The Complete Travel Guide for Tourists to Explore Ngoc Son Temple

Introduction

Ngoc Son Temple is a small island situated in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi, and is considered one of the most famous cultural and historic monuments of Vietnam. The other name for it is the Temple of the Jade Mountain-a name that is steeped in symbolic meaning in reference to this city's spiritual heritage: transferring citizens and foreign tourists into its peaceful atmosphere, far away from the noisy capital. Its location is dramatic, and this architectural splendor, combined with the richness in history, should not be missed by any person touring Hanoi.

History of Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple was built in the 19th century during the Nguyen Dynasty and was dedicated to Tran Hung Dao, a much-respected Vietnamese general who fought against the Mongol invasions in the 13th century. Over time, the temple came to be dedicated to other figures: Van Xuong, the god of literature, and La To, the patron saint of physicians. Construction of the temple reflects a harmonious balance between Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist influences; hence, it carries the reflection of spiritual diversity in Vietnam.

Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple (Source: Indochina Odyssey Tours)

The name "Ngoc Son" is taken from its serene surroundings-the temple stands on a jade-green islet in Hoan Kiem Lake. According to legend, the lake was where Emperor Le Loi returned a magical sword to the Golden Turtle God after using it in liberating Vietnam from Chinese rule. This fact embroiders more mystery into the already mystique lake and places Ngoc Son Temple as a very significant historical and cultural spot.

How to Get to Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple is located right in central Hanoi, so the place is easy to reach by whatever transport means.

On Foot: If your accommodation happens to be near the Old Quarter or Hoan Kiem Lake, then the temple is actually within walking distance. Take a gentle stroll around the lake and reach the iconic red bridge that leads to the temple.
By Taxi or Ride-Hailing Applications: you can always get to places with a Grab or Be-a relatively cheap ride. Type "Ngoc Son Temple" for the destination address.

Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple (Source: Hanoi Daewoo Hotel)

By "Cyclo": This will be traditional and unique-take a cyclo around the Old Quarter and let them drop you off near the temple.
By Public Bus: Many of the passing buses, especially bus routes 09, 14, and 36, stop along the sides very close to Hoan Kiem Lake. From this bus station, it would take only a few steps to reach this temple.

There is an entrance to Ngoc Son Temple along the Dinh Tien Hoang Street. To get across to the islet, there is a traditionally iconic bridge in bright red shade of wooden colored paint known as The Huc Bridge.

Read more: North Central Vietnam Trekking Tour 4 days: Ngoc Son - Ngo Luong

What to See in Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple is a combination of cultural, historical, and architectural highlights that impress guests with the following features:

Huc Bridge: The name means the "Bridge of the Rising Sun." This iconic red-painted bridge is very symbolic for Hanoi. Its arched design together with the bright color is highly photogenic and thus serves as a serenely peaceful approach to the temple.

Pen's Tower: this is a stone tower in the shape of a writing brush at the entrance to the temple. It denotes that knowledge and literature are more crucial than feudal political power. There, on the three Chinese characters inlaid in the tower to mean "write on the blue sky," there appeared the desires of scholars.

Ngoc Son Temple

What to see in Ngoc Son Temple (Source: Tripadvisor)

The Gateways: The temple gateways are designed in such a great manner, which gives evidence of elaborated carvings, calligraphy, and symbols depicting Confucian and Taoist philosophers. The various gateways create the spiritual tone of the visit to this temple.

Central Temple: Containing three altars inside this compound, which were reserved only for Tran Hung Dao, Van Xuong, and La To respectively. They have been beautifully decorated with various offerings, incense, and traditional Vietnamese artifacts.

Cultural Exhibits

Cultural Exhibits (Source: Hanoi Times)

Cultural Exhibits: Inside the temple, there are various artifacts, paintings, and relics that show the rich history and cultural heritage of Vietnam.

Conclusion

Ngoc Son Temple is much more than a historical site; it is a window to the spiritual and cultural soul of Vietnam, really. With its beautiful architecture, serene surroundings, and deep historical significance, the temple gives one an opportunity to connect with the past of Hanoi while experiencing moments of quietude amidst a vibrant city. Planning to visit Hanoi?

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