Pho Quang Pagoda: An 800-year-old treasure in the heart of Long Bien.

Discover Pho Quang Pagoda, an 800-year-old ancient temple in Long Bien district, Hanoi, with its unique architecture, precious statues, and rare tranquil atmosphere.

An 800-year-old tranquil space

Located in Viet Hung ward, Long Bien district, Pho Quang Pagoda, also known as Tinh Quang Pagoda, is one of the oldest temples in Hanoi . With a history spanning approximately 800 years, the pagoda is an important spiritual destination and an architectural heritage site bearing the mark of time, offering a peaceful space isolated from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Pho Quang Pagoda

Traditional architectural hallmarks

Phổ Quang Pagoda is built on a spacious plot of land nearly 5,000 square meters, surrounded by many trees, creating an airy and cool atmosphere. The overall architecture of the pagoda reflects the traditional style of pagodas in the Northeast region of Vietnam, with the main structures arranged harmoniously.

Exquisite texture and carving

The main structure of the pagoda is built in the shape of the Vietnamese character "Đinh," comprising five front halls and three main halls, all covered with traditional Vietnamese tiles. The pagoda's frame is constructed in the characteristic "stacked beam and bracket" style. The architectural details are exquisitely carved with familiar images from ancient Vietnamese sculpture, such as dragon heads, tiger faces, and cloud patterns. Despite undergoing numerous renovations due to historical upheavals, the pagoda has retained its traditional artistic features.

Pho Quang Pagoda

Precious Buddha statues

One of the special highlights at Pho Quang Pagoda is its unique collection of sculpted statues. Although not numerous, each statue is a valuable work of art, showcasing the talent of ancient artisans.

• Statues of Ananda and Kasyapa: Considered the two most beautiful statues in the temple, they are about 1 meter tall, with oval faces, straight noses, and harmonious features.
• The Three Buddhas Statue: Representing 3,000 Buddhas in the three periods of past, present, and future, reflecting the artistic style of the 19th century.
• The Amitabha Buddha statue: Approximately 1.2m tall, it is distinguished by its three-layered lotus pedestal with finely carved petals and the topknot symbolizing boundless wisdom.

In addition, the temple also houses other statues such as the statues of Encouraging Goodness, Punishing Evil, the Venerable Master, and the Mother Goddess, contributing to a solemn and rich worship space.

Pho Quang Pagoda

Spiritual destinations and festivals throughout the year.

Phổ Quang Pagoda is not only a historical site but also an important center of religious activity. Many locals and tourists come here to worship and pray for health and peace. Every year, the pagoda organizes many major Buddhist activities, attracting a large number of Buddhists to participate.

• Lantern Festival: The 15th day of the first lunar month.
• Buddha's Birthday: The 15th day of the 4th lunar month.
• Vu Lan Festival: The 15th day of the 7th lunar month.
• Hạ Nguyên Festival: The 15th day of the 10th lunar month.

Information you need to know when visiting

Location and how to get there

Phổ Quang Pagoda is located in Group 3, Viet Hung Ward, Long Bien District, about 15km from the center of Hanoi. From the Hoan Kiem Lake area, visitors can cross the Chuong Duong Bridge, then the old Duong Bridge, turn right, and travel along the Duong River dike for about 2km to reach Tinh Quang village; the pagoda is located right at the foot of the dike.

Opening hours and admission tickets

The temple is open daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM and there is no entrance fee. On the 15th and 1st days of the lunar month, the temple will be open from early morning until late evening to serve the worship needs of locals and tourists.

Important notes

To maintain the solemnity of the sacred space, visitors to the temple should note the following:

• Dress politely and modestly.
• Maintain order, speak softly, and avoid making noise.
• Maintain general cleanliness and do not litter.
• Do not pick flowers or break branches without permission within the temple grounds.
• Turn off your phone's ringer or switch it to silent mode when entering main temple areas.

Source: https://baolamdong.vn/chua-pho-quang-net-co-kinh-800-nam-giua-long-long-bien-399530.html