Dau Pagoda is one of the oldest Buddhist sites in Vietnam, with a history stretching back nearly 2,000 years. Located in the spiritual heartland of the Kinh Bac region, this pagoda is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the country’s Buddhist roots.

1. Overview of Dau Pagoda, Bac Ninh

Dau Pagoda, also known by other names like Ca Pagoda, Co Chau Tu, Dien Ung Tu, and Phap Van Tu, is considered the oldest Buddhist temple in Vietnam. It is located in Tri Qua Ward, Bac Ninh Province (formerly Thanh Khuong Ward, Thuan Thanh Town). As one of the earliest centers of Buddhism in Vietnam, this pagoda is a place of deep spiritual significance. Its unique architecture and historical background also make it a meaningful destination for both Buddhist followers and tourists.

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2. The long-established history of Dau Pagoda

Dau Pagoda traces its origins back to the 2nd century during the time of Shi Xie - the governor of the region who had a major role in bringing Buddhism into Vietnam. Back then, the area around the pagoda, known as Luy Lau, was one of the earliest hubs of Buddhism in the country. It welcomed monks from both India and China who came to teach and translate Buddhist scriptures.

One of the most notable monks here was Khau Da La, who shared Buddhist teachings with the local people. He was also known as the father of Man Nuong, a legendary figure linked to the Four Dharma worship (Phap Van, Phap Vu, Phap Loi, and Phap Dien), which holds a special place in Bac Ninh’s spiritual life.

Through many dynasties, Dau Pagoda went through several restorations. During the Tran Dynasty, it was expanded significantly. The Nguyen Dynasty later added more architectural features while continuing to preserve the temple’s traditional character. In recognition of its deep historical and cultural value, Dau Pagoda was recognized as a Special National Heritage Site in 2013.

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3. Things to explore at Dau Pagoda

Dau Pagoda showcases traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture. Its layout follows the shape of the Chinese character “工”.

Dau Pagoda in Bac Ninh is a significant heritage site

3.1. Triple-arch gate

The entrance of Dau Pagoda features a triple-arch gate known as tam quan. This gate is built with a wooden frame supported by four rows of sturdy columns. The roof structure has interlocking beams and elegant curves. Every wooden piece is carefully smoothed and tightly joined. The gate is topped with a tiled roof, and its three open arches allow air and light to flow through, giving a welcoming impression right from the start.

3.2. Front chamber

The front chamber of Dau Pagoda, also called the ceremonial hall, has seven main sections and two wings. It features a tiled roof with gracefully curved edges, a wooden frame, and a traditional roof structure. Most of the wooden parts are finely polished and tightly fitted together. While the structure is mostly simple, the central beams are decorated with stylized floral carvings. Inside, the space is arranged with tables and chairs.

3.3. Hoa Phong Tower

Standing in the middle of the courtyard is Hoa Phong Tower, one of the most striking features of Dau Pagoda. This tower is made of well-fired bricks and has three levels, standing about 15 meters tall.

The first level is 4.5 meters high, with each side measuring 6.75 meters wide. All four sides have arched doorways. The second level is slightly smaller, with each side measuring 6.15-meter wide and also have the same arched entrances on each side. The top level is a dome built with bricks, shaped like a royal canopy. At the very top sits a sculpture shaped like a nectar vase.

Inside the tower, visitors will find a wooden altar dedicated to the Four Heavenly Kings, covered in lacquer and standing 1.6 meters tall. Above the altar hangs a bronze bell and gong. In front of the western staircase are two stone squirrel statues. To the left is a stone sheep statue, which is believed to reflect the influence of Chinese culture during the rule of Shi Xie.

The beauty of Dau Pagoda is influenced by Chinese culture

3.4. Front hall

The front hall of Dau Pagoda sits slightly lower than the upper hall. It measures 9.5 meters wide, 21 meters long, and 0.37 meters high. The structure includes seven main sections and two wings.

The roof is supported by eight sets of wooden beams in a traditional style known as cau dau, tru, noc, con, tien ke, hau bay. These beams rest on 32 wooden columns that hold the entire frame. Many of the beams, brackets, and supports are decorated with beautiful carvings of cloud and leaf patterns, the four sacred animals, the four seasons, and stylized geometric motifs.

At the front of the hall, a set of three steps spans across the middle five sections. The central steps feature two stone rails, each carved with dragon designs. These rails are about 2.15 meters long and 0.65 meters tall, created in the artistic style of the Tran Dynasty. In the front hall, there are altars dedicated to several important figures in Vietnamese Buddhism.

3.5. Incense pavilion

The incense pavilion connects the front hall to the upper hall. It stretches 9.4 meters in length and 5.55 meters in width. The roof is supported by four sets of wooden frames, each resting on four columns. Inside, there are altars dedicated to the Ten Kings of Hell, Mac Dinh Chi, and Prince Jeta - an important figure in Buddhist history.

3.6. Upper hall

The upper hall of Dau Pagoda is built on a raised foundation and has a rectangular layout, with a main section and two wings. The structure includes four sets of wooden beams and features four curved, upward-sweeping roofs. A highlight of the upper hall is the preservation of two gia chieng roof frames. Between them is a carved bo de leaf design showing a pair of dragons facing the sun, along with two side pillars.

The traditional architecture of Dau Pagoda

3.7. Valuable woodblocks

Dau Pagoda houses a collection of 107 original woodblocks. These engraved wooden plates are the only known set of their kind, offering deep insight into Vietnamese Buddhism.

The woodblocks cover a wide range of content, including legends and stories about the Four Dharmas, Buddhist scriptures, prayers for rain or sun, and ceremonies honoring the temple’s spiritual founders. Each has a rectangular shape. Some blocks feature carefully arranged illustrations that complement the text, creating a visually balanced layout. All the text is in classical Han and ancient Nom scripts, engraved in reverse to allow for printing. The lines are artistically carved, producing crisp and detailed prints on traditional do paper.

Despite being nearly 300 years old, most of the woodblocks remain in good condition, making them an invaluable cultural and historical treasure.

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4. Guide for visitors to Dau Pagoda in Bac Ninh

4.1. When to visit?

You can visit Dau Pagoda at any time of the year, especially during its annual festival held on the 8th day of the 4th lunar month. The festival is dedicated to honoring Man Nuong and praying for favorable weather and good harvest. It features lively performances, including quan ho folk singing, dragon dancing, and ceremonial drumming. The rituals are equally remarkable, with highlights such as the procession of Phap Van Statue from Dau Pagoda to To Pagoda.

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4.2. How to get there?

Dau Pagoda is located about 30 kilometers away from Hanoi, and the trip takes around 1 hour by car. From central Hanoi, make your way to Vinh Tuy Bridge. Follow the bridge northeast and keep going straight until you see a large interchange. Turn right onto Nguyen Van Linh Road (also known as National Road 5). Keep going, then turn left onto National Road 17. Another 10 kilometers on National Road 17 and you will reach Dau Pagoda.

If you prefer public transport, hop on Bus 204, which runs from Long Bien to Thuan Thanh in Bac Ninh.

Dau Pagoda in Bac Ninh is suitable for a day trip from Hanoi

4.3. What to note?

At the triple-arch gate, enter through the right pathway and exit through the left. Avoid walking through the center pathway.
Dress modestly. Avoid flashy clothing. Do not wear skirts, sleeveless tops, or shorts.
Keep a respectful attitude. Stay quiet. Do not litter.
Do not touch sacred objects.
If you wish to offer something, choose simple items such as flowers, tea, or cakes. Follow the temple’s instructions when lighting incense or placing offerings.

4.4. Where to go nearby?

If you have extra time after your visit to Dau Pagoda, there are several attractions nearby worth exploring:

But Thap Pagoda (~4.2 km away): Known for its peaceful setting, this pagoda houses many national treasures, including the famous thousand-handed-thousand-eyed Avalokitesvara statue.
Kinh Duong Vuong Temple (~5 km away): This temple honors Kinh Duong Vuong, believed to be the first king of Vietnam. It holds great historical and spiritual significance.
Phat Tich Pagoda (~9.8 km away): Located on the slopes of Phat Tich Mountain, this pagoda features a giant stone Buddha statue. It is a popular spot for both worship and sightseeing.

With its centuries-old architecture, Dau Pagoda offers a glimpse into the soul of the Kinh Bac region. Surrounded by historical sites, it is an ideal place to begin - or deepen - a journey through northern Vietnam’s rich cultural landscape.

To make the most of your journey, consider staying at Vinpearl Hotel Bac Ninh. Located in the heart of the region, this hotel offers spacious rooms, fine dining options, and an opulent spa. It is a perfect base to relax and recharge after a day of exploration in Bac Ninh.