Mao Dien Temple of Literature
Văn Miếu Mao Điền
Mao Dien Temple of Literature
Văn Miếu Mao Điền
The second most important Temple of Literature in Vietnam, erected in honor of great scholars and educators.
Hai Duong Province
Temple
Cultural Tourism
The Mao Dien Temple of Literature is a historical and cultural complex of special national importance, located in Hai Duong Province. This site served as a training center for scholars in feudal Vietnam and today stands as an important symbol of the country's intellectual heritage. Visiting the temple offers a chance to touch the history of education and enjoy traditional Vietnamese architecture in a peaceful atmosphere.
- Visit duration
2–3 hours
- Admission
Free
- Best months
February, August–September
- On-site language
Vietnamese, English
What you need to know
The temple was founded in the 15th century under the Le dynasty. For centuries, it was inextricably linked with education: thousands of future doctors of science studied and took exams here. The uniqueness of the temple is highlighted by the system of 14 doctor stelae, erected in 2017 in honor of 637 laureates of the royal exams from Hai Duong province.
What to see:
- Architectural ensemble: Ancient triumphal gates, the central hall featuring ironwood elements, and the historic bell tower.
- Doctor stelae: Commemorative stones chronicling the careers of prominent scholars of the past.
- Surroundings: The temple is harmoniously integrated into the landscape among rice fields, creating a tranquil atmosphere just minutes away from the busy Highway 5.
The temple is dedicated to Confucius and eight great figures of Vietnamese history, including the physician Tue Tinh, the national hero Nguyen Trai, and the first female laureate of the royal examinations, Nguyen Thi Due.
The best time to visit is during the spring festival (in the second lunar month) or the autumn festival, when solemn ceremonies and cultural events take place.
On site
- How to get there
Car via Highway 5 (40 km from Hanoi)
- Cash
Essential for donations and purchases
- Connectivity
4G, Wi-Fi in cities
- With children
Suitable for family visits