Ngoc Son Temple, also called Temple of Jade Mountain, is a renowned religious sight in Hanoi. It attracts visitors thanks to its unique architecture and priceless spiritual values towards the culture and society. You can also come here to enjoy a peaceful ambiance or pray for good fortune in your life and that of your relatives.
To help you have an in-depth understanding of Ngoc Son Temple, Vietnamtour.in will provide a detailed review in this blog. From that, you can get the necessary information, ranging from what to see to opening hours and entrance fees.
The Long-Standing History Of Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple was built under the Ly Dynasty and was originally used to worship a famous Taoist deity, namely Wenchang Dijun, to bring luck and wealth to scholars. Until the 13th century, this temple was dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao – one of the first talented Vietnamese military strategists.
In 1865, Ngoc Son Temple was renovated with additional highlights like Tran Ba Pavillion, Pen Tower, and The Huc Bridge. This makes it one of the most impressive spiritual complexes in Hanoi. Notably, the temple has witnessed a range of significant historical events. In 2013, the Vietnamese Government recognized it as a Special National Relic site.
Location
Ngoc Son Temple lies on Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. More specifically, it is situated on Jade Islet, a hillock Northeast of Hoan Kiem Lake. From the lake, you need to cross The Huc Bridge to reach the temple.
Opening Time And Entrance Fee
The Temple of Jade Mountain is open between 8 AM and 6 PM every day.
Here are the updated entrance fees you can consider for your tour.
- Adults: 1.2 USD/pax;
- Children under 15: Free.
How To Get There
To depart for Ngoc Son Temple, you can use various methods, such as public buses, motorbikes, taxis, or on foot. If you prefer visiting the temple and going to any corner of Hanoi, it’s recommended to hire a motorbike for convenience. On the other hand, you can book a taxi or Grab car to go with a big group.
Additionally, you can consider several available buses that pass by Hoan Kiem Lake, like No. 36, 08, 14, and 31. From the nearby bus stop, it takes about 5 minutes to walk to the Temple of Jade Mountain.
>> You can read: 7 Best Temples In Hanoi: Detailed Reviews 2024
What To See In Temple Of Jade Mountain
Enjoy the stunning beauty of The Huc Bridge
The Huc Bridge is a symbol of the Ngoc Son Temple, attracting visitors with its vibrant red color and unique Buddhist architecture. Indeed, the bridge’s name means “where sunlight beams in the early morning.” Thus, whenever you come here in the morning, you will surely enjoy a wonderful ambiance of full sunshine and cool breezes.
Get the first impressive sight with Nghi Mon Gate
Nghi Mon Gate is the entrance to the main complex of Ngoc Son Temple. It includes 2 columns and walls decorated with dedicated Chinese letters.
Stepping inside, you can see a 28-meter-tall Pen Tower, which was built under the reign of King Tu Duc. On the tower, you will find the words “Ta Thanh Thien,” aiming to express respect for the contributions of Trinh Lords towards Vietnamese literature.
Discover the meaning of Long Mon Ho Bang Gate
Like the Nghi Mon Gate, the Long Mon Ho Bang Gate also has 2 columns and walls on both sides. However, this gate is engraved with more impressive patterns, with a white tiger on the left and a dragon on the right. All things symbolize successful examinations and best wishes to scholars.
Admire the unique architecture of Dai Nghien Gate
On the Dai Nghien Gate, there is an ink pot carved from blue stone. It is said that on the 5th day of the 5th lunar month, when the sun rises, the top of Pen Power casts its shadow on this pot. Besides that, you can see a famous poem on the gate covering only 64 Chinese letters.
Immerse the poetic beauty of Dac Nguyet Lau Gate
Dac Nguyet Lau Gate, also called the “Moon Gazing Pavilion,” features 2-story architecture shaded by an old banyan tree and many surrounding plants. Coming here, you will be attracted by a round window – decorated with the images of dragons and phoenixes. The gate is a place to get an entrance ticket to visit Ngoc Son Temple.
Explore the role of Tran Ba Pavilion in preserving cultural values
Located south of Ngoc Son Temple, Tran Ba Pavilion was constructed to shield against evil cultural influences on the life and tradition of Vietnamese people. It was designed with two layers of roof and eight columns made of wood and stone.
>> Read more: Top 14 Places to Visit in Hanoi: 2024 Updated
Attractions Nearby
- Hanoi Old Quarter: It is an iconic symbol of Hanoi’s Capital, featuring a range of lively streets, historical landmarks, and mouth-watering cuisine. You can come here to find several special souvenirs for your relatives and friends.
- St. Joseph’s Cathedral: This is the oldest church in Hanoi, impressing visitors with unique architecture and priceless historical values.
- Hanoi Opera House: It is one of the most stunning examples of French architecture in Vietnam. Here, you can find classical art shows such as chamber music, ballet, and opera.
- Thang Long Water Puppet Theater: This theater serves audiences with amazing displays of enchanting tales and controlling puppets.
- Dong Xuan Market: It is located on the right of the Hanoi Old Quarter, one of Vietnam’s most long-standing traditional markets. Coming here, you will have a chance to experience the daily activities of the locals.
Tips When Visiting Outstanding Spots In Ngoc Son Temple
- Be respectful to all worshipping areas during your visit time;
- Bring cash to pay for the entrance ticket (credit card is not accepted);
- Wear polite clothing;
- Keep quiet and take off your footwear while visiting inside the worshipping areas;
- Go to local guides for detailed instructions (contact Vietnamtour.in).
Conclusion
Our blog has just provided a comprehensive guide for the tour to Ngoc Son Temple. You can consider our Vietnam tourism packages suggested by local travel experts to have the best preparations for this destination. Wish you have a wonderful trip.
