Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple, also known as Temple of the Jade Mountain, is a must-visit attraction in Hanoi, Vietnam. Located on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake, the temple is surrounded by the scenic beauty of nature and rich history. This essay will discuss everything you need to know about Ngoc Son Temple.
Basic Facts about Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple is on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake, in the heart of Hanoi's old quarter. The temple is easily accessible by foot or by taxi from any part of the city. The temple is open every day from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, visiting the temple in the morning is advisable to avoid the crowds. The entrance fee to the temple is VND 30,000 (approximately USD 1.3). The fee is reasonable considering the temple's historical significance and cultural value of the temple.
Ngoc Son Temple is in the heart of Hanoi’s old quarter, home to many other tourist attractions. Some popular Vietnam tourist attractions around the temple include the Water Puppet Theatre, St. Joseph's Cathedral, and the Dong Xuan Market.
The Construction of Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple was built in the 18th century during the reign of King Le Trung Hung. The temple was initially named Ngoc Son Pagoda. It was built to honor Tran Hung Dao, a famous Vietnamese general who led the resistance against the Mongol invasion in the 13th century.
The construction of Ngoc Son Temple
Over the years, the temple underwent several renovations and expansions. The most significant renovation took place in the 19th century, during the reign of King Tu Duc. During this renovation, the temple was expanded, and several new structures were added, including Thê Húc Bridge, which connects the temple to the mainland.
History Of Ngoc Son Temple
The history of Ngoc Son Temple is closely tied to the history of Hoan Kiem Lake. According to legend, in the 15th century, a local fisherman found a sword in the lake, which he presented to Le Loi, the king of Vietnam. The sword was believed to have belonged to a heavenly turtle that helped the king defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty.
Le Loi returned the sword to the lake, and the turtle returned it to the heavens. The lake was then renamed Hoan Kiem Lake, which means "Lake of the Restored Sword." Ngoc Son Temple was built on a small island in the lake to honor the legendary turtle.
The Significance Of Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple is an important cultural and historical site in Vietnam. The temple is dedicated to worshiping several significant figures in Vietnamese history, including Tran Hung Dao, a national hero, and scholar Van Xuong.
The temple is also significant because of its association with the legend of the heavenly turtle. The story of the turtle and the sword is an essential part of Vietnamese folklore and represents the resilience and determination of the Vietnamese people.
What To Tour Ngoc Son Temple
The time required to tour Ngoc Son Temple depends on the visitor's interests and pace. A typical visit to the temple takes about 1-2 hours, but visitors who wish to explore the temple's many halls, chambers, and structures in detail may require more time.
There are many best things to do in Hanoi. Visitors to Ngoc Son Temple can explore the various structures and artifacts inside the temple complex. The temple has several halls and chambers dedicated to a specific deity or historical figure. Visitors can also see the preserved remains of a giant turtle, which is believed to have been a companion of the legendary turtle.
You can get to Ngoc Son Temple through Thê Húc Bridge.
Another highlight of Ngoc Son Temple is Thê Húc Bridge, which connects the temple to the mainland. The bridge is a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture, providing stunning views of Hoan Kiem Lake.
How To Get Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple is located in the heart of Hanoi's old quarter and is easily accessible by foot or taxi. Visitors can also take a cyclo (a traditional Vietnamese three-wheeled bicycle) or motorbike taxi to the temple. There are several entrances to the temple complex, and visitors should follow the signs to the main entrance.
Notice
Visitors to Ngoc Son Temple should dress appropriately and respectfully, as it is a place of worship. This means covering shoulders and knees and avoiding revealing clothing. Visitors should also remove their shoes before entering the temple buildings, as is customary in Vietnamese culture.
While exploring the temple complex, visitors should be mindful of the fragile artifacts and structures and avoid touching or damaging them. Visitors should also be aware of their surroundings and follow the instructions of the temple staff.
Conclusion
Ngoc Son Temple is a cultural and historical gem in the heart of Hanoi's old quarter. The temple's rich history, beautiful architecture, and association with Vietnamese folklore make it a must-visit attraction for tourists and locals alike. Visitors to Ngoc Son Temple can immerse themselves in the culture and history of Vietnam and gain a deeper appreciation for this beautiful country.
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