One Pillar Pagoda: A Blooming Lotus in the Heart of Hanoi

Amidst the bustling streets of Hanoi, One Pillar Pagoda - a serene architectural gem rises gracefully on a single pillar, resembling a lotus blooming from the water.

Amidst the bustling streets of Hanoi, a serene architectural gem rises gracefully on a single pillar, resembling a lotus blooming from the water. So, what makes One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi unique, and why has it remained one of Vietnam’s most cherished landmarks for nearly a thousand years? Let's find out in the following article.

1. A Brief Introduction to One Pillar Pagoda

Located at Chua Mot Cot Street, Doi Can, Ba Dinh, the One Pillar Pagoda is just 250 meters from Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and around 3 kilometers from Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Due to its central location, getting here is convenient and accessible by various transportation options:

• By Taxi/Grab: A quick and hassle-free way to reach the pagoda, costing approximately 50,000 - 100,000 VND (USD 2 - USD 4) from the Old Quarter.

• By Motorbike: Renting a motorbike costs around 100,000 - 150,000 VND (USD 4 - USD 6) per day. Parking is available near the pagoda.

• By Public Bus: This is an affordable option, with a ticket price of 7,000 VND (USD 0.3) per ride. Recommended bus routes: Bus 22, 16, 32, 09, 34 - Drop-off at Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and walk to the pagoda.

One Pillar Pagoda in Vietnam is located right in the center of the capital, so it is quite convenient for tourists to visit (Source: Internet)

2. The Timeless Legends Of One Pillar Pagoda

The One Pillar Pagoda traces its origins back to 1049, under the reign of Emperor Ly Thai Tong. According to legend, the emperor, who had longed for an heir, dreamt of Guan Yin (the Goddess of Mercy) sitting on a radiant lotus, inviting him to join her. Upon waking, he recounted the vision to his court, and the Buddhist monk Thien Tue advised him to build a pagoda on a single pillar, resembling the lotus throne from his dream, as a tribute to the goddess.

Initially, the temple was built with only one stone pillar supporting a jade tower worshiping the statue of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara (Source: Internet)

More than just an architectural masterpiece, One Pillar Pagoda embodies deep Buddhist philosophy. The lotus-inspired structure symbolizes purity and enlightenment, rising from the muddy waters as a representation of spiritual awakening.

One Pillar Pagoda on Dieulefils postcard (Source: Internet)

For centuries, this pagoda has been a place of prayer, especially for those seeking good fortune, health, and prosperity. Visitors often burn incense and make offerings, believing that their wishes will be fulfilled. 

The pagoda underwent multiple reconstructions over the centuries due to war and natural decay. In 1954, it was destroyed during the First Indochina War but was later restored to its present form. Today, One Pillar Pagoda stands as a revered spiritual and historical landmark, officially recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Site, preserving its legacy for future generations.

One Pillar Pagoda in 2008 (Source: Internet)

3. Architecture of One Pillar Pagoda: The Art of Simplicity

3.1. Three-entrance gate

The Three-Entrance Gate (Tam Quan) at One Pillar Pagoda follows the traditional architectural style of Vietnamese temples and communal houses. It features two tiers and three passageways, symbolizing a spiritual threshold that separates the sacred grounds from the outside world.

In Buddhist philosophy, the Three-Entrance Gate represents three perspectives of perception - Huu Quan (relative view), Khong Quan (absolute view), and Trung Quan (middle view). Walking through this entrance, visitors leave behind worldly distractions and step into the tranquil atmosphere of the pagoda.

When visiting One Pillar Pagoda, people and tourists must pass through the three-entrance gate (Source: Internet)

3.2. Lotus Station (Lien Hoa Dai)

At the heart of One Pillar Pagoda lies Lotus Station (Lien Hoa Dai), an architectural marvel that embodies the image of a lotus blooming from the water. The shrine is built on a 4-meter-high stone pillar (excluding the submerged part), with a 1.2 meters diameter. The pillar consists of two stacked stone sections, seamlessly joined to form a solid structure. 

The main hall of the pagoda is a square-shaped wooden shrine, each side measuring 3 meters in length, with an elegantly curved roof. This design reflects the traditional aesthetics of the Ly Dynasty while symbolizing spiritual purity and enlightenment. The visual harmony between the elevated shrine and the reflection in the pond below enhances the pagoda’s sacred and serene ambiance.

Symbolizing spiritual purity and enlightenment, the lotus-inspired design echoes the legendary dream of Emperor Ly Thai Tong (Source: Internet)

The One Pillar Pagoda is more than just a pagoda - it is the heart of Vietnamese religion and history (Source: Internet)

3.3. Stairways leading to the main hall

Visitors must climb 13 narrow stone steps, about 1 meter wide, to reach the sacred shrine of One Pillar Pagoda. These stairways, dating back to the Ly Dynasty, have remained remarkably intact for centuries, standing as a testament to the pagoda’s enduring legacy.

On both sides of the staircase, brick walls frame the path, featuring stone steles inscribed with historical accounts of the pagoda’s origins and significance. This passageway serves not only as a physical ascent but also as a symbolic journey toward spiritual enlightenment.

13 steps leading up to the main Lien Hoa Dai temple were built during the Ly Dynasty (Source: Internet)

13 steps lead up to the main hall, with eight wooden beams supporting the pagoda in the shape of lotus petals (Source: Internet) 

3.4. Altar and statue of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara

At the heart of One Pillar Pagoda, the altar stands as the most sacred and revered space. Placed at the highest point of Lotus Station, a gracefully crafted statue of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara (Quan The Am Bo Tat) sits atop a meticulously carved wooden lotus pedestal, adorned with gold leaf. Surrounding the altar are flower vases, incense burners, and simple yet elegant offerings, creating an atmosphere of peace and devotion. 

Devotees and visitors often bring offerings such as flowers, incense, and fruit, seeking good fortune, health, and wisdom. The peaceful atmosphere within the shrine enhances its sacred energy, making it a place of deep reverence and prayer.

The altar inside the One Pillar Pagoda (Source: Internet)

3.5. Bodhi tree

Nestled beside the pagoda, the Bodhi tree is a precious gift from India, symbolizing the enlightenment of Buddha Shakyamuni. This sacred tree was a gift from Indian President Rajendra Prasad to President Ho Chi Minh during the latter's visit to India in February 1958. It was propagated from the original Bodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, under which Gautama Buddha attained enlightenment, making it a revered connection between Vietnam and the birthplace of Buddhism.

Standing tall beside the pagoda, the tree adds to the serene and ancient ambiance of the site. Beneath its shade lies a stone stele, inscribed with the tree’s origins and its symbolic significance. For many visitors, the Bodhi tree is more than just a living monument – it is a symbol of wisdom and spiritual awakening. 

This Bodhi tree was planted in 1958, reinforcing the deep historical and cultural ties between Vietnam and India (Source: Internet)

This Bodhi tree symbolizes the ancient friendship between Vietnam and India (Source: Internet)

4. Experiences to Embrace at One Pillar Pagoda

Here are some experiences you shouldn’t miss when visiting One Pillar Pagoda:

• If you visit during special Buddhist holidays, you may witness or even join traditional rituals and chanting sessions.

• Light incense and make a wish for peace, health, and happiness, as many locals and Buddhist devotees do.

• Engage with guides or monks to hear fascinating stories about the pagoda’s origins and its deep spiritual significance.

• Find a quiet spot by the pond surrounding the pagoda, where you can reflect and experience a moment of tranquility.

• Stroll through the peaceful courtyard and green spaces, soaking in the tranquil atmosphere of the temple grounds.

• Combine your visit with other historic landmarks, such as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Hoa Lo Prison, Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. 

• Bring home Buddhist amulets, lotus-themed items, or rosary beads as meaningful gifts for yourself or loved ones.

Many tourists come to One Pillar Pagoda to offer incense and pray for peace (Source: Internet)

5. Tips for Your Visit to One Pillar Pagoda

To make the most of your visit to One Pillar Pagoda, keep these practical tips in mind:

• Dress modestly and respectfully: Wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as this is a sacred site.

• Respect local customs: Maintain silence inside the pagoda and avoid touching religious statues or offerings. Remove your hat and lower your voice when entering the shrine.

• Avoid using flash inside the shrine: Flash photography can be annoying to those around you, so take pictures discreetly without using flash.

• Visit nearby attractions: Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (250m), Hanoi Flag Tower (800m), Imperial Citadel of Thang Long (1km), Hoa Lo Prison (Hoa Lo Prison Relic) (2.4km).

One Pillar Pagoda is a symbol of Vietnam’s rich spiritual heritage and historical resilience. Whether you are drawn by its legendary origins, unique structure, or peaceful atmosphere, a visit to this iconic site promises a memorable cultural experience. Make sure to explore the surrounding landmarks, engage with local traditions, and embrace the serenity that this centuries-old temple offers. 

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