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Located on Ngoc Island in the heart of Hoan Kiem Lake, the architectural complex of Ngoc Son Temple not only boasts unique architecture but also is a renowned spiritual and cultural symbol of Hanoi. Here is an introduction along with detailed instructions for visiting Ngoc Son Temple that Vntrip.vn shares with you.
Introduction to Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple is located on Ngoc Island right in the heart of Hoan Kiem Lake. The temple was built in the 19th century. Originally, it was a shrine to worship the God of Law to suppress evils. Later, it was converted into a Buddhist temple, and eventually, it was renovated into the temple as it is today.
Behold the stunning Ngo Son Temple surrounded by tranquil waters and lush greenery, a testament to Vietnam's rich cultural heritage. Marvel at its exquisite architecture, harmoniously blending religious influences spanning millennia.
Constructed in the shape of a Three-Part Pavilion, Ngo Son Temple is dedicated to the worship of literary deity Van Xuong and revered general Tran Hung Dao. It also honors Buddha Amitabha, La Dong Tan, and Quan Van Truong, embodying Vietnam's ethos of religious unity and harmony.
Explore the architectural masterpiece that is Ngo Son Temple, a symbol of spiritual convergence amidst the bustling heart of Hanoi. Admire the seamless integration of diverse religious beliefs, evident not only in its worship but also in its architectural elements, couplets, ornamental motifs, and decorative items.
Located in central Hanoi, reaching Ngo Son Temple is a breeze. For those opting for public transportation, several bus routes are available:
- Route 08: Departing from Long Bien Pier.
- Route 14: Departing from Co Nhue.
- Route 31: Departing from Bach Khoa University.
- Route 36: Departing from Long Bien Transfer Point.
For those on motorbikes, there are plenty of options for getting around, depending on your current location. Just remember the city's main arteries and you'll get there. Apps like Google Maps are increasingly popular for convenient navigation. Alternatively, if you prefer a simpler option, taxis are readily available, allowing you to be proactive without worrying about directions.
On weekends, Hanoi city has initiated plans to pedestrianize the area around Ngo Son Temple, prohibiting all vehicles. Therefore, if you plan to visit the temple on weekends, please consider alternative transportation.
Ticket Prices for Ngo Son Temple
To visit Ngoc Son Temple, you need to purchase tickets. The admission fee is 30,000 VND per adult, and children enter for free.
What's Inside Ngoc Son Temple?
Right outside the entrance of Ngoc Son Temple, you'll be captivated by the sight of the Pen Tower. Built atop Ngoc Boi Mountain, formerly known as Doc Ton Mountain, in 1865, according to the vision of Confucian scholar Nguyen Van Sieu. The Pen Tower is inscribed with the words 'Ta Thanh Thien,' meaning 'Writing on the Blue Sky.'
Pen Tower outside Ngoc Son Temple (photo collection)
After purchasing tickets, you'll pass over The Huc Bridge to enter the temple grounds. The bridge, characterized by its red hue and large pillars, is named The Huc, meaning 'Place to receive the early morning sunlight' or 'Condensing radiance.'
The Huc Bridge (photo collection)
Inside, you'll explore the two main temple areas. These sanctuaries are dedicated to two deities: Van Xuong De Quan and the venerable Tran Hung Dao. Both temples exhibit the distinctive architectural style of Northern Vietnamese pagodas. Inside these temples are two prominent statues: a statue of Tran Hung Dao placed in the rear sanctum on a pedestal over 1 meter high, and a statue of Van Xuong De Quan holding a feathered pen, exuding an air of tranquility and elegance.
Statue of Van Xuong De Quan inside Ngoc Son Temple (photo collection)
Adjacent to the temple dedicated to the two deities is a remarkable site that leaves tourists in awe: the area where the glass case containing the preserved body of the Hoan Kiem turtle is kept. The solemn image of the venerable turtle with its peculiarly large size arouses curiosity in visitors.
The combination of Ngoc Son Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake forms a harmonious architectural ensemble, evoking a sense of ancient beauty and tranquility, bridging humanity and nature. These landmarks serve as poignant reminders of the nation's history, awakening pride, patriotism, spirituality, and the consciousness of every Vietnamese citizen in the face of national existence.
