Buzz
CAY THI TEMPLE
Photo by Doan Ngoc Anh
Cay Thi Temple (Di Da Monastery) is situated in Che Trinh hamlet, Thanh Tam commune, Thanh Liem district, Ha Nam province, approximately 70km from Hanoi.
According to Venerable Thich Hue Hanh, a standing member of the Professional Buddhist Committee of the Central, currently serving as the abbot, the temple is named Cay Thi because next to the ancient temple stands a cay thi tree, which has been there for hundreds of years.
Upon stepping into this area, one feels as if entering a celestial paradise with an unusual tranquility. Visitors will be surprised by the white pebble-paved courtyard leading to the temple, surrounded by lush green hills and the green hues of Japanese grass interspersed with pine trees.
Photo by Doan Ngoc Anh
With its unique architectural blend of Eastern cultures, coupled with the fresh, cool air, the fragrance of the thi tree, the chirping of birds, and the tranquil atmosphere, people can shed their daily fatigue and worries.
Not only a sacred place of worship, Cay Thi Temple is also a spiritual hub for the local people, where they experience life and are guided towards the fundamental values of Buddhism, bringing peace and comfort to their souls.
Photo by Doan Ngoc Anh
DIA TANG PHI LAI PAGODA
The temple is just about 70km from Hanoi, located in Ninh Trung hamlet, Liem Son commune, Thanh Liem district, Ha Nam province. Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda sits on a golden throne, backed by a mountain, with two blue dragons flanking it. In terms of scale, the pagoda consists of Three Treasures, ancestral temple, place of worship for revered figures, residences, lecture halls, guesthouses, and accommodation for Buddhists. The pagoda was built in the 10th century, originally comprising approximately 120 chambers. Many kings and emperors have visited this place. After centuries of neglect and decay, the pagoda was restored in 2015 under the leadership of Venerable Thich Minh Quang and was renamed Dia Tang Phi Lai Pagoda.
Upon arriving here, I was pleasantly surprised by the expansive and tranquil grounds of this temple. The terracotta tiles of the temple reflect the distinctive Cham Pa architecture. A notable feature is the layers of white pebbles, upon which lies a cool tile path. Twelve circles are drawn on the pebble surface, symbolizing the 12 human destinies. These white pebbles give me a sense of purity and cleanliness, every step feeling like gliding gently on water. The balance and harmony with nature are remarkable aspects of the architecture of Dia Tang Phi Lai temple.
Nôm Pagoda
Nôm Pagoda, located in the heritage complex of Nôm village, Dai Dong commune, Van Lam district, Hung Yen province, is a renowned temple of the Northern region, still preserving many ancient features.
Photo: Collected
Legend has it that because the temple was built amidst towering pine trees, it is also known as Ancient Pine Temple. The ancient temple hides beneath the tree canopy with architecture in the Dinh style, signifying its majestic and steadfast presence.
Photo: Collected
The triple gate of Nôm Pagoda is regarded as one of the most beautiful in Southeast Asia. Made of dark wood, with red fish scale roofs, characteristic of ancient temples in the Northeast region. The gate is designed in two-tiered eight-roof style, with the upper roof adorned with delicate and exquisite floral carvings. Visitors can ascend the wooden staircase on both sides to the upper level to admire the entire temple view.
Photo: Knowledge Newspaper
Vietnam is home to numerous temples, but there's only one with the unique name of Nom Pagoda. It holds a significant place in the rich history of the ancient Nom village in Hung Yen province.
KEO TEMPLE
Located in Duy Nhat commune, Vu Thu district, Thai Binh province, Keo Temple is a cultural and religious site open for visitors throughout the year. Special occasions like Buddha's Birthday or the Vu Lan Festival see a surge of activities like releasing animals, fish, and participating in teachings.
When talking about Keo Temple Thai Binh, its distinctively pure Vietnamese architecture cannot be overlooked. Spanning over 58,000 square meters with 157 chambers and 21 structures, it boasts a fusion of domestic and foreign architectural styles. Notably, the interior courtyard features intricate dragon carvings. Beyond lies the Buddha area, comprising the Buddha Hall, the incense offering hall, and the Ong Ho Temple.
Every spring and autumn, the Keo Temple Festival is celebrated by Buddhist devotees to commemorate significant milestones in the life of the National Teacher Duong Khong Lo. This festival features various captivating traditional games and has been recognized as an intangible cultural heritage since 2017. During the festival, Keo Temple in Thai Binh Province becomes bustling with visitors from all directions, eager to explore and understand its culture.
