Discovering Hanoi's Temple of Literature: A Cultural Gem
Temple of Literature Hanoi, an iconic Vietnam's rich history and cultural heritage that you should not miss when coming to Hanoi city. This ancient complex, originally built in 1070 during the Ly dynasty, was not only a center of Confucian worship but also served as Vietnam's first national university for over 700 years. Today, it remains one of Hanoi's most revered landmarks, attracting visitors from around the world eager to explore its architectural beauty and historical significance. Temple of Literature Hanoi is also a special place to honor excellent students, celebrate festivals and a spiritual spot for pupils to pray for the best examinations.
Temple of Literature Hanoi's Architecture
The Temple of Literature Hanoi spans more than 54,000 square meters and is enclosed by an ancient brick wall. Inside, it features five courtyards, each designed in distinct styles. The entire area is divided into several main parts, which we'll describe next.
The Great Middle Gate - The First Courtyard
This gate features simple architecture with three sections built on a high brick base and a tiled roof. Atop the roof sits a decorative ornament called a "móc" vase, flanked by two fishes. The móc is believed to bring purity and promise good fortune, aligning with traditional beliefs. Thus, the móc vase atop the Great Middle Gate symbolizes ancient aspirations for celestial essence and wisdom, where the finest celestial and scholarly essences converge on this land. The fish reminds us of the legend "fish leaping over the Dragon Gate."
The fish strives to overcome the nine-story waterfall, full of bravery and danger. And when it succeeds, the fish transforms into a dragon. The dragon is a revered creature symbolizing power and nobility, thus the dragon is highly respected.
The image of the fish leaping over the Dragon Gate symbolizes the ancient students, Confucian scholars who are very diligent in studying history and hardworking day and night waiting for the day the festival was opened for the exam to take place to do is successful, changing completely his status. Honor guard received a hall, village welcome home, Important, as the fish also transformed into a dragon, would use all their talents and energies to help the country and the people.
The Pavilion of Constellation - The Second Courtyard
Walking further into the complex, you encounter the Pavilion of Constellation, a serene structure surrounded by lush gardens and reflecting pools. It was constructed in 1805 during the reign of Emperor Gia Long of the Nguyễn Dynasty. This structure was commissioned by Nguyễn Văn Thành, the Governor of the Northern Citadel, featuring a two-story architectural design with eight roofs. The lower level consists of four brick pillars with open spaces in between, while the upper level is built of wood with a tiled double roof, surrounded by wooden balustrades. Each of the four sides of the pavilion has four round windows, symbolizing the rays of the "Khuê" star shining. Above hangs a plaque painted in vermilion with three Chinese characters: "Khuê Văn Các". Surrounding the pavilion are inscriptions in Chinese praising the beauty of culture and literature.
The Well of Heavenly Clarity - The Third Courtyard
In the center of the area lies the Well of Heavenly Clarity (Thiên Quang Well), which means "well of celestial light." According to ancient beliefs, a square-shaped well represents the earth, while the round windows of the Khuê Văn Pavilion symbolize the sky. This signifies that this place gathers the essence of both heaven and earth, emphasizing its role as the focal point of Confucian education in Vietnam.
Facing both sides of the Thiên Quang Well are 82 stelae of Doctors. These stelae commemorate the names and origins of over 1,300 Doctors from 82 examination sessions (81 under the Lê dynasty and 1 under the Mạc dynasty) from 1442 to 1779 (erected from 1484 to 1780). This system of Doctoral stelae is a unique and invaluable collection of stone inscriptions, providing precious historical records of Vietnam's examination system and containing significant cultural values.
All the Doctoral stelae here are placed on the backs of Turtles for three reasons:
Spiritual aspect: The Turtle is one of the Four Sacred Animals: Dragon, Unicorn, Tortoise, and Phoenix.
Historical aspect: The Turtle is considered a national deity (Golden Tortoise Deity).
Biological aspect: Turtles are strong and long-lived creatures. Placing the stelae on the backs of Turtles symbolizes the wish that the names and achievements of the Doctors will endure over time. This inspires admiration and aspiration in contemporary and future generations to cultivate virtue, diligence in studying, aiming for their names to be inscribed on stone stelae, affirming the importance of talents for the prosperity of the country. It also reflects the nation's reverence for the wise ancestors of the nation.
The Gate to Great Success - The Fourth Courtyard
Passing through the Gate to Great Success, visitors can admire its intricate architectural details and marvel at the symbolism of passing through to achieve one's ambitions and aspirations.
At the sides of the Gate to Great Success are two smaller gates called Kim Thanh and Ngọc Chấn. Kim Thanh echoes the prestige of gold, while Ngọc Chấn resonates with the prestige of jade. Beyond the courtyard stands the Bái Đường Hall, consisting of nine sections supported by 40 roof pillars, topped with tiled roofs in the architectural style of the late Lê and early Nguyễn dynasties. On its roof are two dragons flanking a moon, while below are intricate wood carvings from the Lê period depicting beautiful cloud dragons with swords. Also here are a pair of bronze cranes, symbolizing the harmony between heaven and earth, with the crane standing on the back of a turtle.
The Grounds of Imperial Academy - The Fifth Courtyard
The final courtyard of the Temple of Literature in Hanoi is the Imperial Academy Grounds, unique in being the only part of the temple built on two floors. On the ground floor, visitors encounter a statue of the renowned Vietnamese educator Chu Van An. Here, they can also explore displays depicting the Confucian education system of Vietnam's feudal dynasties through various pictures and artifacts.
The second floor is dedicated to honoring three monarchs—Ly Thanh Tong, Ly Nhan Tong, and Le Thanh Tong—who played pivotal roles in the development of Van Mieu Hanoi. Their contributions have ensured the preservation and continuity of Vietnam's educational traditions for centuries.
Exploring the elegance of these five areas within the Temple of Literature offers a profound insight into Vietnamese culture and history.
Temple of Literature Hanoi's Open Hours and Entrance Fee
The Temple of Literature is open daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Entrance fees are 70.000 VND (equivalent to 3 USD). Guided tours in various languages are also available, providing deeper insights into the history and significance of this cultural treasure.
What You Should Know Before Visiting Temple of Literature Hanoi
Before visiting, it's advisable to wear comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for walking. Respectful attire is appreciated, as the temple remains an active site of worship. Additionally, consider visiting during quieter hours to fully appreciate the tranquility and beauty of the surroundings.
Hanoi Night Tour to Temple of Literature
For a truly enchanting experience, consider a night tour to the Temple of Literature. Lit up against the night sky, the temple takes on a magical ambiance, offering a unique perspective on its architecture and history. Guided tours during the evening hours provide a different atmosphere and often include cultural performances or storytelling sessions, adding depth to your visit.
The Temple of Literature Hanoi is not just a historical site but a living testament to Vietnam's enduring commitment to education, culture, and spirituality. Whether you visit during the day or embark on an evening tour, this iconic landmark promises to leave a lasting impression on all who wander through its sacred halls.
