Bạch Mã Temple
Bạch Mã Temple
Bạch Mã Temple
Bạch Mã Temple
The ancient "White Horse" temple, one of the four great guardians of the Thăng Long Citadel.
Hanoi
Temple
Cultural Heritage
The Bạch Mã Temple is not just an architectural monument, but the heart of Hanoi's Old Quarter. According to legend, it was here in 1010 that Emperor Lý Thái Tổ received a sign from a heavenly white horse, which helped him build the impregnable Thăng Long Citadel. This place connects the modern capital with its thousand-year history.
- Visit duration
15–20 minutes
- Average budget
Free
- Admission
Free
- Opening hours
08:00–11:00, 14:00–17:00
- Best months
Oct – Apr
- Languages spoken
Vietnamese, English
What you need to know
The Bạch Mã Temple is among the "Four Guardians of Thăng Long" and symbolizes the east. The architecture reflects the finest traditions of the Nguyễn Dynasty with its characteristic "crab shell" vaults.
What to see inside:
- Statue of the deity Long Đỗ: The local guardian dressed in red robes.
- Statue of the white horse: The sacred symbol of the temple, crafted with gilding and lacquer.
- Ancient artifacts: 15 stone stelae, ritual weapons, bronze vessels, and an exquisite ceremonial palanquin.
The temple is a place of the "harmony of three teachings" (Buddhism, Taoism, and Confucianism), making a visit a unique experience for understanding Vietnamese culture.
On the 12th and 13th days of the second lunar month (March), an annual festival takes place featuring a vibrant procession through the Old Quarter and traditional games such as human chess.
On-site
- Getting there
Taxi, Grab, or walking from the center
- Dress code
Modest clothing (shoulders and knees covered)
- Parking
Limited, best near the edges of the street
- Cash
Essential for donations
- Connectivity
4G/Wi-Fi in the Old Quarter
- With kids
Ok for ages 6+