Hoa Phong Tower

Tower in Hanoi

CC BY-SA 4.0 / The Hanoian

Hoa Phong Tower stands as a testament to Hanoi’s rich historical tapestry, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s past. It is also a popular spot for both locals and tourists to take photos, especially while wearing traditional Vietnamese clothes like ao dai. The tower is easily visible as you walk around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Hoa Phong Tower is a remarkable remnant of the Bao An Pagoda complex, constructed hundreds of years ago. Historical records indicate that the construction of Bao An Pagoda was overseen by Nguyen Dang Giai, the governor of Ha Ninh (Hanoi – Bac Ninh), who initiated and funded the grand-scale construction of the pagoda in 1846 during Emperor Thieu Tri’s reign.

Upon its completion, Bao An Pagoda was one of the most majestic structures in Hanoi, featuring 36 roofs and 150 chambers. However, in 1888, French colonialists demolished the pagoda to construct the Central Post Office, preserving only Hoa Phong Tower, located behind the original pagoda. Today, it stands as a silent witness to Hanoi’s rich historical heritage.

Hoa Phong Tower consists of three levels. The first level is the largest and tallest, featuring arched doorways in all four directions, symbolizing openness. Above each doorway are inscriptions:

Bao An Mon (Gate of Gratitude)
Bao Nghia Mon (Gate of Righteousness)
Bao Duc Mon (Gate of Virtue)
Bao Phuc Mon (Gate of Blessing)

The second level of the tower is characterized by a pillar at each corner, each supporting a statue of a guardian lion, all facing east. The third level is inscribed with the name “Hoa Phong Thap” (Hoa Phong Tower). At the top, the tower is adorned with a gourd-shaped ornament.

The Hoa Phong Tower appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanoi!

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