1. The History of Quan Thanh Temple

Quan Thanh Temple was built during the Ly Dynasty in the 11th century, around 1010, when the capital of Vietnam was moved to Thang Long (modern-day Hanoi). It was originally constructed to honor the deity Tran Vu, who is believed to be a god of the North and is associated with protection and the removal of evil spirits. Tran Vu is one of the Four Immortals in Vietnamese mythology, revered for his ability to guard the land against dark forces.

The temple's location on the northern shore of West Lake (Ho Tay) holds symbolic significance, as it aligns with the Taoist belief that the North is an important directional axis. Over the years, Quan Thanh Temple has undergone several renovations and expansions, with notable modifications made during the Nguyen Dynasty. Despite these changes, the temple has retained its historical importance and spiritual significance.

One-thousand-year-old relic in the heart of Hanoi (Source: Internet)

2. Discover Highlights of Quan Thanh Temple

2.1. Cong Tam Quan (Triple Gate)

The Triple Gate at Quan Thanh Temple Hanoi is one of the most striking architectural features of the temple complex. This gate plays a significant role both in the temple's design and its cultural symbolism.

It is designed with traditional Vietnamese elements that are commonly found in Taoist temples, including ornate carvings, intricate wooden beams, and roof decorations. These elements help enhance the temple’s mystical and spiritual atmosphere.

The gate is often decorated with divine figures and auspicious symbols, such as dragons, phoenixes, and other mythical creatures, which are important in Vietnamese culture and Taoist beliefs.

The presence of this gate helps prepare the mind and spirit of visitors (Source: Internet)

2.2. Tuong Dong Den (Magnificent black-bronze statue)

The Tuong Dong Den (Magnificent Black-Bronze Statue) at Quan Thanh Temple is one of the temple's most iconic and revered features. This impressive statue represents Tran Vu, the Taoist god of the North, and is a key element in the temple’s religious and cultural significance.

The statue's dark hue comes from the black bronze alloy, which gives it a powerful, imposing presence in the temple's main hall. It is carefully crafted with detailed features, capturing the fierce and protective nature of Tran Vu, the god it represents.

The black-bronze material is not only a testament to the craftsmanship of the artisans but also a reflection of the deity's strong, unyielding nature. The dark color conveys a sense of mystery and power, reinforcing the god's role as a protector.

Tuong Dong Den plays a central role in the spiritual life of Quan Thanh Temple. Worshippers visit the temple to offer incense, prayers, and other offerings to Tran Vu, asking for protection, good health, and prosperity.

2.3. Nha Bia (Stella Pavilion)

Nha Bia is typically characterized by its open design with a roofed canopy and four supporting pillars. This simple yet elegant design makes it stand out as a distinctive feature in the temple complex.

The pavilion is often raised slightly above ground level, offering a clear view of the surrounding temple grounds and the serene waters of West Lake. The structure’s roof is adorned with carved motifs and traditional decorative elements, further enhancing its visual appeal and cultural richness.

The most prominent feature of the Nha Bia is the stone tablet (stella) housed inside the pavilion. This tablet is an important historical artifact that commemorates significant events related to the temple. The stone tablet typically bears inscriptions or historical records in classical Vietnamese script (often in Chinese characters) that chronicle the temple's history, renovations, and the reverence held by local communities.

It is believed that the stella also contains important records of religious and cultural practices related to the worship of Tran Vu (Source: Internet)

2.4. San Bai (Worship Area)

The San Bai is typically located in the main hall, directly in front of the statue of Tran Vu. This arrangement ensures that the worshippers can focus their prayers and offerings on the god in the central area of the temple.

The worship area is often arranged with three main altars: One for Tran Vu and two smaller altars dedicated to other deities or ancestral spirits. This layout reflects the Taoist tradition of honoring multiple celestial beings and spirits.

In the San Bai, worshippers place offerings such as incense, fruit, flowers, and sometimes food (Source: Internet)

2.5. Hau Cung (Inner Sanctuary)

This is the most sacred area of Quan Thanh Temple, considered the heart of the temple, where the spiritual energy is most concentrated, and only priests or designated worshippers are allowed to enter during specific rituals.

Hau Cung is typically a dimly lit area, filled with incense smoke that creates an atmosphere of reverence and solemnity. The space is designed to evoke a sense of divine presence and spiritual elevation, where worshippers can feel close to the deities.

While the Main Hall focuses primarily on Tran Vu, the Hau Cung may hold altars dedicated to other gods, including local deities or spirits that are important to the temple’s specific community. In some cases, the Inner Sanctuary also honors important ancestral figures or other spiritual beings tied to the temple’s traditions.

This space is reserved for the most sacred aspects of the temple’s worship, where the deity is believed to reside in its fullest form (Source: Internet)

2.6. Highlight Activities at Quan Thanh Temple

Taking place annually on the 3rd day of the 3rd lunar month, this lively festival is a time-honored tradition honoring Saint Huyen Thien Tran Vu - the revered guardian of the North. Visitors can witness a series of sacred rituals including the offering of 14 ceremonial trays by local communities, reading of the saint’s legend, incense ceremonies, and grand worship. 

Discover the Mystery of the “Tran Vu Bell Sound” Night Tour 

For a truly unforgettable experience, explore Quan Thanh Temple by night.