Thich Nhat Hanh: An International Buddhist Zen Master from Hue
Thich Nhat Hanh, the world-renowned Zen master, began his journey at Tu Hieu Pagoda, Hue. He was a prominent peace activist during the Vietnam War. Later, he gained fame for his teachings of Engaged Buddhism, mindfulness in the Plum Village Tradition, and his monastic books.
One Pillar Pagoda: A Buddhist Lotus Pedestal in Hanoi
One Pillar Pagoda, otherwise known as the Lotus Pedestal at Dien Huu Pagoda, dates to the second Ly King. Discover why it’s shaped like a lotus and built in a pond dedicated to Guan Yin. A visit to this tranquil pagoda is also a chance to see a Bodhi tree from Bodh Gaya.
Hanoi Old Quarter: A Charming Historian of Trades
Hanoi Old Quarter used to be the urban hub and trade center of the feudal capital before Hanoi. Stroll around architectural charms while shopping at stores or in markets. There are specialty streets for beer, coffee, jewelry, or stop by the popular water puppet theatre.
West Lake: Tranquility Amid Temples and Pagodas
West Lake is the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi with a most tranquil atmosphere. While strolling around, visit a mythical princess at Tay Ho Temple, or the God of the North Star at Quan Thanh Temple. But first, read about the fox and buffalo and other names for the lake.
Tran Quoc Pagoda: The Oldest Sacred Ground in Hanoi
Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist site in Hanoi dating to 541 CE. It maintains the principles of Buddhist architecture despite many restorations. The famed Lotus Tower makes it one of the most picturesque pagodas in the world. Its Banyan Tree was gifted from Bodh Gaya.
Perfume Pagoda: The Legendary Guan Yin Cave
Perfume Pagoda is a scenic day trip to the mountains on Hanoi’s outskirts. Its famous annual festival attracts throngs of Buddhist pilgrims. Take a boat ride to Trinh Temple of the legendary first kings of Vietnam, or Huong Tich Cave where the Goddess Guan Yin manifested.
Mua Cave and Tam Coc - Bich Dong Tourist Area
Mua Cave is the place you need to be for fantastic views of Tam Coc – Bich Dong. This trilling hike is a Tran Dynasty experience of mythical landscapes not to be missed. Discover the past at Vu Lam Palace, explore nature in Thung Nham Bird Garden, or delight in Galaxy Cave.
Hoan Kiem Lake: An Iconic Legend of Hanoi
Turtles are legendary in Vietnam. One story involves Hoan Kiem Lake also known as Lake of the Returned Sword. Find out why and discover the history of Hoan Kiem back to the 15th century. Visit Ngoc Son Temple and Huc Bridge, or take part in fun activities with locals.
Bai Dinh Pagoda with Nine National Attainments
Bai Dinh Pagoda stands in Hoa Lu Ancient Capital in Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex. The site dates to 968 AD and relic structures still stand in the Ancient Area. Witness the splendor and beauty of its 9 National Attainments and a sublime heritage of Buddhist culture.