When starting a tour to explore the capital Hanoi, one of the destinations that international visitors cannot miss is Tran Quoc Pagoda. Located peacefully next to West Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda is not only an iconic religious structure, but also the oldest pagoda in the capital with more than 1,500 years of history. Coming here, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in the sacred space, explore the unique architectural beauty and experience the profound spiritual cultural values of Vietnam. Tran Quoc Pagoda is the ideal destination to explore the long-standing tradition in the heart of modern Hanoi.
Introduction to Tran Quoc Pagoda Vietnam
Tran Quoc Pagoda Vietnam
Hanoi Tran Quoc Pagoda is one of the oldest pagodas in Hanoi, with a history of more than 1,500 years. Located on a small peninsula in West Lake, Yen Phu Ward, Tay Ho District, the pagoda is located at the end of Thanh Nien Street, a prime location that attracts domestic and foreign tourists to visit.
Previously, the pagoda was named Khai Quoc and was considered an important Buddhist center of Thang Long citadel, especially during the Ly and Tran dynasties when Buddhism reached its peak in Vietnam. The harmony between the peaceful space, the majestic natural landscape of West Lake and the unique architecture of the pagoda has created a sacred, quiet space, bringing a sense of peace to everyone who visits.
In addition to its religious and historical value, Tran Quoc Pagoda is also very famous in the world. In 2016, the British newspaper Daily Mail voted Tran Quoc Pagoda into the list of 16 most beautiful pagodas in the world. Wanderlust magazine also ranked the pagoda at number 3 in the list of 10 beautiful and harmonious pagodas with nature. In addition, National Geographic honored Tran Quoc Pagoda as one of the pagodas with the most impressive architecture in the world. Tran Quoc Pagoda is not only a place to preserve the quintessence of Vietnamese Buddhist culture, but also a destination not to be missed for those who love to explore the harmony between culture and nature.
Who is worshiped at Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi?
Worshiping altar at Tran Quoc Pagoda
Tran Quoc Pagoda follows the Northern Buddhist sect. This sect is famous for worshiping Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, imbued with the spirit of compassion and salvation from suffering.
Tran Quoc Pagoda worships Buddha Shakyamuni, the founder of Buddhism and a symbol of enlightenment and wisdom. Buddha Shakyamuni is honored as the one who leads sentient beings to the path of liberation from reincarnation and suffering. In addition, the pagoda also worships Buddha Amitabha, the Buddha famous for the Western Paradise.
In addition to Buddhas, Tran Quoc Pagoda also worships Buddha Quan Am, a symbol of compassion and salvation of sentient beings. Buddha Quan Am is considered a Bodhisattva with great compassion, always listening and helping those who encounter misfortune and suffering in life.
In addition to worshiping Buddhas and Bodhisattvas, Tran Quoc Pagoda also worships other historical figures and gods such as Quan Vu, a famous general of the Three Kingdoms period with loyalty and bravery. The temple also worships Quan Binh (adopted son of Quan Vu) and Chu Thuong, Duc Ong.
Learn the history of Tran Quoc Pagoda
History of Tran Quoc Pagoda
Tran Quoc Pagoda has a long history spanning over 15 centuries. Built in the 6th century under the reign of King Ly Nam De, the pagoda is a historical witness through many dynasties and changes in Vietnam.
When it was first built, the pagoda was located in Yen Phu village and was named Khai Quoc Pagoda, a name associated with the meaning of opening the country, affirming the important role of the pagoda in the cultural and religious life of that period.
In 1615, the pagoda was moved to its current location on a small peninsula in West Lake. Later, under the reign of King Le Hy Tong, the pagoda was officially named Tran Quoc Pagoda, demonstrating the pagoda's role as a "screen" to protect the country. During the Nguyen Dynasty, the pagoda was temporarily renamed Tran Bac Pagoda, but the name Tran Quoc was later kept and remains to this day.
As a major Buddhist center of the ancient Thang Long citadel, Tran Quoc Pagoda has always received special attention from feudal dynasties. Lord Trinh Trang repaired the three-door gate and built a corridor for the pagoda, while King Minh Mang expanded the scale of the pagoda. King Trieu Thi also made significant contributions when renovating the pagoda, building more statues and casting bells.
Notably in 2010, Tran Quoc Pagoda was renovated to celebrate the 1000th anniversary of Thang Long - Hanoi and prepare for the 6th World Buddhist Summit held in Vietnam, an event marking the important role of the pagoda in the international Buddhist community.
Throughout history, Tran Quoc Pagoda has been a destination for many kings and world leaders. From King Ly Nhan Tong, Lord Trinh Trang, King Minh Mang, to modern leaders such as Indian President Rajendra Prasad and Russian President Dmitry Medvedev, all came to admire the serene and majestic beauty of this pagoda.
Information on opening hours and ticket prices of Tran Quoc Pagoda
To facilitate everyone to visit and worship, the pagoda has specific opening hours as follows:
- Tran Quoc Pagoda opening hours: Tran Quoc Pagoda operates from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. every day, including weekdays. However, on special days such as the 1st and 15th of the lunar month, opening hours will be extended from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. to serve the pilgrimage and Buddha worship needs of a large number of Buddhists and tourists.
- Tran Quoc Pagoda entrance fee: Tran Quoc Pagoda is completely free for all visitors, including those who come to visit or make a pilgrimage.
Explore the architecture and landscape of Tran Quoc Pagoda
Tran Quoc Pagoda stands out with its unique architecture, bearing the traditional Buddhist imprint of Vietnam. Built in the traditional pagoda style, the architecture of the pagoda is a subtle combination of art and spirituality, creating a peaceful and solemn space.
Tran Quoc Pagoda consists of three main areas: the Front Hall, the Incense Burning House, and the Upper Hall. These three areas are connected together, forming a whole in the shape of the letter "Cong" - a familiar design style in Vietnamese pagoda architecture. The connection between these areas creates a harmonious layout, expressing the meaning of the connection between different aspects of Buddhism and spiritual life.
Lotus Stupa
One of the most prominent highlights of the pagoda is the Luc Do Dai Sen Tower - a soaring 11-storey tower. The Lien Hoa Tower represents the pure lotus flower, an important symbol in Buddhism. Each floor of the tower has 6 arched windows, and in each window is a statue of Amitabha Buddha. The sophistication in every detail makes the Lien Hoa Tower a unique architectural symbol of Tran Quoc Pagoda.
The front hall is the area where many precious Buddha statues are placed, including the statue of Buddha Sakyamuni entering Nirvana - a sculpture of high spiritual and artistic value, expressing respect and deep belief in Buddhism.
The Upper Hall area is a place of worship and preservation of valuable historical documents. There are 14 steles engraved with poems of the top scholars and doctors of ancient times, demonstrating the connection between culture, education and religion in Vietnamese history. These steles are evidence of the past and valuable research documents for future generations. The landscape of Tran Quoc Pagoda is in harmony with nature, creating a peaceful, quiet space in the heart of Hanoi. Every architectural detail of the pagoda has a profound meaning, combined with the natural scenery to bring visitors a perfect experience when visiting here.
The importance of Tran Quoc Pagoda Vietnam to the people of the capital
Tran Quoc Pagoda holds great spiritual value for the people of the capital, and is a symbol of the longevity and development of Buddhism in Vietnam.
Be a sacred Buddhist site
Be a sacred Buddhist site
First of all, Tran Quoc Pagoda is a sacred Buddhist site where visitors and locals can experience and learn about Vietnamese Buddhist culture. Traditional Buddhist rituals are still performed regularly at the pagoda, attracting Buddhists and those interested in religion and culture. With a peaceful and solemn space, the pagoda brings people a sense of peace, and is a place where they come to pray for luck and blessings. In particular, on major holidays such as Lunar New Year, Vu Lan festival or the full moon and first day of the lunar month, Tran Quoc Pagoda welcomes thousands of people to offer incense and worship Buddha, contributing to maintaining the beauty of traditional cultural beliefs of the Vietnamese people.
Symbol of the development of Buddhism
In addition, Tran Quoc Pagoda is also a symbol of the sustainable development of Buddhism in Vietnam. Over the past 1,500 years of existence, the pagoda has witnessed the development of Buddhism from the Ly and Tran dynasties to the present. As the Buddhist center of the ancient Thang Long citadel, Tran Quoc Pagoda is a place for practicing and spreading the quintessence of Buddhism to the community.
The fact that the pagoda has been preserved and restored through many feudal periods to the present day is a testament to the longevity of Buddhism in the lives of the Vietnamese people. In addition, Tran Quoc Pagoda is also important in terms of culture and history. The pagoda is a symbol of traditional Vietnamese culture, reflecting the connection between Buddhism and the daily life of the people.
Read more: Hanoi Opera House: A city's architectural masterpiece
Directions to Tran Quoc Pagoda
To get to the temple, you can choose from many different means of transportation, depending on your needs and preferences. Below are popular ways of transportation to help you have the most convenient journey.
Travel by motorbike
If you like to be proactive and flexible, motorbikes are the ideal means of transport. From the city center, it only takes about 20 minutes to reach Tran Quoc Pagoda. Choosing a motorbike allows you to freely explore other destinations on your journey. Visitors can easily rent motorbikes at rental locations in Hanoi at affordable prices, helping you to move comfortably without depending on public transport routes.
Travel by bus
If you want to save money and ensure safety, the bus is a reasonable choice. Bus route 50 has a stop near Tran Quoc Pagoda, very convenient for you. You will not have to worry about finding a parking space or traffic jams during rush hours when taking the bus.
Travel by taxi or motorbike taxi
If you want to be faster and more comfortable, taxis and motorbike taxis are the perfect choice. These types of services are very popular in Hanoi and are available on most routes in the city. You can easily book a car through apps like Grab, Be or hail a taxi directly on the street.
Read more: Hanoi West Lake: A prominent place in the capital that visitors should not miss
Notes when visiting Tran Quoc Pagoda
Notes when visiting Tran Quoc Pagoda
When visiting the temple, visitors need to keep in mind a few important things to have a complete experience and show respect for the sacred space here.
Should go early morning or late afternoon
The best time to visit Tran Quoc Pagoda is early in the morning or late in the afternoon. At that time, the cool, pleasant air will help you enjoy the peaceful beauty of the pagoda, especially the poetic scene when the sunset falls on the West Lake. Morning is also the time when the pagoda is less crowded, giving you a quiet space to immerse yourself in the tranquility and spirituality of this place.
Note about clothing
When visiting a temple, choosing your outfit is very important. You should wear polite, modest clothes to show respect for the place of worship. Avoid wearing clothes that are too short or revealing. This shows politeness and helps you feel comfortable.
Keep quiet when entering the temple
The temple is a sacred and peaceful place, so when entering the worship area, you should keep quiet and respect the space here. Avoid talking loudly, laughing or making loud noises that affect the tranquility of the temple.
Maintain general hygiene
One of the important rules when visiting Tran Quoc Pagoda is to maintain public hygiene. Visitors should not litter and should clean up their belongings, especially items used for worship. Maintaining hygiene shows a sense of civilization and protects the clean and beautiful landscape of the ancient pagoda. We have compiled detailed information about Tran Quoc Pagoda in Hanoi for readers above. Hopefully, with this information, readers will have more understanding about Tran Quoc Pagoda to plan their upcoming trip to Vietnam. Readers should not forget to refer to Sinhcafe's Hanoi - Vietnam tours to start an interesting, meaningful and safe trip.