Ha Noi
Bach Ma Temple: A Testament to Hanoi’s Rich Spiritual History
15
Sep
Sep
One of the oldest and most revered landmarks in Hanoi that you shouldn’t miss is Bach Ma Temple. Nestled in the bustling Old Quarter, this temple holds a rich history dating back to the 9th century and is deeply intertwined with local legends, including the famous tale of the White Horse. As a symbol of the city’s spiritual heritage, Bach Ma Temple offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore traditional Vietnamese architecture and religious practices. For an in-depth guide and tips on visiting, check out vietnamdope.com to plan your cultural journey through Hanoi.
1. Discovering Hanoi’s Ancient Bach Ma Temple
- Location: 76 Hang Buom Street, Hanoi Old Quarter
- Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM – 8:00 PM daily
- Entry Fee: Free
- Dress Code: Modest clothing that covers shoulders and legs
In the sea of temples scattered across Hanoi, Bach Ma Temple is remarkable as the city’s oldest temple, built during the 11th century under the reign of Emperor Ly Thai To. This ancient structure, dedicated to the revered deity Long Do, is one of the four sacred temples that guarded ancient Thang Long (modern-day Hanoi) from malevolent forces. Alongside Quan Thanh, Kim Lien, and Voi Phuc temples, Bach Ma Temple plays a vital role in the spiritual protection of the city, serving as the protector of the East.
The temple has deep historical roots, not only due to its architecture but also its legends. Long Do, the deity worshipped here, was instrumental in thwarting the mystical powers of the Chinese mandarin Cao Bien. Every year, the Bach Ma Temple Festival is held on the 12th and 13th days of the second lunar month, celebrating the enduring influence of Long Do.
Historically, during the Lunar New Year, emperors and mandarins visited the temple to offer prayers for national peace and prosperity. This tradition is still upheld today. Pilgrims flock to Bach Ma Temple on the first and full moon days of each lunar month, especially during Tet, creating a sacred and bustling atmosphere.
Recognized for its profound cultural and historical value, Bach Ma Temple was officially listed as a national historical relic in 1986, solidifying its place as a cultural cornerstone of Hanoi.
2. How to Reach Bach Ma Temple on Your Hanoi Journey
Nestled in the vibrant heart of the Old Quarter, Bach Ma Temple is easily accessible to tourists. If you’re staying in the city center or visiting Hanoi from another part of Vietnam, this historic site is conveniently close to many of Hanoi’s other major attractions.
Walking is often the best way to explore the Old Quarter. From Hoan Kiem Lake, you can reach the temple in just a few minutes. Simply ask your hotel receptionist for an Old Quarter map or use Google Maps to find the quickest route. If you’re a fan of walking tours, you can soak in the energy of the Old Quarter as you make your way to this sacred temple.
For those using a motorbike, head from Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square near Hoan Kiem Lake, follow Hang Dao Street, and turn left onto Hang Buom Street, where the temple stands at No. 76. If you prefer public transport, you can take one of the following bus routes: 01, 14CT, 18, 22A, 34, 18, or 43, all of which stop near the temple.
Alternatively, ride-hailing services like Grab and Gojek offer a convenient and hassle-free way to reach the temple, especially if you’re new to Hanoi.
3. The Fascinating Legend Behind Bach Ma Temple
Bach Ma Temple is steeped in intriguing mythology. This sacred place is dedicated to Long Do, a powerful deity who played a crucial role in shaping the destiny of ancient Hanoi. According to legend, Long Do helped the Vietnamese break the spells cast by Cao Bien, a Chinese mandarin attempting to suppress Vietnam’s development.
The temple itself was first constructed during the 9th century in honor of this deity. However, when Emperor Ly Thai To decided to relocate the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long in the early 11th century, Long Do appeared to him in a dream. In this dream, the deity foretold that a white horse would emerge from the temple and trace the path where the city’s citadel should be built. Following this prophecy, the emperor completed the citadel’s construction without any incidents of collapse, which was attributed to the divine guidance of the white horse.
To honor Long Do and the miraculous assistance, Emperor Ly Thai To moved the temple to its current location and renamed it Bach Ma Temple (White Horse Temple).
4. The Unique Architectural Features of Bach Ma Temple
The architecture of Bach Ma Temple is a beautiful blend of history and symbolism. The exterior of the temple features the impressive “Co Ngu Hanh” flag, with five distinct colors representing the elements of fire, earth, wood, metal, and water—central to Eastern philosophy. Each color on the flag corresponds to a direction, with blue symbolizing the north, white for the west, green for the east, red for the south, and yellow representing the center.
Inside the temple, visitors are greeted by intricately designed roofs adorned with golden dragon sculptures. The antique wooden doors that lead into the temple are striking examples of ancient craftsmanship, with their detailed carvings and solid construction.
One of the most notable interior features is the stunning red lacquer painting, along with the revered statue of the white horse, embodying the legendary spirit of the temple. The temple’s storied past is preserved through its numerous artifacts, including ancient statues, stelae, and ceramics, all of which tell the story of Hanoi’s rich cultural and spiritual journey.
With over a thousand years of history, Bach Ma Temple remains a testament to Hanoi’s resilience and spiritual heritage, standing tall amidst the changes that have shaped the city over centuries.
5. Conclusion
Are you wondering where to experience the true essence of Hanoi’s history and spirituality? Look no further than Bach Ma Temple. This ancient site, with its captivating architecture and timeless legends, offers a profound glimpse into Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or simply seeking a moment of tranquility amidst the vibrant city, Bach Ma Temple provides an unforgettable experience that connects the past with the present
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