddhist architectural standards, faithfully reconstructed to match the original design. The Two-story, eight-roof Tam Quan Gate stands imposingly atop the hill. Stepping through the gate, visitors enter the main courtyard, paved with red bricks. The temple roof is curved like the tip of a sword, reaching skyward.

Truc Lam Yen Tu is a vast scenic area with numerous attractions. Before ascending Yen Tu Mountain, visitors pass through Trinh Temple to rest and prepare for the journey ahead. Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen Monastery is a spacious hall where monks practice meditation and study Buddhist scriptures. It is considered a school for spiritual practitioners, where monks learn to read scriptures, Buddhist philosophy, and meditation techniques. Dong Pagoda is the tallest pagoda on Yen Tu, entirely cast in bronze. Conquering Dong Pagoda by foot is a remarkable feat. This place is profoundly spiritual, where people come to pray for prosperity, health, and peace.

Address: 12 Yen Tu, Nam Mau, Uong Bi, Quang Ninh

Co Loa Pagoda, also known as Bao Son or Bao Son Pagoda, is located in Co Loa commune, Dong Anh district, Hanoi. The pagoda is situated within the Co Loa historical site and is closely associated with the ancient Co Loa citadel legend. This pagoda is considered a sacred place that attracts visitors for sightseeing, offering incense, and especially, within its temple complex, the Am My Nuong is extremely sacred, making it an appealing destination for visitors to seek blessings.

Co Loa Pagoda is located in a square courtyard with ancient mango trees. The construction architecture follows the style of 'internal Cong and external Quoc' on a brick foundation. The front hall faces south, consisting of 5 compartments, 2 wings with wooden doors, pillars made of ironwood, tiled roofs, and the Chinese characters 'Bao Son Tu' on the ridge, with naturally curved gables decorated in a simple manner.

During the first days of January, especially on the 6th day, a festival takes place here, attracting a large number of visitors. The festival begins with a procession, followed by rituals and prayers for national prosperity, favorable weather, good luck in business, and sincere prayers. After the religious ceremonies, visitors join in lively festivities. This pagoda increasingly attracts a large number of visitors during the Lunar New Year, offering scenic beauty, historical exploration, and especially, prayers for personal and collective well-being.

Address: Co Loa, Dong Anh, Hanoi

Bai Dinh Pagoda is a temple complex covering 539 hectares, including a 27-hectare ancient Bai Dinh area, an 80-hectare new Bai Dinh area, and facilities such as a cultural park, Buddhist academy, Ham Thi Lake, roads, and parking lots. Bai Dinh Pagoda is a highly sacred temple, and every year on the first day of the lunar new year, the spring festival begins here, opening on the sixth day and running until the end of March.

With its beautiful landscape and sacred temples, this place has attracted many tourists, especially during the first days of the lunar new year when the temple festival takes place. Visitors come here during this time to participate in sacred rituals and activities such as sightseeing, listening to folk music, and exploring the ancient capital land.

The architecture of Bai Dinh Pagoda reflects the pure beauty of Vietnamese temple architecture. Whether it's classic brown wood, tiles, or serene green stones, Bai Dinh Pagoda stands out for its harmonious blend of colors with the tranquil natural hues of the ancient land of Hoa Lu, captivating every visitor. During the lunar new year, tourists from all over flock to Ninh Binh to set foot in this sacred land of Bai Dinh Pagoda. They come here to pray for peace and abundance while capturing memories of a spiritual yet serene journey!

Address: Gia Sinh, Gia Vien, Ninh Binh

Thac Bo Deity Temple is located in Thac Bo area amidst the Da River in Vay Nua commune, Da Bac district, Hoa Binh province. Thac Bo Deity Temple, also known as the Shrine of Little Girl Thac Bo, consists of the Trinh Temple (Chua) and the Chau Temple (Mr. Chau's temple). Although Thac Bo Temple is not as grandiose as many other places, it is famous for its sanctity. The Thac Bo Festival takes place from the 7th of January to the end of March in the lunar calendar. However, even from the lunar month of December, this place is crowded with people coming to make offerings.

The Thac Bo Deity often resides in the field. Usually, the Thac Deity often resides behind Chau De Tam, but the Thac Bo Deity often resides even more than Chau De Tam, and sometimes people do not pray to Chau De Tam but instead pray directly to the deity, confirming the Son Trang court in white color, then releasing fish during the grand opening ceremony. The deity residing in the field usually wears a white shirt, black pants, a green belt, with a silver sword on the side, and during the opening, the deity holds an oar in one hand and bait in the other, steering and playing on the Da River.

Address: Thung Nai, Cao Phong, Da Bac, Hoa Binh

Bao Ha Shrine is not a place of worship for Buddhist or Quan Am deities, here people honor a folk hero commonly known as Mr. Hoang Bay. Almost every business person knows about the Bao Ha Shrine (Mr. Hoang Bay Shrine) in Bao Ha, Lao Cai. Bao Ha Shrine is a historical site of national significance. Bao Ha Shrine at the foot of Forbidden Hill boasts a picturesque natural landscape 'above the shore, below the boat.' On the left bank is the swirling Hong River. On the right bank is a large lake, creating a beautiful and romantic scene for the shrine.

The Bao Ha Shrine was built at the end of the Le dynasty (reign of Canh Hung), dedicated to the renowned general Hoang Bay of the Nguyen family, who contributed to the protection and construction of the country at the Lao Cai border gate. The Bao Ha Shrine festival is held on the 7th day of the 7th lunar month every year (the death anniversary of General Hoang Bay), attracting a large number of visitors from both the region and beyond. Besides festival days, on special occasions like New Year's Day, visitors from all over the country still regularly gather here to light incense, commemorate, pray for peace, and wish for prosperity in their homes.

Address: Bao Ha, Bao Yen, Lao Cai

12. Bac Le Temple

If you seek a peaceful, harmonious, and happy new year, then head to Bac Le Temple, located in Tan Thanh commune, Huu Lung district, Lang Son province. The temple sits atop a hill, under the shade of centuries-old ancient trees. It is one of the most sacred temples in the North for seeking love and is a typical Mother Goddess temple in our country. Bac Le Temple is dedicated to Lady Thượng Ngàn, a goddess revered in the mountainous regions, bestowing blessings of crops and protecting the people of the highlands. The Bac Le Temple festival is usually held from the 18th to the 20th of September in the lunar calendar, including main rituals: The coronation ceremony, the main feast, the procession of the Mother... The prelude dance brings luck and peace to humanity.

Like any other Mother Goddess temple, Bac Le Temple worships the Community of the Four Palaces and the Deities in the four cosmic directions. Throughout the historical ups and downs, rain and shine, the temple has been renovated and embellished many times but still retains the beauty of ancient architecture and valuable artifacts. The solid wooden columns still maintain their original primitive features, adding warmth, sanctity, and intimacy to the temple.

For the locals, the Bac Le Temple festival is considered the biggest festival of the year for the community. After the grand ceremony, the locals will hold a grand banquet with traditional dishes after the solemn offering. From ancient times to the present, the festival has become an indispensable part and a cultural and religious feature of the people of Bac Le and even distant visitors.

Address: Bac Le, Huu Lung, Lang Son

13. Lang Giang Temple

Lang Giang Temple, also known as Linh Tu Lanh Giang, is located in Yen Lac village, Moc Nam commune, Duy Tien district. This temple worships the 18th Hung King and Princess Tien Dung. Next to Lang Giang Temple, by the riverbank, is Co Bo Thoai Phu Temple (part of the Vietnamese Mother Goddess Worship).

Lang Giang Temple is built with internal and external architectural designs, including 3 towers, 14 side rooms with guest houses, worship floors, and 4 sides surrounded by brick walls. Inside the temple, there are statues of Princess Tien Dung, dragon shrines, and statues of the 3 generals of the Hung King era elaborately carved in the style of the Le dynasty. The temple also proudly preserves two long dragon pedestals, an altar, and many horizontal lacquered boards, couplets, and incense. Every year, the temple holds two festivals, from the 2nd to the 5th of the 6th lunar month and the 20th of the 8th lunar month. The ceremonial rituals and the procession of saints attract thousands of visitors who come to observe and pay their respects.

In addition to the ritual part, there is also a festival with many exciting activities such as: Folk singing performance (Van singing) reenacting the legend of the Holy figure at Lang Giang Temple; dragon dance, lion dance, unicorn dance, martial arts, cockfighting, stick fighting, human chess, shrimp catching, rice blowing competition on carrying poles, simulated battles, Van singing, rice straw floating competition on the Hong River... On November 5th, 1996, the temple was classified as a national historical and cultural relic by the Ministry of Culture, Information, and Tourism (now the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism).

Address: Yen Lac, Duy Tien, Ha Nam

14. Tran Quoc Pagoda

Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the most sacred pagodas in the North, so it's bustling during the Lunar New Year. Situated on a small island at the southern end of West Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda used to be a place where kings came to admire the scenery and make offerings on full moon days and festivals. Today, it's a busy destination for tourists and Buddhists who come to pray for blessings for their families, especially during the spring festival.

Originally named Khai Quoc Pagoda, it was built in 541 during the time of the pre-Ly dynasty. Back then, the pagoda was near the Red River bank. However, due to riverbank erosion in 1615 (under the reign of King Le Trung Hung), the pagoda was relocated to the inner dike of Yen Phu, in the Kim Nguu area. Later, in the 17th century, during the Trinh Lords' rule, the Co Ngua dike (now Thanh Nien street) was built to connect with Kim Nguu island. The pagoda was then renamed Tran Quoc Pagoda during the reign of King Le Hy Tong (1681 - 1705) with the hope that it would help people ward off natural disasters and bring peace to the nation. And that name has been used until today.

The pagoda belongs to the Northern Buddhist sect with a strict structure and architecture following the principles of Buddhism, consisting of three main sections: Front hall, incense burning house, and Upper sanctuary connected in the shape of the word 'Cong.' The Front hall faces West, with a Tam bao house behind. Two corridors run along both sides of the incense burning house and Upper sanctuary. Behind the Upper sanctuary is the bell tower situated on the main aisle with a triple-roof architecture. The ancestral house is on the left of the Upper sanctuary, and on the right is the stele house which still preserves 14 steles of great historical and cultural value. Today, the pagoda still houses many valuable Buddha and Bodhisattva statues, mainly in the Upper sanctuary.

Among them, the most prominent is the wooden statue of Shakyamuni Buddha attaining Nirvana, coated with gold leaf, considered the most beautiful Nirvana statue in Vietnam. Despite the ups and downs of time, Tran Quoc Pagoda still stands majestic and tranquil amidst the hustle and bustle of Hanoi. Every year, the pagoda attracts a large number of Buddhists and tourists from all over the world to offer incense, pray, and admire its beauty.

Address: 46 Thanh Nien, Truc Bach, Tay Ho, Hanoi

15. Hung Temple

The historical site of Hung Temple in Co Tich village, Hy Cuong commune, Viet Tri city, Phu Tho province, is the place of worship for the Hung Kings who founded the nation. The temples and pagodas within the special national cultural historical relic complex of Hung Temple are sacred and ancient architectural ensembles. Among them, the Upper Temple located on Nghia Linh mountain top is where many valuable historical traces are inscribed. From the Great Gate to the Upper Temple, one has to climb nearly 500 stone steps, yet tourists cannot miss it because of its majestic landscape and spiritual convergence of mountains and rivers. In the deep consciousness of every Vietnamese, Hung Temple and Hung Kings' Commemoration Day have become symbols of cultural and spiritual values, nurtured through generations; they have become focal points for the spirit of national unity and solidarity.

During Tet Nguyen Dan, many tourists choose to visit Hung Temple to pay respects and remember the origins of the nation. Hung Temple Festival, also known as Hung Kings' Commemoration Day, is a grand national festival in Vietnam, to commemorate and express gratitude for the founding of the nation by the Hung Kings.

The festival takes place on the 10th day of the third lunar month, but in fact, the festival starts weeks before with customs such as beating bronze drums of the Muong ethnic group, pilgrimages to commemorate the Hung Kings, and culminates on the 10th day of the third lunar month with the procession and offering of incense at the Upper Temple. This is the cradle of the Vietnamese people, where the Hung Kings established the nation. People visit temples not only to pray for luck and prosperity but also to wander, leaving behind the hustle and bustle of life to enjoy the tranquility and sacredness in the spring weather.

Address: Lac Hong, Hy Cuong, Viet Tri City, Phu Tho

16. Duyen Ninh Pagoda

Duyen Ninh Pagoda, also known as Thu Pagoda, is located in the special conservation area of the Ancient Capital of Hoa Lu, considered one of the famous prayer pagodas in Vietnam. Situated 4km from Am Tien Cave along Trang An Boulevard towards Bai Dinh Pagoda, very close to the temple of King Dinh Tien Hoang and between two tourist spots, Bai Dinh Pagoda and the Trang An eco-tourism area.

Duyen Ninh Pagoda is an ancient pagoda, built in the 10th century under the reign of King Dinh Tien Hoang. Duyen Ninh Pagoda, along with Kim Ngan Pagoda, is located in the west of the ancient capital. Like Nhat Tru Pagoda, Duyen Ninh Pagoda is a place of worship for Buddha and monks of the 10th century such as Phap Thuan, Khuong Viet, and Van Hanh. Duyen Ninh Pagoda is very close to the temple of King Dinh Tien Hoang. The pagoda faces northeast, consisting of the main hall, ancestral house, reception hall, dining hall, tower, etc.

According to historical records, Duyen Ninh Pagoda was a place where princesses of the Dinh - Le period often visited. Here, Princess Le Thi Phat Ngan and general Ly Cong Uan pledged to give birth to Ly Phat Ma (later King Ly Thai Tong) in the year 1000. Later, when King Ly Thai Tong returned here to suppress the rebellion of Khai Quoc Vuong, he renamed the temple Duyen Ninh Pagoda.

In her later years, Queen Phat Ngan returned here to practice and take care of the tomb of her father-in-law, Emperor Le Dai Hanh. Here, the queen arranged for many couples to meet, and since then, Duyen Ninh has become the most sacred pagoda in the ancient capital of Hoa Lu. Duyen Ninh Pagoda is one of the most sacred prayer pagodas in Vietnam. Visitors and Buddhists can not only enjoy the beautiful scenery of nature but also pray for a year full of blessings.

Address: Trang An, Truong Yen, Hoa Lu, Ninh Binh

17. Quan Thanh Temple

Quán Thánh Temple is one of the 'Four Sacred Temples' of ancient Thang Long. Today, Quán Thánh Temple is one of the impressive spiritual tourist attractions for visitors. According to its history, Quán Thánh Temple is dedicated to Huyen Thien Tran Vu, one of the four guardian spirits protecting the ancient Thang Long Citadel's four gates.

Built during the Ly dynasty, Quán Thánh Temple has undergone several renovations. It is one of the few historical relics that still bear the marks of Daoism - a religion that was once very popular in our country. The temple has two layers, with a high outer layer and a vestibule. Both sides have inscriptions of poems by King Thieu Tri engraved on them. Inside the sanctuary, the most prominent feature is the black bronze statue of Huyen Thien Tran Vu.

With exquisite and skillful carvings, the statue is considered a masterpiece reflecting the bronze casting technique and the mastery of sculpture art of our ancestors hundreds of years ago. Quán Thánh Temple is a venue for the famous cultural and religious activities of our people from ancient times to the present. It preserves artistic and cultural values of a thousand years. Quán Thánh Temple, located near West Lake, harmonizes with the bells of Tran Vu Temple to create a romantic and poetic scenery, imbued with the ancient imprints of a thousand-year-old land of culture.

During the New Year, when visiting temples and praying for luck in Hanoi, you cannot miss Quán Thánh Temple, a spiritual destination attracting many pilgrims at the beginning of the new year. The temple is not only a valuable historical and architectural structure but also a venue for famous sacred cultural activities of Hanoi people from ancient times to the present.

Address: Thanh Nien, Quan Thanh, Ba Dinh, Hanoi

18. Trúc Lâm Tây Thiên Zen Monastery (Tây Thiên Pagoda)

The historical and scenic area of Tây Thiên, located in Đại Đình commune, Tam Đảo district, Vĩnh Phúc province, is considered one of the cradles of Vietnamese Buddhism and the place of worship for the national mother figure, Quốc Mẫu Tây Thiên - the wife of Hùng Chiêu Vương, who contributed to the king's efforts in defending the nation, expanding its territory, and teaching people to cultivate rice and preserve the nation's flame in the dawn of the nation's history.

The Tây Thiên historical complex includes various temples and pagodas such as the Trình Temple, Thỏng Temple, Thiên Ân Pagoda, Cậu Temple, Cô Bé Temple, Tịnh Monastery, ancient Phù Nghì Pagoda, Cô Chín Temple, Upper Temple, and Upper Pagoda. Here, the worship of the Mother Goddess and Buddhism blend together, creating a serene and sacred atmosphere rarely found elsewhere. Trúc Lâm Tây Thiên Zen Monastery features the shrine of Quốc Mẫu Tây Thiên, Lăng Thị Tiêu - the woman who married Hùng Chiêu Vương after assisting the king in battles against invaders. To commemorate the contributions of Quốc Mẫu Tây Thiên, the Tây Thiên festival lasts for 3 days from the 15th to the 17th of the 2nd lunar month.

Nestled in the land of Buddhism, Trúc Lâm Tây Thiên Zen Monastery and Trúc Lâm Am Tâm Zen Monastery bloom like beautiful flowers amidst the vast Tam Đảo mountains. Not far from the Thỏng Temple, Đại Bảo Tháp Tây Thiên is a masterpiece of Kim Cương Buddhist architecture, contributing to the honor of Tây Thiên's spiritual and cultural values as well as Vietnamese Buddhism. On December 23, 2015, the Tây Thiên historical and scenic area was recognized as a Special National Monument by the State.

Visitors to Tây Thiên will hear endless stories of the Tây Thiên mountains and forests, about the majestic Buddhist religion and the sacred national mother. Pilgrims to Tây Thiên can hike or take the cable car to conquer the path from the foot of the mountain to the Upper Temple. Hiking is a wonderful experience for those who enjoy immersing themselves in nature and exploring religious and cultural landmarks along the way. Taking the cable car offers a unique and fascinating perspective from above.

Address: Đại Đình, Tam Đảo, Vĩnh Phúc

19. Chử Đồng Tử Temple

Chử Đồng Tử Temple in Hưng Yên is renowned as one of the most famous spiritual tourist attractions in Phố Hiến. Visiting here, tourists not only learn more about the immortal love of Chử Đồng Tử but also rediscover inner peace. According to historical accounts, Chử Đồng Tử Temple is associated with a romantic love story between the daughter of King Hùng 18 and a poor boy named Chử. Until today, this remains a poignant and intense legend in the treasury of Vietnamese literature.

At Chử Đồng Tử Temple, tourists can admire the peaceful scenery of the Northern countryside. There are ferry boats crossing the river, lush green bamboo groves, stretches of white sandbanks, and sunlight filtering through the betel nut leaves. Stepping into the realm of Đa Hòa Temple, you will feel like rediscovering yourself, letting go of all worries. Moreover, unique festivals are often held at these two temples annually.

Immersing yourself in the lively atmosphere of the festivals with the locals will bring unforgettable cultural experiences to tourists.

People come here not only to offer incense in memory of one of the 'Four Immortals' of Vietnam and the two beautiful princesses Tiên Dung and Tây Sa but also to seek genuine love and a peaceful family life.

Address: Tứ Dân, Khoái Châu, Hưng Yên

20. Keo Pagoda

Keo Pagoda was initiated in Hanh Dung Nghia hamlet, Duy Nhat commune, Vu Thu district on a flat, spacious, airy land, with the Hong River in front carrying fertile alluvium, nurturing abundant crops, bustling inhabitants, prosperous villages, and charming landscapes.

Spanning nearly 400 years, enduring countless historical vicissitudes, wars, invaders, natural disasters, and undergoing multiple renovations, enhancements, Keo Pagoda still retains its original unique architectural features from the time of Le Trung Hung in the 17th century, radiating dignified solemnity, alongside the development of Buddhism and the Vietnamese nation. With a total of 16 towers, 126 compartments on an area of 5.8 hectares, the entire complex resembles a resplendent lotus where the Buddha sits in meditation, embodying lofty ideals: immaculateness, purity, patience, tolerance, integrity, diligence, non-attachment, and enlightenment.

Keo Pagoda is not only a Special National Monument, a shining gem of architectural art, the soul and pride of Thai Binh homeland, but also one of the most sacred spiritual tourism destinations in the North, with Keo Pagoda Festival held regularly every year, in spring on the 4th day of the Lunar New Year, and in autumn on the 13th, 14th, and 15th days of the 9th lunar month.

Address: Duy Nhat, Vu Thu, Thai Binh

But Thap Pagoda sits on a land strip stretching over 10,000m2, along the Duong River in Bac Ninh province. This peaceful land exudes a strange tranquility, a deep admiration for its romantic beauty, blending harmoniously with nature, earth, and sky. The pagoda has existed for hundreds of years and is therefore considered one of the historical witnesses to the ups and downs that have passed through generations. There is no accurate documentation of the temple's formation time. It is only known that in the book Vietnamese Art by a French researcher written in 1944, there is a recount of the journey to the hidden village temple of the former Lý Đạo Tái. This former official existed in the 13th, 14th centuries, so historians often take it as a milestone for the birth of this temple.

The temple uses precious wood materials with stone parts for sturdy surrounding pedestals. Every decorative pattern is meticulously detailed, especially in the Upper Hall area with a balustrade made of blue agate stone and many paintings and carvings of intricate medieval patterns, captivating the eyes. On the Thich Thien Am tower, there are 12 paintings, and along the base of the Bao Nghiem tower, there are 13 more. In essence, the themes of the paintings are different, but the consistent highlight has created a special appeal.

But Thap Pagoda stands out in a vast natural landscape, with fields stretching along the riverbank. The temple faces south, according to Buddhism, it is the direction of wisdom and intelligence, according to feng shui, it is the direction of stability and settlement. Building the temple facing the best direction also brings many good things to both Buddhists and passers-by. This place is famous as the sacred temple of Kinh Bac land, so when you have the opportunity to visit here, don't forget to visit this temple!

Address: Dinh To, Thuan Thanh, Bac Ninh

Mau Dong Dang Temple is a place of worship for Buddha and the Supreme Mother, deeply imbued with the cultural identity of the Lang Son ethnic groups. It is also one of the famous shrines in the Mother Goddess worship of the Vietnamese people. Every spring, this place becomes a sacred spiritual destination for travelers on their journey to the border town of Lang.

Mau Dong Dang Temple has a fairly spacious courtyard, located right at the foot of the mountain. The triple gate of the temple is built quite grandly, with arched doors, a main door, and two side doors, adorned with distinctive patterns and motifs. On the columns of the triple gate, there are inscribed couplets in Chinese characters. Especially, on the tops of the triple gate, there are bronze bells and gongs. The graceful shapes of dragons and phoenixes, symmetrical to each other, create a sacred ancient appearance for the temple.

On festival days, New Year, full moon days, or the first day of the month, this place becomes bustling with stalls selling ceremonial items, brightly colored gold, and numerous visitors from afar coming to admire the scenery, light candles for peace, health for themselves and their families, prosperity in business, and much wealth... Every year, on the 10th day of the first lunar month, the Dong Dang Temple hosts the Spring Festival of the Lang Son ethnic groups. Here, visitors not only immerse themselves in the spiritual culture but also enjoy folk games such as lion dances, ethnic martial arts, gymnastics, and sports competitions... However, on regular days, the temple still attracts many people who come here to pray for the protection of the sacred deities.

Address: Dong Dang Town, Cao Loc, Lang Son

Côn Sơn - Kiếp Bạc Historical Site located in Chi Linh, Hai Duong, is one of 62 nationally significant special monuments of Vietnam. This is where the historical relics related to the glorious victories of the Tran dynasty against the mighty Mongol invaders in the 13th century are preserved. It also commemorates the 10-year heroic struggle of the Lam Son righteous army against the Ming invaders. Besides, it preserves the noble lineage and careers of the heroes.

This place bears the marks of heroic achievements and the glorious history of the Vietnamese people. The greatest talents of the nation are also honored here. According to tradition, this place is known as the most sacred place in the country. 'Whoever has a sincere heart will receive a response.' According to folk beliefs, to pray for significant matters, for nobility and titles, for promotion, or for intelligence, people press the seal of 'Tran Hung Dao King' or the seal of 'Great King of National Law.' To pray for children, abundant wealth, and the development of goodness, they press the seal of 'Ten Thousand Drugs Spirit Talisman.' To ward off evil spirits, illnesses, and enemies, they press the seal of 'Sword of Angelic Genies Spirit Talisman.'

Every year, the Côn Sơn - Kiếp Bạc Historical Site receives thousands of visitors from all over. They come not only to admire the scenery but also to pray for peace, prosperity, success, and fortune for their families and children. This place is especially sacred during the seal requesting ceremony as people believe that all requests made with sincerity will be fulfilled.

Address: Hung Dao, Chi Linh, Hai Duong

Dau Pagoda is a sacred temple dedicated to Lady Phap Van, who is considered the eldest sister among the four sisters in the Four Palaces temple system. Perhaps that's why the temple is also known as Sister Pagoda, Co Chau Tu, Dien Ung Tu, and in the Ly dynasty, it was called Thien Dinh Tu.

Dau Pagoda in Bac Ninh was built in the early Christian era. The first Indian monks came here. In the late 6th century, the Chinese monk Tien Ngo Dac Luu Chi came to this temple and established a Zen sect in Vietnam. Dau Pagoda in Bac Ninh was started in 187 and completed in 226, making it the oldest temple associated with the history and culture of Vietnam Buddhism. It was classified as a historical relic by the state on April 28, 1962, and is a famous Buddhist pilgrimage site visited by many people annually. Despite the historical upheavals, the citadel, the long temple, and the palace of the Luy Lau center were abandoned.

But Dau Pagoda with its towering Hoa Phong tower and hundreds of ancient temple halls still exist over time. History has affirmed the position of Dau Pagoda in the cultural and spiritual life of the people. Dau Pagoda is the most famous and sacred cultural relic of the ancient capital. The pagoda has been recognized by the Ministry of Culture as a National Historical and Cultural Monument.

Address: Lac Long Quan, Thanh Khuong, Thuan Thanh, Bac Ninh