Having gone through many historical events, from being destroyed to being restored and renovated many times. The pagoda still retains its wonderful beauty and special appeal. The following article by Origin Vietnam will introduce One Pillar Pagoda, helping you learn more interesting information about this unique pagoda.
1. Where is One Pillar Pagoda?
One Pillar Pagoda is located on the street of the same name, One Pillar Pagoda, in Ba Dinh district, Hanoi city, Vietnam. It is located behind Ong Ich Khiem Street, and in the compound of Ba Dinh Square and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. About 3 km west of the center of Hanoi’s Old Quarter.
2. How is One Pillar Pagoda unique?
For a long time, many people have mistakenly thought that One Pillar Pagoda is a pagoda built on a pillar. In fact, this is a single structure with the correct name “Lien Hoa Dai”. This is a Quan The Am temple placed on a single pillar, located in the Dien Huu Pagoda complex.
Dien Huu Pagoda used to be very massive with many architectural items. But most of them were destroyed by war, natural disasters, and only Lien Hoa Dai remained. However, this structure still retains the name “One Pillar Pagoda” as it is commonly known.
Today, in addition to Lien Hoa Dai Nhat Tru, One Pillar Pagoda also has a three-door gate, three-protection gate, a disarming corridor, a monk’s room, and a tortoise tower in the garden.
In 1962, the One Pillar Pagoda complex in Hanoi was recognized as a National Historical and Architectural Monument. Then, in 2012, the One Pillar Pagoda continued to be honored by the Asian Record Organization with the title “The pagoda with the most unique architecture in Asia”. It has become a proud spiritual symbol of Hanoi in particular and Vietnam in general.
3. Legend and history of the formation of the One Pillar Pagoda
The One Pillar Pagoda is famous by many different names such as Dien Huu Tu, Lien Hoa Dai or Mat Pagoda. This is one of the ancient pagodas in Hanoi built during the reign of King Ly Thai Tong.
Legend has it that the story of the One Pillar Pagoda is relating with the dream of King Ly Thai Tong. In 1049, the king dreamed that the Goddess of Mercy gave him a shining lotus throne. When he woke up, the king told his mysterious dream to his ministers. After that, the monk Thien Tue advised the king to build a pagoda to remember the great merit and kindness of Quan Am.
As in the dream, the pagoda erected a Lim wood pillar, and made a lotus throne of Buddha Quan Am placed on the pillar. Then the monks went around chanting with the wish for “long-lasting blessings”, so the pagoda was named Dien Huu.
During the reign of King Ly Nhan Tong, the pagoda was renovated, built with Linh Chieu lake and decorated with a gilded lotus throne at the top of the pillar. Inside the One Pillar Pagoda is a temple with a sculpture of a divine bird on the roof and a gilded altar of Quan The Am.
The One Pillar Pagoda has undergone many renovations and repairs during the Tran, Later Le and Nguyen dynasties. In 1954, the French army used explosives to destroy the pagoda before withdrawing from the capital. In 1955, the State rebuilt the pagoda according to the design of architect Nguyen Ba Lang with the scale of a small pagoda.
4. How unique is the architecture of the One Pillar Pagoda?
The architecture of the One Pillar Pagoda is extremely unique. Today, when visiting the One Pillar Pagoda, visitors can easily see the Tam Quan gate with a horizontal lacquered board engraved with the three words “Dien Huu Tu”. The wooden panels firmly attached to the stone pillars supported for the original structure of the One Pillar Pagoda. The structure of the pagoda includes the Lotus platform, the pagoda roof and the pillars.
4.1 Tam Quan Gate
If you have the opportunity to visit the One Pillar Pagoda, you cannot miss the Tam Quan Gate – a new construction that has been expanded in recent years. The architecture of the gate is similar to traditional Vietnamese temples and pagodas, including 2 floors and 3 entrances. The Tam Quan Gate has an important meaning, representing 3 perspectives in Buddhism, which are: Huu Quan, Khong Quan and Trung Quan.
4.2 Stairs leading to the main hall
To enter the pagoda, visitors must climb 13 steps with a width of about 1 m. People built these steps during the Ly Dynasty and still exist almost intact today. In particular, the 2 rows of brick walls on both sides also have stone steles introducing the history of the pagoda.
4.3 Altar and statue of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara
This is one of the most solemn areas in One Pillar Pagoda. The statue of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara is placed in the middle, at the highest point of the Lotus Platform. The statue’s base is a lotus made of wood, intricately carved, gilded with gold. Surrounding it are vases, bronze incense burners, etc., which are not too elaborate but exude a very unique style and beauty.
4.4 Pagoda Pillars
A round block built from two stone pillars stacked on top of each other. One part is under the lake and the other part is above the water surface, up to 4m high. The pillar has a diameter of 1.2m, making it extremely sturdy.
4.5 Lotus Platform
A square block with surrounding bars, supported by sturdy pillars and columns. Inside is lavishly decorated with a gilded statue of the Goddess of Mercy with a thousand eyes and a thousand hands.
Surrounding it are many different types of worship items such as lotus vases, a pair of ceramic vases, a bronze incense burner, a set of teacups, etc. The altar is decorated with many cloud patterns and gilded with red lacquer. Above is a small horizontal lacquered board on a red background engraved with 3 golden words “Lien Hoa Dai”.
4.6 The temple roof is covered with dragon scale tiles
Roofed with red brick tiles that have been covered with moss over time, creating the ancient beauty of the temple. Each tile shows the ingenuity and meticulousness of the craftsman. On the top of the temple roof is the image of “two dragons facing the moon” – a typical architectural feature of communal houses, pagodas, and temples.
This architectural feature is a symbol of fertility, the harmony of yin and yang. This is a typical image with strong humanism in the spiritual architectural art of the Vietnamese people.
The first and fifteenth day of each lunar month are the days when the temple management board organizes a festival to clean and perform worship ceremonies in the temple.
4.7 Bodhi tree
Bodhi is still a typical tree in Buddhism, showing sacred and ancient beauty. The Bodhi tree in the temple was a gift from the President of India during a visit by President Ho Chi Minh. Underneath the tree is a stone stele, the content is “This Bodhi tree is originally from the Bodhi tree where Buddha Shakyamuni attained enlightenment in India. In February 1858, President Rajendra Prasad presented it to President Ho Chi Minh on the occasion of his visit to India”.
4.8 Linh Chieu Lake
The Linh Chieu Lake area appears poetic with a flower wall surrounding it, dotted with beautiful geometric decorative motifs. In addition to Linh Chieu Lake, there is another large lake called Bich Tri Lake. It located outside the grounds of Dien Huu Pagoda, to the right of One Pillar Pagoda. In front of Dien Huu Pagoda’s yard is a stone tower called Bach Tuynh. From this stone tower, you will see a small bridge leading to the inside of One Pillar Pagoda.
5. Spiritual, cultural and historical values of One Pillar Pagoda
One Pillar Pagoda is a cultural symbol of Thang Long for thousands of years, attracting a large number of pilgrims every year. It can be seen that the One Pillar Pagoda is not only a symbol of Hanoi, but also a symbol of wisdom and profound humanistic philosophy. In addition to bringing a sense of peace and lightness, it also helps you find the truth, goodness and beauty in life.
In addition, when visiting the One Pillar Pagoda, you will be able to admire the surrounding landscape, associated with historical images. It is like bringing us back to a glorious past to remember and be grateful for the great contributions of previous generations. Who devoted their lives to protecting peace for the Vietnamese people. Therefore, if you want your tour to Hanoi to be more meaningful and special. You should take some time to visit the One Pillar Pagoda and feel the profound values that this pagoda brings.
6. How to get to the One Pillar Pagoda?
There are many means of transport to the One Pillar Pagoda such as motorbikes, cars, taxi services, technology motorbike taxis, and buses. In which:
- For buses: you can take routes 09, 22, 33, 45, 50. These routes all stop at 15A Le Hong Phong, very convenient for visiting One Pillar Pagoda.
- For personal vehicles: you go north to the City Post Office, then choose the first exit at the roundabout to Dinh Tien Hoang Street. Next, turn left at DC Gallery to Hang Gai, go through Hang Bong to Xoi Cam and turn to Dien Bien Phu. Move along Dien Bien Phu Street to the intersection of Ong Ich Khiem and Hung Vuong, that is where you need to go.
In addition, there are 3 other routes for your reference, specifically:
- First route: Giang Vo – Nguyen Thai Hoc – Hung Vuong.
- Second route: Van Cao – Thuy Khue – Hung Vuong.
- Third route: Ton Duc Thang – Chu Van An – Dien Bien Phu.
7. Opening hours and tickets to visit One Pillar Pagoda
Because it is located in the area of Ba Dinh Square and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, the opening hours of One Pillar Pagoda will also depend on these two locations. Accordingly:
- The pagoda will be open to visitors from 7:00 – 18:00 every day.
- The normal visiting time ranges from 1 to 3 hours.
- Entrance fee: 25,000 VND/person/time.
8. Some attractive experiences at One Pillar Pagoda
8.1 Admiring the unique architectural work
Coming to One Pillar Pagoda, visitors will have the opportunity to admire the pagoda with the most unique architecture in Asia with a design in the shape of a lotus, gentle but no less majestic.
8.2 Offering incense to pray for peace
Not only a historical and religious tourist destination, One Pillar Pagoda is also a place where visitors can offer incense and pray to Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara in the Lotus Platform. Amidst the serene atmosphere of the pagoda, moments of tranquility will help visitors regain peace and feel the power of spirituality.
8.3 Checking in “virtual life” with super chill corners
When coming to One Pillar Pagoda, you should not miss the check-in activity at the most beautiful spots of the pagoda such as the three-door gate, the pagoda grounds, and the stairs to the main hall. In particular, if you wear Ao Dai and take photos here, you will have a lifetime photo album with the traditional style of the Vietnamese people.
8.4 Admiring the lush Bodhi tree
One of the highlights at One Pillar Pagoda is the Bodhi tree – a gift from the President of India to President Ho Chi Minh during his visit to this country. Underneath the tree is a stone stele with the following inscription: “This Bodhi tree originated from the Bodhi tree where Buddha Shakyamuni attained enlightenment in India. In February 1858, President Rajendra Prasad gave it to President Ho Chi Minh during his visit to India”.
9. Specialties when visiting One Pillar Pagoda
Here are some delicious and reasonable price places to eat near One Pillar Pagoda that you can refer to:
9.1 Bun Cha Huong Lien
- Address: 21 Le Van Huu, Ba Dinh, Hanoi.
- Food: Bun Cha.
- Price: 30,000 – 50,000 VND/person.
Highlights: Bun Cha Huong Lien is one of the best bun cha restaurants in Hanoi. Many people loved this restaurant by many people for its delicious, rich flavor and reasonable price.
9.2 Pho Bat Da 37
- Address: 37 Hung Vuong, Ba Dinh, Hanoi.
- Food: Pho.
- Price: 50,000 – 70,000 VND/person.
Highlights: Pho Bat Da 37 is a famous pho restaurant with a unique way of serving: pho is served in a hot stone bowl, helping to preserve the delicious flavor of the broth.
9.3 Bun thang Bat Dan
- Address: 49 Bat Dan, Ba Dinh, Hanoi.
- Dish: Bun thang.
- Price: 60,000 – 80,000 VND/person.
Highlights: Bun thang Bat Dan is a long-standing and famous bun thang restaurant in Hanoi. Many people loved this restaurant for its elegant, sophisticated flavor and fresh ingredients.
9.4 Cha ca La Vong
- Address: 14 Cha Ca, Ba Dinh, Hanoi.
- Dish: Cha ca La Vong.
- Price: 100,000 – 200,000 VND/person.
Highlights: Cha ca La Vong is one of the best cha ca restaurants in Hanoi. Many people loved this restaurant because of its delicious, rich flavor and professional service.
9.5 Bun Dau Mam Tom
- Address: Many restaurants on Le Van Huu Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi.
- Price: 30,000 – 50,000 VND/person.
Highlights: Bun Dau Mam Tom is a popular but affordable dish in Hanoi. You can easily find many delicious Bun Dau Mam Tom restaurants on Le Van Huu Street near One Pillar Pagoda.
10. Accommodation when visiting One Pillar Pagoda
Around the coordinates of One Pillar Pagoda, there are many accommodation options for you: a small, cozy homestay space, or a luxurious, spacious hotel. All of them meet your needs for rest and convenience for traveling when in Hanoi.
- Aira Boutique Hanoi Hotel & Spa. Address: 38A Tran Phu, Dien Ban Ward, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi City.
- Hanoi Esplendor Hotel and Spa. Address: 80 Hang Ga, Hang Bo Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City.
- Pullman Hanoi Hotel. Address: 40 Cat Linh, Giang Vo Ward, Dong Da District, Hanoi City.
- Beryl Palace Hotel and Spa. Address: 173 Hang Bong, Hang Bong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City.
- Mercure Hanoi la Gare. Address: 94 Ly Thuong Kiet, Cua Nam Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City.
- Super Hotel Candle. Address: No. 287 Doi Can, Lieu Giai, Ba Dinh, Hanoi.
- Grandiose Hotel & Spa. Address: No. 11 Lieu Giai, Cong Vi, Ba Dinh, Hanoi.
- Hanoi 20 Hotel & Apartment. Address: No. 93A Doi Can, Doi Can, Ba Dinh, Hanoi.
- Royal Hotel. Address: No. 19 Hang Chao, Cat Linh, Dong Da, Hanoi.
11. Some other famous tourist attractions near One Pillar Pagoda
One Pillar Pagoda is located right in the center of the capital, so it is quite close to famous relics. After visiting One Pillar Pagoda, visitors can visit some other tourist attractions:
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum 250m away.
- Hanoi Flag Tower 800m away.
- Thang Long Imperial Citadel 1km away.
- Hoa Lo Prison 2.4km away.
- Tran Quoc Pagoda 1.6km away.
- Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy is 1.2km away.
12. Some important notes when visiting One Pillar Pagoda
When visiting One Pillar Pagoda, you need to pay attention to the following issues:
- Choose modest, polite clothing when visiting the pagoda and avoid wearing pants or skirts above the knee.
- The pagoda has restricted areas, visitors should pay attention to signs during the visit.
- Walk lightly, speak softly, do not touch ancient artifacts in the pagoda grounds.
- Preserve the landscape and general hygiene.
- Follow the pagoda’s regulations, do not perform illegal or superstitious acts.
- While burning incense, place the incense in the right place and do not drop money into the lotus pond.
- Follow the pagoda’s thanksgiving ceremony time to avoid affecting the ceremonies and activities of the community of believers.
With its special beauty and meaning, One Pillar Pagoda is always a familiar destination for many tourists when coming to Hanoi. When you come here, you will not only experience the culture and history, but also have the opportunity to admire the unique architecture and spirituality of the pagoda.
Contact Origin Vietnam – a professional tour operator. We are ready to share updated and useful information about beautiful destinations in the capital Hanoi. We will also accompany you on your tour Hanoi to discover the travel beauty of Hanoi with the best experiences.
