1. Overview of Phuc Khanh Pagoda
Phuc Khanh Pagoda, also known as So Pagoda, is one of the oldest pagodas in Hanoi. Located at 382 Tay Son Street, Thinh Quang Ward, Dong Da District, Hanoi, it serves Buddhist and Mother Goddess worship, honoring many high monks who have significantly contributed to the temple. In 1988, the Ministry of Culture and Information recognized it as a National Historical and Cultural Site.
The pagoda was founded in the late Tran Dynasty and early Primal Le Dynasty (15th century) as a place for Buddhists to practice their faith. During the Revival Le Dynasty, the temple became a famous landmark in the capital. At the end of the 18th century, it was destroyed in the historic battle of Ngoc Hoi-Dong Da. A bell cast in 1796, still housed in the temple, recorded this event and the efforts of the temple's abbot and local people to rebuild it.
The pagoda was destroyed once more during the French colonial invasion. After peace was restored, the temple and local authorities rallied the community to reconstruct the temple, providing a place for people to worship Buddha.
2. Architectural highlights of Phuc Khanh Pagoda in Hanoi
The pagoda features a large architectural scale due to renovations in 1993, 1996, and 1998, including several components: the Tam Quan Gate, the Front Hall, the Upper Shrine, the Ancestor Hall, the Mother Goddess Hall, the Avalokiteshvara Pavilion, the Stupa area, and additional buildings that support the daily activities of the temple and guests.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by the grand two-story Tam Quan Gate, with its bell tower retaining its original classic beauty. The main and two side doors are designed with arch shapes, with the central door twice as large as the side doors. Beyond the gate lies a small garden that provides a serene transition to the Front Hall, which displays the Avalokiteshvara statue with a thousand eyes and hands.
Further inside, several halls are arranged in the shape of the Chinese character “工” (gong). The Front Hall consists of five sections, housing intricately sculpted statues such as the Dharmapala of Encouraging of Good Deeds and Dharmapala of Punishing of Bad Deeds. A plaque inscribed with the Han script “Hoang Kim Dien” (Golden Dragon Hall) symbolizes the temple’s grandeur. The rafters are elaborately carved with motifs of cranes, pine, chrysanthemums, and more.
The Rear Hall includes three sections with statues of the Nine Dragons, Avalokiteshvara, Amitabha Buddha, and a respectful Mother Goddess altar. Behind this is the Ancestor Hall, dedicated to the temple’s past abbots.
3. Precious collection of artifacts in Phuc Khanh Pagoda
Despite numerous historical upheavals, this pagoda still keeps many valuable relics. The temple’s statues, including Avalokiteshvara, Amitabha Buddha, and the Thousand-Eyed, Thousand-Handed Avalokiteshvara, are exquisitely crafted and centuries old.
The temple also preserves three ancient bronze bells and around 21 stone steles, the oldest of which dates back to 1693. Additionally, rare artifacts such as horizontal scrolls, decorative panels, couplets, and incense burners are well-preserved, serving as valuable historical records of the temple's age.
4. Frequently asked questions about Phuc Khanh Pagoda
To ensure a smooth visit to this pagoda, check information on transportation options and the best times to visit.
4.1. How to get to Phuc Khanh Pagoda?
Being centrally located makes traveling to Phuc Khanh Pagoda quite easy. Visitors can travel by car, motorbike, bus, or taxi. Those using personal vehicles can go from Xa Dan Street, turn left onto Nguyen Luong Bang Street - Tay Son Street, and travel along the street until they see the pagoda on the left near the Nga Tu So flyover.
Alternatively, visitors who are unfamiliar with Hanoi’s streets and wish to save costs can take a bus. Numerous bus routes, such as 01, 02, 09B, 16, 161, 84, E09, E01, E04, 19, 104, 24, 27, and 68, stop near the pagoda, with fares starting from 7,000 VND per trip.
4.2. When is the best time to visit Phuc Khanh Pagoda in Hanoi?
Visitors can visit the pagoda at any time of the year. However, to experience the local cultural and spiritual life, it is best to visit during the Full Moon of the First Month and the Full Moon of the Seventh Month of the lunar calendar. The pagoda holds ceremonies for national peace and prosperity, attracting many Buddhists and tourists. Additionally, on the 8th, 15th, and 18th days of the First Lunar Month each year, the pagoda holds star offering ceremonies, offering engaging spiritual activities for visitors.
4.3. What to explore near Phuc Khanh Pagoda?
After visiting Phuc Khanh Pagoda, tourists can explore nearby attractions in Hanoi. Notable nearby sites include:
- Dong Da Mound (900 meters away): Located in Quang Trung Ward, Dong Da District, this historical site is linked to the victory in the 1789 Ky Dau battle against 290,000 Qing invaders, led by King Quang Trung. It features a statue of King Quang Trung and a museum, and it hosts an annual festival on the 5th lunar new year day.
- Boc Pagoda (1 kilometer away): Situated on Chua Boc Street, Quang Trung Ward, Dong Da District, this centuries-old pagoda is known for its unique architecture, ancient statues, and peaceful atmosphere.
- Nam Dong Pagoda (2.5 kilometers away): In Nam Dong Ward, Dong Da District, this pagoda was rebuilt in 1612 and houses notable statues, including the Three Buddhas and Avalokiteshvara from the late 18th century.
Phuc Khanh Pagoda is a timeless symbol of Hanoi's spiritual heritage, offering a peaceful retreat from the city's hustle and bustle. Whether you are a history enthusiast or a spiritual seeker, a visit to this ancient temple provides a glimpse into Vietnam's rich cultural tapestry.
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