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Located peacefully in the heart of Hanoi, Bach Ma Temple is not only an ancient architectural work but also a sacred symbol in the beliefs of the Hanoi people. This place is considered one of the four Defense Temples of Thanh Long Citadel, which has significant cultural and historical values. Let's discover the history of formation, architectural beauty, and attractive activities that visitors should not miss when visiting this temple with Asia King Travel!
Bach Ma Temple is a sacred symbol in the beliefs of the Hanoi people. Source: iVIVU
Bach Ma Temple is located at 76 Hang Buom Street, Hoan Kiem District, right in the heart of Hanoi Old Quarter, Vietnam. Due to its convenient location, tourists can easily get here by many different means of transport.
Bach Ma Temple was built in the 9th century under the Ly Dynasty, and it is one of the oldest temples in Hanoi. According to historical legend, Emperor Ly Thai To encountered difficulties in constructing the citadel when he moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long. Every time it was under construction, the wall collapsed.
The sacred ground inside the temple. Source: Saigoneer
As a consequence, the emperor then set up an altar to pray, and the building process was guided by God Long Do, who is worshiped in this temple. A magical white horse appeared, running around the Thang Long Citadel area to map out the construction site. By following the white horse’s hooves, the emperor successfully built a solid citadel wall.
The main worship space of the temple. Source: Crystal Bay
With this event, the temple became a place to worship God Long Do, who is regarded as a crucial god guarding the east of the citadel. The temple is also part of the four Defense Temples, protecting the ancient citadel.
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Although you can visit Bach Ma Temple at any time of the year, the ideal period is in the spring, when there are many traditional events at the beginning of the year. The festival of the temple takes place in March, attracting a large number of holiday-makers to pray for peace. Moreover, you can also visit this attraction in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and admire the ancient beauty of the temple under the gentle sunlight.
When entering the temple, visitors will immediately feel the sacred atmosphere that covers the space. One of the most popular activities is to burn incense to pray for peace, health, and luck. Hanoi people often come here on the lunar new year days or on the first days of January or February to express their respect to God Long Do - the guardian of the capital.
Hanoi people often come here to pray for peace, health, and luck. Source: aFamily
The temple is stunning with its traditional architecture imbued with the style of ancient Vietnamese temples, preserved almost intact over hundreds of years. Right from the entrance, you will see the massive gate with a curved tiled roof, and decorated with sophisticated dragon and phoenix carvings.
The sacred statue of God Long Do in the temple. Source: Migo
Inside the temple, the space has three main spaces: the Front House, the Incense Burning Hall, and the Back House. In particular, the Back Palace is home to the statue of Long Do God and the majestic White Horse Statue, which are the symbols of strength and sacredness.
The floor is paved with ancient Bat Trang tiles, while the roof is covered with traditional yin-yang tiles, giving this place an ancient and solemn look. Red lanterns, incense sticks, and dim light from incense bowls create a mysterious atmosphere, bringing travelers into a quiet, tranquil space in the middle of the bustling town.
The legendary white horse statue. Source: Crystal Bay
Coming to this sacred place, tourists can take time to explore every corner of the temple to admire the works of art, from the majestic white horse statue to the pair of stone dragons winding on the steps.
If you visit this attraction during the Bach Ma Temple Festival (around mid-March), you will have an opportunity to immerse yourself in the bustling festival atmosphere here with traditional rituals such as palanquin procession, worshipping, and Chau Van singing performances. Not only does the festival have spiritual significance, but it is also an occasion for you to learn more about the cultural beliefs of the ancient people of the capital.
Bach Ma Temple Festival has bustling atmosphere with traditional rituals. Source: Tien Phong
After visiting Bach Ma Temple, holiday-makers can continue the journey to explore Hanoi Old Quarter - a place that preserves many historical and cultural values. Walking on the streets, you will see traditional restaurants, handicraft shops, and ancient houses bearing the mark of time. This will be a great activity to feel the simple but attractive beauty of the capital.
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Explore Hanoi Old Quarter will be a great activity. Source: VinWonders
Bach Ma Temple is not only a historical relic but also a cultural symbol and sacred belief of the people of Hanoi. If you are keen on exploring traditional cultural values and admiring ancient architectural works, this place is a destination not to be missed. Plan a trip and come to feel the peace at this ancient temple with Asia King Travel!
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