One Pillar Pagoda, also known as Dien Huu Pagoda, stands as a testament to exquisite architecture and deep-rooted history. Its name derives from the fact that the entire structure is built on a single pillar, elegantly positioned in the midst of a tranquil lotus pond. Located in Ba Dinh District, this captivating attraction is conveniently situated in close proximity to the Ho Chi Minh Complex, which includes Ba Dinh Square, Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, and Ho Chi Minh Museum. Not only is the One Pillar Pagoda a renowned tourist destination, but it also holds great significance as a religious pilgrimage site for locals.
Photo by @khoitranduc
A Tale of History
The construction of the temple dates back to the Ly Dynasty, with Emperor Ly Thai Tong overseeing its creation between 1028 and 1054. Legend has it that Emperor Ly Thai Tong dreamt of Quan Am Bo Tat, a revered female Buddhist deity, guiding him to sit on a lotus. Inspired by this vision, the Emperor sought the counsel of the master monk Thien Tue, who advised him to build a sanctuary resembling the delicate shape of a lotus flower. Symbolizing purity, fortune, and enlightenment, the lotus holds great significance in both Confucianism and Buddhism. The One Pillar Pagoda became a manifestation of Emperor Ly Thai Tong’s profound gratitude towards Quan Am Bo Tat.
Sadly, during the French colonization of Vietnam, the One Pillar Pagoda was destroyed in 1954, leaving only the stone pillar intact. However, the government swiftly took action and reconstructed the pagoda in 1955, ensuring its preservation for generations to come.
In recognition of its unique architectural design, the temple was designated as a National Historic Heritage in 1962 and has since become one of Hanoi’s most revered historical monuments. In 2012, the One Pillar Pagoda received further acclaim when it was declared “the most unique architectural monument” by the Asian Records Association in India.
The Beauty and Structure
The One Pillar Pagoda is part of an architectural complex that entwines various elements within its grounds. Lien Hoa Dai, the temple itself, gracefully perches upon a single stone pillar. Eight wooden beams, representing the petals of a flower, provide support for the main structure. The meticulous craftsmanship of these beams ensures a seamless connection, resulting in an awe-inspiring and robust architectural marvel. To reach Lien Hoa Dai, visitors ascend a brick stairway adorned with 13 steps, linking the temple to the tranquil lakefront.
Photo by @minhlehong
Inside the pagoda, the inner altar exudes an air of solemnity, adorned with a resplendent golden statue of Quan Am Bo Tat and other sacred objects such as copper censers, ceramic vases, and gold-plated lotuses.
Within the complex, there also stands a Bodhi tree, gifted by the President of India, Rajendra Prasad, during President Ho Chi Minh’s visit to India in February 1958. This gesture highlighted the flourishing relationship between India and Vietnam. The Bodhi tree, symbolizing wisdom and the tolerance of Buddhism, holds great significance within the temple.
Best Time to Visit
The One Pillar Pagoda welcomes visitors during its opening hours. On the first and fifteenth day of each lunar month, a worship ritual takes place within the inner sanctum. Visiting during these occasions affords the opportunity to witness a common yet remarkable tradition: the Vietnamese people devoutly worshipping their gods and ancestors.
The pagoda is open to visitors from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. While local residents enjoy free entrance, foreign tourists are kindly requested to contribute a nominal fee of VND25,000 ($1) for the ticket.
How to Get There
The One Pillar Pagoda resides on Chua Mot Cot Street, within the central district of Ba Dinh. Taxis are the most convenient mode of transportation for those without private vehicles in Vietnam. The journey from the Old Quarter or the city center typically takes around 15 minutes. Alternatively, one can embark on a tour that includes a visit to the One Pillar Pagoda, along with other captivating attractions within the Ho Chi Minh Complex. This tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the area and can be completed within approximately three hours.
Useful Information
- Location: Chua Mot Cot
- Best for: Family, couple, solo
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM, Everyday
- Distance to city center: 0.9km (0.6 mi)
Plan a visit to the One Pillar Pagoda and immerse yourself in the captivating beauty and rich cultural heritage it holds. Experience a spiritual oasis within the heart of Hanoi, where breathtaking architecture and sacred traditions converge.
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