Quán Thánh Temple
Quán Thánh Temple
Quán Thánh Temple
Quán Thánh Temple
An ancient 11th-century Taoist temple protecting Hanoi from the north and housing one of Vietnam's largest bronze statues.
Hanoi
Geomantic Temple
Cultural Tourism
Quán Thánh Temple is a significant Taoist complex erected in the early 11th century under Emperor Lý Thái Tổ. According to geomantic principles, it was part of a system of four sacred temples guarding the capital in all cardinal directions. The place is notable not only for its history and legends about the deity Tran Vu, but also for its outstanding examples of 17th-century Vietnamese casting art.
- Visit duration
1–2 hours
- Average budget
from $5
- Admission
10,000 ₫
- Current
26 °C, clear
- Best months
Sep – Oct
- Local language
Vietnamese, English
What you need to know
Quán Thánh Temple is dedicated to the Taoist deity Tran Vu, patron of the northern direction and the water element. The main treasure of the complex is a massive bronze statue of Tran Vu nearly 4 meters high, cast by master Trùm Trọng in 1677. The interior is decorated in the traditional Nguyễn dynasty style with characteristic roof ornaments depicting mythical dragons. In addition to the statue, it houses ancient bells, valuable texts, and parallel sentences from the 17th–18th centuries. The temple is located at the picturesque intersection of Quán Thánh and Thanh Niên streets near the shore of West Lake.
This period features the most comfortable climate for walking around Hanoi, unlike the hot summer months.
On site
- How to get there
Buses 14, 33, 50
- Accommodation
Hotels in Ba Đình district
- On site
Walking distance from Trúc Bạch Lake
- Cash
Required for donations
- Connectivity
4G, Wi-Fi available
- With kids
Free for children