Tran Quoc Pagoda
Tran Quoc Pagoda is on a small island in the middle of West Lake and is thought to be the oldest pagoda in Hanoi. The pagoda was built in the 6th century during the reign of King Ly Nam De. It has been around for more than 1,500 years and is very important to Vietnam's spiritual and cultural growth. It used to be called Khai Quoc Pagoda, which means "National Founder." It was moved to its current location and given the name Tran Quoc, which means "national protection and harmony."
Tran Quoc Pagoda has been an important Buddhist center throughout history, especially during the Tran Dynasty. Vietnamese kings often visited and worshiped there during major holidays such as Tet and full-moon days. The pagoda is famous for its traditional Buddhist architecture, including several interconnected buildings that resemble a blooming lotus, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. Visitors to the complex can see sacred Buddhist symbols, old statues, historic steles, and a Bodhi tree that is highly regarded and grown from a cutting of the original tree in India, where the Buddha became enlightened.
Tran Quoc Pagoda is set against the calm waters of West Lake and is connected to Truc Bach Lake by a small bridge. The pagoda's peaceful atmosphere is a nice contrast to the busy city around it. Tran Quoc Pagoda is a national cultural and historical monument and was voted by The Daily Mail as one of the most beautiful pagodas in the world. It is still a must-see for both pilgrims and tourists who want to learn more about Hanoi's spiritual heritage.
Note:
The pagoda is always busy, but it gets even busier on the first and fifteenth days of the month in the Lunar Calendar, when Buddhist monks and tourists come to pray and see the sights. These two days are always a good time to learn about the religious culture of the Vietnamese. But if you don't like being around a lot of people, you should stay away from these days.
Visitors to the pagoda must follow a strict dress code because it is a holy place. Don't wear clothes that show off your skin, and remember to dress appropriately. Please take off your shoes, hats, and umbrellas before you go into the shrines to worship, just like you would in any other pagoda in the world. It shows that you care about the gods and the pagodas.
Location: Thanh Nien Road, Yen Phu ward, Tay Ho District, Hanoi
Opening Hours: from 8 am to 4 pm every day
Entrance fee: free
