VietnamHanoiA Guide to One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi

A Guide to One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi

When traveling to Vietnam, seeing the One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi seems to be a highlight of cultural destinations. It is considered to be one of the most unique pagodas in Asia, with a design that resembles a lotus flower, rising from the center of a square-shaped pond.

Brief History of the One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi

The One-Pillar Pagoda was built by Emperor Ly Thai Tong in his 26th year of ruling. The legend has it that the Emperor was a man without children. After a dream of meeting “Quan The Am Bo Tat”, the Goddess of Mercy, Ly Thai Tong married a young peasant girl and had a son. As a way of expressing his gratitude, he ordered the construction of a pagoda in 1049.

a guide to one pillar pagoda lotus shape
One-Pillar Pagoda looks like a growing lotus flower

The One-Pillar Pagoda is made from wood on a single stone pillar, which creates the shape of a lotus blossom and has been renovated several times, most recently in 2013. It serves as a symbol of Hanoi and remains one of the city’s most popular attractions in a beautifully tranquil garden setting.

Location of the One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi

Located in the city center, within the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, the One-Pillar Pagoda can easily be found. 

Address: 2 Hung Vuong Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
Opening hours:
7:30 AM – 10:30 AM (Tuesday to Thursday)
7:30 AM – 11 AM (Saturday and Sunday)
Close on Monday and Friday
Entrance fee: Free

Find top-rated hotels in Ba Dinh District:

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A Guide to One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi: Local Tips

Wear Politely

Like visiting any other pagodas in Vietnam, you should cover your chest, shoulders, and legs. Carrying a scarf is recommended. See more at Clothing Etiquettes in Vietnam for Foreign Visitors.

a guide to one pillar pagoda dress code
The regulation is well-stated in these signs

Follow the Instructions

a guide to one pillar pagoda security check
Before getting inside, everyone needs to go through a security check
a guide to one pillar pagoda how to get there 2
Visitors making their way to the Pagoda

Pack Lightly

You don’t need to bring much to the One-Pillar Pagoda. Just your camera for taking pictures, umbrellas in case of rain, and spare changes of clothes if needed.

a guide to one pillar pagoda shops and souvenirs
There are several small shops where you can buy snacks and drinks
a guide to one pillar pagoda benches
You can take a small break on these benches
a guide to one pillar pagoda hochiminh museum
Ho Chi Minh Museum is also in the Mausoleum Complex

Check out our Full Guide to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi

A Guide to One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi: Summary

To enjoy the tranquil side of Hanoi, there’s no better place than the One-Pillar Pagoda. Should any difficulty arise during your trip, don’t hesitate to ask locals around, they surely are the friendliest people when it comes to that!

Find more fun experiences in Hanoi:

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