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Huong Pagoda relic complex

Hương Sơn, H. Mỹ Đức, Tp. Hà Nội, Việt Nam

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.

Huong Pagoda – A Famous Spiritual and Cultural Complex in Vietnam

Huong Pagoda, also known as Huong Son, is one of the most prominent spiritual and cultural relics in Hanoi, located about 60 km southwest of the city center. Built during the Ly Dynasty (11th), Huong Pagoda is not only century a sacred pilgrimage site but also boasts magnificent natural beauty, attracting both domestic and international tourists.

1. Overview of Huong Pagoda

Huong Pagoda is situated in the Yen Stream valley, including many pagodas, temples, and limestone caves, rich in historical and folk religious significance. This complex is closely associated with the development of Buddhism and the worship of the Mother Goddess among the Vietnamese. The word "Huong" in its name symbolizes purity, like an invitation to a mystical spiritual space.

2. Historical Background

Pagoda incense originated from the 15th century and was rebuilt in the 17th century. In 1467, King Le Thanh Tong named this area "Thien Tru Pagoda." With the development of successive kings, Huong Pagoda became an important pilgrimage site. After many reconstructions, the Huong Pagodacomplex we see today was completed, with remarkable architectural works, especially under the abbotship of high-ranking monks in the 20th century.

3. Structure of the Complex

Huong Pagodaconsists of four main areas:
• Hương - Thien Area: Includes Thien Tru Pagoda (Outer Pagoda) with a three-story bell tower and Huong Tich Cave (Inner Pagoda) known for its magnificent stalactites and the "Nam Thien De Nhat Dong" entrance.
• Thanh Huong Area: Includes Thanh Son Pagoda and Huong Dai Cave.
• Long Van Area: Includes Long Van Pagoda, Long Van Cave, Cay Khe Cave, and Thanh Hoa Cave.
• Tuyet Son Area: Includes Bao Dai Pagoda, Ngoc Long Cave, Ngu Tri Pagoda (Fish Pagoda) , and Trinh Phu Yen Temple.

4. Journey to Explore Huong Pagoda

• Ben Duc: The starting point of the journey, where tourists board boats along Yen Stream. The stunning natural scenery with majestic mountains and lush green rice fields will create relaxing moments.
• Yen Stream: About 4 km long, it is the waterway leading to the relic complex. The name "Yen" symbolizes luck and peace.
• Trinh Temple: Dedicated to the god General Quan Tu Ma Hung Lang, it serves as a place to "introduce" and prepare spiritually before entering the main pagodas.
• Thien Tru Pagoda: Known as the "Heaven's Kitchen" of Huong Son, it is the center of the complex. The pagoda stands out with its majestic architecture, solemn Buddha statues, and Vien Cong Stupa. • Inner Pagoda: The most sacred pagoda, dedicated to Buddha Shakyamuni and various deities. It is an unmissable destination for prayers.
• Huong Tich Cave: Famous for its mystical stalactite system and the majestic statue of Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva. Huong Tich Cave is dubbed "Nam Thien De Nhat Dong" and is a holy praying site for millions of Buddhists.

5. Legend of Huong Pagoda

Huong Pagoda is associated with the legend of Ba Chua Ba – Princess Dieu Thien, who practiced Buddhism and became a Buddha on Buddha's birthday. This story not only shows revenge for Buddha but also reflects the blend of Buddhism and the worship of the Mother Goddess in folk culture.

6. Huong Pagoda Festival

The Huong Pagoda Festival, held from the 6th day of the Lunar New Year until the end of the third lunar month, is one of the largest festivals in Vietnam. It is an occasion for millions of Buddhists and tourists from all over to make pilgrimages, offer incense, and participate in spiritual rituals. Additionally, the festival features folk cultural activities like Cheo singing, lion dancing, and sky lantern releasing, creating an atmosphere that is both sacred and vibrant.

7. Cuisine at Huong Pagoda

Huong Pagoda not only stands out for its scenery and spiritual value but also offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy local specialties like vegetables, forest bamboo shoots, sticky rice candy, rice cake. ... With the distinctive flavors of the mountainous region, these dishes add to the allure of the trip.

8. Spiritual Significance and Cultural Value

Huong Pagoda is not just a pilgrimage site but also a symbol of the harmony between humans and nature. The site combines Buddhism with the worship of the Mother Goddess, reflecting the profound philosophy of Vietnamese life. The Huong Pagoda complex has also been recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

9. Conclusion

Huong Pagoda is not only a tourist destination but also a spiritual journey that helps individuals find peace in their souls, connect with nature, and embrace traditional values. May this pilgrimage become a beautiful memory in your journey of exploring Hanoi.

Opening Hours: 6:00 AM - 6:00 PM daily
Entrance Fees:
• Scenic tour ticket (Trinh Temple - Thien Tru Pagoda - Huong Tich Cave route): 80,000 VND/person
• Boat ticket (Trinh Temple - Thien Tru Pagoda - Huong Tich Cave route): 50,000 VND/person
• Boat ticket (Tuyet Son, Long Van routes): 35,000 VND/person
• Free for: Special-class wounded soldiers and children under 1.1 meters, under 10 years old.

Cable Car Ticket Prices:
• Adults: 150,000 VND/one-way ticket, 220,000 VND/round-trip ticket
• Children under 1.2 meters: 100,000 VND/one-way ticket, 150,000 VND/round-trip

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