Chùa Thầy

Sài Sơn, Quốc Oai, Hanoi

The Longstanding History of Thay Pagoda Thay Pagoda is located in Sai Son Commune, Quoc Oai District, about 25km west of downtown Hanoi. The pagoda was built during the Ly Dynasty and is associated with Zen master Tu Dao Hanh - a legendary figure in the history of Vietnamese Buddhism. The name "Thay Pagoda" comes from the local habit of referring to Zen master Tu Dao Hanh as "Thay" (meaning "teacher"). Legend has it that Zen master Tu Dao Hanh created the art of water puppetry, a unique form of Vietnamese folk culture. This pagoda is not only a sacred place of worship but also preserves many artifacts, artworks, and architectural structures of great value.

Unique Architecture in Harmony with Nature

Thay Pagoda stands out with its ancient architectural style that blends seamlessly with nature. The pagoda is surrounded by the Sai Son mountain range, with Long Tri Lake in front. From the three-entrance gate, visitors walk across the old tiled Thanh Long and Bach Ho bridges - two bridges symbolizing the boundary between the secular world and the Buddhist realm.

The main pagoda consists of three buildings: Tien Duong (Front Hall), Trung Duong (Middle Hall), and Hau Duong (Rear Hall), featuring red-tiled roofs and intricately carved ceilings. Here, visitors can admire artistic wooden carvings and exquisitely sculpted statues of Buddhas and Bodhisattvas.

Explore Thay Pagoda at Your Leisure

When visiting Thay Pagoda, you can freely spend time hiking, enjoying the scenery, and discovering the unique spiritual atmosphere of the area. Visitors can climb up to Coc Cave and Ga Cave, believed to be where Zen master Tu Dao Hanh practiced.

Today, Thay Pagoda is an ideal destination for history, architecture, and nature lovers seeking tranquility amidst nature.

Festival and Folk Culture

Every year, the Thay Pagoda Festival takes place from the 5th to the 7th of the third lunar month, attracting many visitors. This festival is not only an occasion to honor Zen master Tu Dao Hanh but also an opportunity for visitors to experience water puppetry and immerse themselves in vibrant local music and colors.

Thay Pagoda is not just a spiritual destination but also a place that reflects the proud historical journey of the Vietnamese people.

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Nearby attractions

Huong Pagoda relic complex

Huong Pagoda, located in My Duc District, Hanoi, is a famous spiritual and cultural complex, combining poetic natural landscapes and ancient architecture. With Huong Tich Cave - "The First Cave in the South", poetic Yen Stream, and the biggest spring festival, Huong Pagoda attracts millions of Buddhists and tourists. This is an ideal destination to find peace and explore Vietnamese culture.