Ngoc Son Temple, Hanoi
Buddhist Temple in Hanoi
Ngoc Son Temple sits gracefully on a small island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, offering a peaceful escape from the energetic streets of Hanoi. Connected to the lakeshore by the iconic red The Huc Bridge, this 19th-century temple complex blends history, religion, and mythology into one of the must-see places in Hanoi. Surrounded by calm waters and shaded by ancient trees, it provides a serene contrast to the constant movement of the Old Quarter.
Dedicated to revered historical and spiritual figures, Ngoc Son Temple has long been a place of reflection and cultural pride. Its legends, symbolic architectural elements, and picturesque setting make it a highlight of any walking tour of Hanoi's Old Quarter, especially for travellers interested in Vietnam's spiritual heritage.
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History and Significance of Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple traces its origins to the 17th century, when the site formed part of the Hoan Kiem lakefront before later becoming separated by a road. It was rebuilt in the 19th century to honour Tran Hung Dao, the celebrated Tran Dynasty general who defeated invading Yuan Mongol armies in the 13th century. The temple also venerates Van Xuong De Quan, the Taoist God of Prosperity and literature, reflecting the site's embrace of intellectual and moral virtues.
Originally known as Ngoc Son Pagoda, the site was renamed Ngoc Son Temple to reflect its devotion to historical and cultural figures rather than Buddhist practice alone. In 1865, the scholar Nguyen Van Sieu led major renovations that shaped the temple complex we see today. His additions-including The Huc Bridge, But Thap (Pen Tower), Dai Nghien (Ink Slab), and Tran Ba Dinh (Tidal Wave Defense Pavilion)-formed a unique combination of spiritual symbolism, Confucian ideals, and artistic expression.
This architectural ensemble remains a cultural treasure of Hanoi, connecting generations through stories of heroism, scholarship, and spiritual harmony.
Things to See and Do in Ngoc Son Temple
Visiting Ngoc Son Temple is not just about the temple itself-it is about discovering the entire complex of monuments that frame it. Begin at the Pen Tower (But Thap), a stone sculpture resembling a pen pointed toward the sky. This symbol represents the aspiration of scholars to leave their mark upon the world. Nearby, the Ink Slab (Dai Nghien) symbolizes the earth, grounding intellectual ambitions with realism and discipline.
Cross The Huc Bridge next. Painted in vibrant red, this graceful structure symbolizes “the place where the sun shines,” representing warmth, hope, and enlightenment. Its gentle curve and lacquered pillars create one of Hanoi’s most photographed scenes.
Beyond the bridge lies Dac Nguyet Lau (Moon Gazing Pavilion), adorned with symbols of longevity and protection. Continuing further, visitors reach Tran Ba Dinh, a beautifully designed pavilion signifying resilience in the face of external pressures, echoing Vietnam’s long-standing cultural endurance.
Inside the temple, two worship halls honour Tran Hung Dao and Van Xuong De Quan. The statue of Tran Hung Dao exudes strength and determination, while Van Xuong De Quan’s figure reflects scholarly wisdom. A statue of Amitabha Buddha also stands here, illustrating the harmonious blend of Taoist, Confucian, and Buddhist beliefs found throughout Vietnamese spirituality.
How to Get to Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple is located on Jade Island in Hoan Kiem Lake, accessible by The Huc Bridge from the lake's northeastern shore. Travellers arriving in Hanoi will land at Noi Bai International Airport, about 30 kilometres from the Old Quarter. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hanoi on Booking.com.
Those arriving by train can reach the temple area easily from Hanoi Railway Station, the city’s central rail hub. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
If travelling by car or taxi, expect moderate traffic around Hoan Kiem Lake, especially on weekends, but convenient drop-off points are available along Dinh Tien Hoang Street.
Practical Tips on Visiting Ngoc Son Temple
- Suggested tips: Wear modest clothing to enter the temple respectfully.
- Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon when the temple is most peaceful and the light is ideal for photos.
- Entrance fee: Free
- Opening hours: Open 8-6pm daily
- How long to spend: Around 30-45 minutes exploring the complex.
- Accessibility: The bridge is accessible to most visitors, though steps and uneven surfaces exist within the temple.
- Facilities: Small ticket booth and information displays; cafés and shops around the lake provide additional conveniences.
- Photography tip: Capture The Huc Bridge just after sunrise for vibrant colour reflections across the water.
- Guided tours: Frequently included in Hoan Kiem Lake cultural and heritage tours.
- Nearby food options: Numerous cafés, ice cream stalls, and Vietnamese eateries surround the lake.
Where to Stay close to Ngoc Son Temple
Hotels close to Hoan Kiem Lake offer ideal access to Ngoc Son Temple and nearby attractions. Consider Hanoi Pearl Hotel for easy lakeside access. For elegant style and scenic views, Apricot Hotel is a popular choice. Travellers seeking boutique charm may also enjoy La Siesta Classic Hang Thung.
Is Ngoc Son Temple Worth Visiting?
Yes, Ngoc Son Temple is absolutely worth visiting. Its combination of historical significance, spiritual depth, and architectural harmony makes it one of Hanoi's most treasured landmarks. Whether you come for the legends, the tranquil scenery, or the cultural insights, the temple promises a memorable and meaningful experience.
What Other Travellers Say...
Pearls Lake Pagoda, tucked in the heart of the Old Quarter at Suối 128 P. Nguyễn Khuyến, Đống Đa, Hà Nội, is a well-maintained, beautifully decorated temple offering peaceful spaces for meditation, reading or writing; visitors praise its calming atmosphere, multiple areas to explore, and morning accessibility, though some note it can be crowded with flags during events and mosquitoes can be an issue.
FAQs for Visiting Ngoc Son Temple
Nearby Attractions to Ngoc Son Temple
- Hoan Kiem Lake: The cultural and scenic centre of Hanoi.
- Ba Kieu Temple: A rare Mother Goddess temple just across the lakeside path.
- Thang Long Water Puppet Theater: A beloved venue for traditional performances.
- Hang Gai Street: A vibrant shopping street known for silk and handicrafts.
- Saint Joseph's Cathedral: A striking neo-Gothic church within walking distance.
The Ngoc Son Temple appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanoi!
Moira & Andy
Hey! We're Moira & Andy. From hiking the Camino to trips around Europe in Bert our campervan — we've been traveling together since retirement in 2020!
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Planning Your Visit
Open 8-6pm daily
Free
Nearby Attractions
- Ba Kieu Temple (0.1) km
Chinese Shrine - Thang Long Water Puppet Theater (0.1) km
Theatre - Hoan Kiem Lake (0.2) km
Lake - Hang Gai Street (0.3) km
Street - Ly Thai To Statue & Park (0.4) km
Park and Statue - St. Joseph’s Cathedral (0.4) km
Cathedral - Hanoi Ancient House (0.4) km
Historic Building - Hanoi Post Office (0.5) km
Historic Building - State Guest House (0.5) km
Historic Building - Hoa Phong Tower (0.5) km
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