Ba Kieu Temple, Hanoi

Temple in Hanoi

Den Ba Kieu
Den Ba Kieu
CC BY-SA 3.0 / Codobai

Ba Kieu Temple, officially known as Thien Tien Pavilion, stands on the eastern edge of Hoan Kiem Lake facing Ngoc Son Temple. As one of Vietnam's few temples devoted to the Mother Goddess, it holds a special place in Hanoi's religious and cultural life. Its beautiful structure, ancient relics, and deep mythology make it one of the must-see places in Hanoi for travellers interested in sacred heritage and traditional beliefs.

Dedicated to Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh-one of the Four Immortals in Vietnamese mythology-the temple also honours her two fairy maidens, Princesses Quynh Hoa and Que Hoa. Ba Kieu's rare legacy, atmospheric surroundings, and preserved architecture make it often visited on walking tours of Hanoi's Old Quarter, especially those exploring Hoan Kiem Lake.

History and Significance of Ba Kieu Temple

Ba Kieu Temple was built during the Later Le Restoration and expanded in the mid-17th century under the Canh Tri reign. It was constructed using high-quality materials, such as wood from the Xua jungle and rock from Nhue Mountain in the Chau Ai region. The temple's artisans crafted an architectural masterpiece shaped like the Chinese character 工 (gong), consisting of three main components: the Dai Bai (Ceremony Chamber), the Phuong Dinh (Fang Pavilion), and the Hau Cung (Back Chamber).

The temple honours Lieu Hanh, a central figure in the Mother Goddess religion and a revered Immortal alongside Tan Vien, Saint Giong, and Chu Dong Tu. Legends tell of her descending to earth to help humankind, embodying compassion, beauty, and spiritual protection. Her two attendants, Quynh Hoa and Que Hoa, complete the temple’s sacred trio.

Despite the city's many historical upheavals, Ba Kieu Temple has been carefully restored and retains much of its ancient appearance. Its importance is enhanced by rare relics from the Le, Tay Son, and Nguyen dynasties, including a valuable bronze bell cast in 1800 by Tran Duy Ung, a dignitary under the Tay Son Dynasty. Together with 27 royal conferment papers and four significant steles, these relics provide a remarkable archival record of the Mother Goddess tradition.

Things to See and Do in Ba Kieu Temple

Visitors to Ba Kieu Temple can admire its ornate wooden architecture, antique design features, and tranquil interior. The temple's three-part layout invites exploration, from the grand ceremonial hall to the back chamber honouring the goddesses. Intricate carvings, polished wooden beams, and artistic motifs reflect the craftsmanship of centuries past.

One of the highlights is the collection of historic stone steles. These include Hung Cong Bi from 1800, documents recording restorations, and a stele tracing the lineage and worship practices of the Le clan. Equally significant are the 27 conferment papers granting titles to Lieu Hanh and her maidens, some dating back to the 18th century. These documents are treasured artifacts in the study of Mother Goddess worship.

The temple's peaceful setting beside Hoan Kiem Lake makes it an inviting place for reflection. Visitors often combine a stop at Ba Kieu with nearby Ngoc Son Temple, appreciating the deep spiritual roots that connect the Hoan Kiem lakefront's religious sites.

How to Get to Ba Kieu Temple

Ba Kieu Temple is located on the east side of Hoan Kiem Lake, easily accessible from most areas of central Hanoi. Travellers arriving by air will land at Noi Bai International Airport, approximately 30 kilometres from the city centre. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hanoi on Booking.com.
Those arriving by rail can reach the lake area quickly from Hanoi Railway Station, the main train hub. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
If travelling by car or taxi, note that the Hoan Kiem area can be busy, especially in the evenings and on weekends, but drop-off points near the lake are available.

Practical Tips on Visiting Ba Kieu Temple

  • Suggested tips: Visit in the morning when light filters beautifully across the lake and into the temple.
  • Best time to visit: Weekdays for a quieter, more contemplative atmosphere.
  • Opening hours: Open daily 08:30am – 04:30pm, midday break 11:30am-01:30pm.
  • How long to spend: Around 20-30 minutes, longer if studying inscriptions and relics.
  • Accessibility: The area is pedestrian-friendly, though some temple steps may pose difficulties for some visitors.
  • Facilities: Nearby cafés, shops, and rest areas around Hoan Kiem Lake.
  • Photography tip: Capture the façade from across the lake path for a harmonious composition with water and trees.
  • Guided tours: Frequently included in walking tours of Hoan Kiem Lake and spiritual sites.
  • Nearby food options: The lake area offers many cafés, dessert shops, and Vietnamese eateries.

Where to Stay close to Ba Kieu Temple

Staying near Hoan Kiem Lake provides excellent access to Ba Kieu Temple and surrounding attractions. Consider Hanoi Pearl Hotel for comfortable lakeside proximity. For elegant décor and prime views, Apricot Hotel is a superb choice. Travellers wanting boutique charm may enjoy La Siesta Classic Hang Thung.

Is Ba Kieu Temple Worth Visiting?

Yes, Ba Kieu Temple is definitely worth visiting. Its unique dedication to the Mother Goddess, rich collection of historical artifacts, and beautiful lakeside location make it one of Hanoi's most meaningful cultural sites. Whether you are exploring legends, architecture, or spiritual traditions, the temple offers a rewarding and memorable experience.

FAQs for Visiting Ba Kieu Temple

Is Ba Kieu Temple dedicated to a specific deity?
Yes, it honours Mother Goddess Lieu Hanh and her two fairy maidens, Quynh Hoa and Que Hoa.

Can you take photos inside the temple?
Photography is generally permitted, though visitors should remain respectful near altars.

Are the relics original?
Most are authentic artifacts from the Le, Tay Son, and Nguyen dynasties.

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The Ba Kieu Temple appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanoi!

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Visiting Ba Kieu Temple

Hours:

Open daily 08:30am - 04:30pm, midday break 11:30am-01:30pm.

Address: Đền Bà Kiệu, Phố Đinh Tiên Hoàng, French Quarter, Ly Thai To, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi: 2 km

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