*Note: There is a pagoda in Thuong Tin District that also goes by the name Phap Van. This article is about the one in Hoang Mai District.
1. An overview of the history of Phap Van Pagoda
Phap Van Pagoda is a famous temple in Vietnam and one of the oldest pagodas in Hanoi. It is located at 1299 Giai Phong Street in Hoang Mai District.
The exact time of the temple's construction remains a mystery. According to old inscriptions, the last renovation occurred during the reign of King Thanh Thai, which was over 100 years ago. In 2010, to commemorate the 1,000th anniversary of Thang Long - Hanoi, the pagoda was renovated again, enhancing its majestic beauty.
As its name suggests, the pagoda is dedicated to Phap Van, one of the four deities in Vietnam's traditional belief system. These deities include Phap Van (God of Cloud), Phap Vu (God of Rain), Phap Loi (God of Thunder), and Phap Dien (God of Lightning). They represent a blend of Buddhism with the local beliefs.
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2. The cultural significance of Phap Van Pagoda
In addition to being a place of Buddhist worship, this pagoda holds many cultural values, which are reflected in its intricate sculptures and murals with deep spiritual meanings. These works celebrate the profound beauty of Vietnamese decorative arts. Phap Van Pagoda is also an important cultural center, contributing to the solidarity of the local community. It is associated with the dissemination of Buddhist teachings, providing spiritual education and inner peace to visitors.
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3. Things to do on your visit to Phap Van Pagoda
3.1. Witness the grandeur of the triple-arched gate
Upon arriving at the pagoda, visitors will be impressed by a majestic triple-arched gate, with its three-tiered structure, curved roof, and carvings of dragons and phoenixes. A large bronze bell hangs at the topmost level of the gate. It is only open during the time of festivals. On regular days, visitors will enter the pagoda through the side entrance on the left.
3.2. Admire revered statues at the main hall
After crossing a spacious courtyard lined with large trees, visitors will enter the main hall, where they can admire numerous impressive Buddha statues. The largest statue is placed in the highest position, surrounded by other statues symbolizing human thoughts and desires. They illustrate how people seek refuge in Buddhism for peace amidst life's chaos. In front of the main hall are striking statues of Buddha Shakyamuni, Amitabha Buddha, and Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, among others.
3.3. Visit sacred worship house
After exploring the pagoda's Buddha statues, visitors can visit the ancestral worship house and the Mother Goddess worship house to offer incense and pray. These are the two main worship areas in Phap Van Pagoda, providing a solemn atmosphere with several ancient statues, some over a hundred years old. The ancestral worship house is also a spacious venue for ceremonies and community events.
3.4. Experience culture through traditional ceremonies
Phap Van Pagoda often hosts traditional ceremonies such as peace-praying ceremonies, full-moon ceremonies, and special ceremonies during Tet. The temple also conducts retreats where people can learn about culture and practice mindfulness in a sacred setting. Some retreats include the Pink Lotus Retreat, Youth Retreat, and Green Phap Van Retreat.
4. How to get to Phap Van Pagoda on your trip to Hanoi?
Located about 20 kilometers away from Hanoi's city center, this pagoda is easily accessible within 30 minutes by various means of transport, such as motorbikes, taxis, or buses.
If you have rented a motorbike and are departing from Hoan Kiem Lake, make your way to Ba Trieu Street. Follow it all the way to the end, where you will turn right onto Dai Co Viet Street. Stay on this street (don’t take the tunnel) and turn left at a large intersection onto Giai Phong Street. Go for about 5 kilometers and make a U-turn at the Phap Van - Cau Gie intersection. Another 200 meters and Phap Van Pagoda will be on your right.
If you are unfamiliar with Hanoi's roads, taking a bus or taxi is recommended for safer travels. Some bus routes that pass by the pagoda include 08ACT, 16, 21B, 28, 29, 36CT, and E06.
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5. Where to go near Phap Van Pagoda in Hoang Mai, Hanoi?
After visiting Phap Van Pagoda, you can explore nearby attractions, such as:
- Tu Ky Pagoda: Located just 600 meters away from Phap Van Pagoda, this pagoda has a history of over 300 years. Featuring a blend of traditional and modern architecture, it is also associated with revolutionary activities during Vietnam's struggle for independence.
- Yen So Park: Located 1.7 kilometers away from Phap Van Pagoda, Yen So Park is a green lung of Hanoi, offering free entry. At this grand park, you can camp, have a picnic, organize BBQs, and enjoy the fresh air amidst the beautiful scenery of trees and lakes.
6. Important notes while visiting Phap Van Pagoda
Here are some tips for visiting sacred sites in Vietnam, including Phap Van Pagoda:
- Maintain a respectful and sincere demeanor when praying
- Avoid standing in the center of the main hall
- Dress neatly and modestly. Avoid wearing bright or revealing clothing
- Speak softly. Don’t use offensive language
- Only burn incense outside the pagoda
- Protect the environment by not littering
- Avoid posing inappropriately for photos
Phap Van Pagoda is a gem among Hanoi pagodas, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's bustle. Its rich history, impressive architecture, and serene atmosphere make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the spiritual side of Hanoi.
In addition to cultural sites, Hanoi offers many destinations for entertainment. Among the most prominent is Ocean City, which is located to the east of Hanoi. Here, you can enjoy endless fun with friends and family at VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park, which offers all sorts of water games to cool off. You can also enjoy the sparkling scenery, dine, shop, and have fun in the vibrant complex of Grand World.
To conveniently explore Ocean City, visitors should stay at StaynFun, the first homestay system of Vinpearl - Vietnam's leading hospitality service provider. StaynFun offers a variety of rooms with full amenities at affordable prices.
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