Quan Thanh Temple, Hanoi: Exploring a Sacred Heritage Site
Quan Thanh Temple is one of the four sacred and oldest temples in Hanoi. Recognized as a national heritage site of Vietnam, it holds significant historical, architectural, and cultural value. In this article, join SVietnam Travel to explore the history, architecture, and a complete guide on how to visit Quan Thanh Temple.
Introduction to Quan Thanh Temple, Hanoi
Quan Thanh Temple, also known as Tran Vu Temple, is dedicated to Huyen Thien Tran Vu, one of the four deities worshipped to guard the four ancient gates of Thang Long (now Hanoi). These four guardian temples are Bach Ma Temple in the east, Voi Phuc Temple in the west, Kim Lien Temple in the south, and Quan Thanh Temple in the north.
In August 2024, Quan Thanh Temple was officially recognized as a Special National Monument and is one of the most prominent Taoist-influenced heritage sites in Vietnam. It also serves as a place to commemorate heroes and martyrs who sacrificed their lives defending the country. The statue of Tran Vu is considered a unique artistic masterpiece in Vietnam. Initially carved from wood, the statue was recast in black bronze in 1677.
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In addition to numerous ancient bronze artifacts, Quan Thanh Temple features many intricate carvings on doors, columns, ceilings, and over 60 poems and couplets inscribed in Chinese characters. These poetic works were composed by scholars who achieved high academic honors, including poetry by King Minh Mang. The temple is also renowned for its refined and unique wood carvings that embody the distinctive style of the Le Dynasty. The interior impresses visitors with carvings that represent typical Taoist artistic motifs.
Quan Thanh Temple is not only valued for its historical and architectural significance but is also a well-known cultural and spiritual site for the people of Hanoi, both past and present. The temple’s main festival is held on the third day of the third lunar month. Visitors are encouraged to visit Hanoi during Tet holiday to participate in various festival activities at the temple, such as divine writing (giáng bút), dream interpretation (cầu mộng), and prayers for peace (cầu an). Throughout its long history, Quan Thanh Temple has preserved its timeless charm, reflecting the characteristic ancient beauty of Hanoi.
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History of Quan Thanh Temple
Over the centuries, Quan Thanh Temple underwent numerous renovations, each historical period leaving unique marks on its architecture and artifacts. Specifically:
- In 1677, during the reign of King Le Hy Tong, Lord Trinh Tac tasked Trinh Can with renovating the temple. During this restoration, the statue of Huyen Thien Tran Vu was recast in black bronze, replacing the previous wooden one. This bronze statue, created by artisan Vu Cong Chan, is 3.96 meters tall and weighs nearly 4 tons, embodying the majestic and sacred presence of the deity.
- In 1794, Admiral Le Van Ngu from the Tay Son dynasty commissioned a large bronze bell, enriching the temple’s precious collection.
- In 1822, King Minh Mang, during his tour to the Northern Citadel, renamed the temple “Chan Vu Quan” and engraved this name on the main gate. However, locals continued calling it Quan Thanh Temple or Tran Vu Temple.
- In 1842, during King Thieu Tri’s visit, he bestowed a golden bracelet upon the statue as a sign of reverence to Huyen Thien Tran Vu, the temple’s guardian deity.
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Architecture of Quan Thanh Temple
The temple’s architecture comprises several structures: the main gate (tam quan), front hall (tiền đế), central hall (trung đế), ceremonial courtyard (sân bái), and rear sanctuary (hậu cung). All structures follow traditional Chinese architectural styles.
Visitors are initially impressed by the temple’s external gate, designed with four phoenixes facing outward, crowned with meticulously carved mythical creatures called “nghe”. Additionally, the gate pillars feature carvings of carp transforming into dragons and tigers descending mountains, symbolizing strength and perseverance.
Beyond the main entrance lies the two-story, three-door tam quan gate, a notable highlight showcasing the integration of traditional Vietnamese beliefs with the Indian deity Rahu carved prominently.
Beside the tam quan gate stands a bronze bell commissioned by King Le Hy Tong in 1677. Following this is an area dedicated to stone steles, and behind it is the shrine honoring martyrs who fell defending the area around the temple.
The ceremonial courtyard is used for arranging offerings, while the rear sanctuary meticulously displays information about deity Huyen Thien Tran Vu, flanked by carvings of dragons and tigers. The statue of Tran Vu remains a remarkable testament to the exceptional skills of ancient Vietnamese bronze-casting artisans.
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Visiting Quan Thanh Temple
Quan Thanh Temple is located at the intersection of Thanh Nien Street and Quan Thanh Street, centrally situated close to Hanoi’s Old Quarter and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. You can reach the temple using personal transportation, such as motorcycles or cars, or via bus routes 14, 33, and 50.
Additionally, Quan Thanh Temple is a featured stop on the Hanoi City Tour double-decker bus, which offers an enjoyable sightseeing experience. Alternatively, cyclo services are available, but be sure to negotiate the fare beforehand.
Opening Hours and Ticket Prices:
- Daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
- On the 1st and 15th of the lunar month, the temple is open from 6:00 am to 8:00 pm.
- On Lunar New Year’s Eve, the temple remains open throughout the night.
Ticket Prices:
- Adults: 10,000 VND per person
- Free entry for children
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Nearby Attractions
After visiting Quan Thanh Temple, visitors may also explore nearby landmarks such as:
- Ba Dinh Square (Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum): 2.6 km away
- Kinh Thien Palace: 2.8 km away
- Hang Dau Water Tower: 2.8 km away
- One Pillar Pagoda: 2.9 km away
Visitor Tips:
- Dress respectfully when entering the temple.
- Maintain silence within the temple grounds.
- For a quieter experience, visit on weekdays and avoid major holidays or the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month, as these times attract many visitors.
- Do not touch or damage historical artifacts.
- Follow photography guidelines and avoid filming in sacred areas.
- Keep the temple area clean and avoid littering.
With its deep historical roots, unique architecture, and profound cultural significance, Quan Thanh Temple is undoubtedly a must-visit destination in Hanoi. For more detailed advice and the best deals, contact the travel experts at SVietnam Travel.
