Ngoc Son Temple in Hanoi boasts a deep history, stunning architecture, and beautiful views of Hoan Kiem Lake, making it a must-visit spiritual and cultural destination.
Ngoc Son Temple is one of the most iconic landmarks in Hanoi, Vietnam. Located on a small island in the middle of the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, the temple not only offers spectacular views but also holds a long history that is deeply rooted in Vietnamese culture and spirituality.
Dedicated to two important figures—Taoist deity Van Xuong De Quan (Wenchang Dijun) and General Tran Hung Dao—the temple reflects the rich cultural heritage that the Vietnamese capital has to offer.
Built in the 19th century, Ngoc Son Temple has undergone numerous renovations and maintenance that have allowed it to remain a revered spiritual and cultural symbol.
With its stunning architecture and serene ambiance, Ngoc Son Temple is the perfect place to enjoy some peace while immersing yourself in its rich history.
History of Ngoc Son Temple
The construction of Ngoc Son Temple began in 1841 under the Ly Dynasty. It was designed to worship Van Xuong De Quan, a Taoist god often associated with happiness and prosperity for scholars.
It also commemorates General Tran Hung Dao, a hero who defeated the Mongols in the 13th century and became a symbol of resilience and courage for the Vietnamese people.
In 1865, a renowned Vietnamese scholar, Nguyen Van Sieu, made major improvements to the temple. He not only introduced more complex architectural elements such as the Tran Ba Pavilion and the Pen Tower, but also built the iconic Huc Bridge, which connects the mainland to the temple located on a small island.
Through these renovation efforts, Ngoc Son Temple was transformed into a stunning architectural complex, combining traditional Vietnamese elements and Taoism.
As one of the must-visit Things to do in Hanoi, this temple offers visitors a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural and spiritual heritage, making it a perfect stop for history enthusiasts and travelers alike.
Ngoc Son Temple has become a highly revered destination for many, both locals who come to pray for good fortune, and tourists who want to admire the architecture and scenery.
In 2013, the temple was recognized as a National Special Relic site by the Vietnamese government, affirming its importance in the country’s cultural heritage.
The Captivating Architecture of Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple is not only famous for its history, but also for its extraordinary architecture. Every element of the temple’s buildings is designed to harmonize with nature and contains deep symbolic meanings. Here are some of the prominent architectural features of Ngoc Son Temple:
1. Nghi Mon Gate
The Nghi Mon Gate is the main entrance to the temple complex, with two large pillars decorated with Chinese characters on both sides.
This gate gives a very distinctive impression and shows the influence of Chinese culture in the architecture of this temple. After passing through this gate, visitors will be greeted with the view of the Pen Tower located on the left.
2. Pen Tower
The Pen Tower is one of the most iconic parts of Ngoc Son Temple. Built in 1865, the tower stands on a rocky hill and is about 28 meters tall. The tower is shaped like a very unique stone quill, with three Chinese characters carved, which read “Ta Thanh Thien” or “Write in the Sky”.
The tower is dedicated to the great contribution of Lord Trinh to literature and his contribution to fighting the colonialists. The Pen Tower serves as an important symbol of Vietnamese culture and literature.
3. Long Mon Ho Bang Gate
After the tower, visitors will enter the Long Mon Ho Bang Gate, which also has two large pillars with a roof design similar to a traditional pagoda.
On the right side of the gate, there is a dragon carving, while on the left side there is a white tiger carving. These two symbols represent the trials of life that must be passed to achieve success and inspire the younger generation to continue learning and trying.
4. Dai Nghien Gate
Dai Nghien Gate is located near Huc Bridge and is an important element of the temple complex. Above the gate is a large ink pot engraved with a poem by the famous writer Nguyen Van Sieu.
The poem contains 64 Chinese characters that describe the wisdom and philosophy of life. It is said that on the morning of the 5th day of the 5th month in the lunar calendar, the shadow of a pen from the Pen Tower will fall directly on the ink pot, creating a very symbolic scene.
5. Huc Bridge
Huc Bridge, which means “Where the Sunshine Shines”, is one of the most recognizable features of Ngoc Son Temple. This red wooden bridge connects the mainland to the temple, which is located on a small island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake.
When the sun rises, the sunlight shines on the bridge, creating a stunning sight. At night, the bridge is lit up, adding to the magical atmosphere of the surroundings.
6. Dac Nguyet Lau Gate
Dac Nguyet Lau Gate, or “Moon Viewing Pavilion”, is located at the end of Huc Bridge. The gate is surrounded by old banyan trees and has two floors.
The upper floor is equipped with two layers of roof, while the round windows inside are decorated with images of phoenixes and dragons, a very strong symbol of Vietnamese culture. This gate is a quiet and comfortable place to enjoy the view of the moon and the lake.
7. Tran Ba Pavilion
Tran Ba Pavilion is located south of Ngoc Son Temple. Built with two layers of roof and supported by eight pillars, this pavilion serves to protect Vietnamese culture from outside influences that were considered negative during the feudal era.
This structure gives a sturdy and impressive impression, while maintaining the authenticity of local culture.
8. Main Temple Area
The main area of the temple consists of two main buildings. One building is dedicated to worshiping the god Van Xuong De Quan and General Tran Hung Dao, while the other building displays two large turtles related to the famous legend of Hoan Kiem Lake.
The legend tells of a mythical turtle that emerged from the lake and returned a magical sword to Emperor Le Loi, who led the Vietnamese army against the invaders. These turtle statues are a symbol of the courage and independence of the Vietnamese people.
How to Get to & Ticket Prices Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple is located in the center of Hanoi, making it easily accessible from various places. You can use various modes of transportation such as taxi, motorbike, or even walk from your accommodation.
If you prefer to explore the city more flexibly, renting a motorbike is the best option. Several buses also pass through the Hoan Kiem Lake area, such as bus No. 36, 08, 14, and 31, which can take you directly to the entrance of the temple.
Ngoc Son Temple is open daily from 7am to 6pm, with extended hours on Fridays and Sundays, until 9pm. The entrance fee for adults is VND 50,000, while children are VND 15,000. This ticket gives you full access to the entire temple complex and the beautiful surrounding area.
Things to Do Around Ngoc Son Temple
1. Explore Hanoi’s Old Town
Near Ngoc Son Temple, you can explore Hanoi’s Old Town, which is filled with shops, boutiques and art galleries. It’s a great place to pick up unique items and soak up the city’s history.
2. Visit St. Joseph’s Cathedral
St. Joseph’s Cathedral, located not far from the temple, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. The church features beautiful stained glass windows and towering columns, making it a must-see.
3. Enjoy Hanoi Cuisine
A walk around the temple also offers a variety of Hanoi specialties. From pho to bun cha, you can sample a variety of delicious local dishes that reflect the city’s culinary culture.
Ngoc Son Temple is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of Vietnam’s rich history and culture. With its beautiful architecture, serene location, and deep spiritual significance, the temple is a must-visit for anyone visiting Hanoi.
As one of the Tourist Attractions in Vietnam, Ngoc Son Temple offers a glimpse into the country’s rich heritage and traditions.
With a variety of attractions nearby, a visit to Ngoc Son Temple offers an unforgettable experience for travelers looking to delve deeper into Vietnam’s rich culture.