Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue is a destination that leaves a lasting impression on countless visitors. It is a place where beauty in architecture, history, and culture converge, further enriched by the serene and understated demeanor of Hue’s people. Thien Mu Pagoda holds many historical stories that are waiting to be explored. Pocket the following information to make your trip even more complete!
When traveling to Hue, visitors will experience a place that best preserves the essence and beauty of the nation’s culture. Among the many sites, Thien Mu Pagoda is considered the “soul” of this land. It’s a must-visit check-in spot when exploring the former imperial capital. Let’s uncover the fascinating and unique aspects of this 400-year-old sacred pagoda together!
Table of Contents
1. Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue
Where is Thien Mu Pagoda? Also known as Linh Mu Pagoda, Thien Mu Pagoda is located on Ha Khue Hill in Kim Long Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province. It sits on the northern bank of the Perfume River, approximately 5 km west of Hue’s city center. With its picturesque scenery, it has become an unmissable stop for visitors exploring the ancient capital.
According to historical records, Lord Nguyen Hoang—the first lord of the Nguyen dynasty in southern Vietnam—was credited with building this pagoda. In 1601, as part of his preparations to expand and secure his territory, Lord Nguyen Hoang and his troops rode along the Perfume River. He stumbled upon the sight of a small hill rising beside the green waters of the river, resembling a dragon turning its head. This inspired him to establish the pagoda on this site.
At the same time, local villagers shared a story about an old woman dressed in red, with a kind and benevolent face. Each night, she would climb Ha Khue Hill and tell people that a true lord would one day establish a pagoda here to safeguard the region’s spiritual energy. Seeing the connection between his own vision and the tale, Lord Nguyen Hoang immediately ordered his soldiers to construct a pagoda on the hill. The pagoda was named “Thien Mu Tu,” meaning “Heavenly Lady Pagoda.”
Over time, the pagoda has undergone several renovations. The most notable restoration took place in 1710 during the reign of Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu. He completed and modified much of the architecture of Thien Mu Pagoda. A particularly significant addition was the casting of a Great Bell (“Dai Hong Chung”) weighing over 2 tons, which was placed in the main sanctuary, the Dai Hung Shrine.
To this day, the pagoda remains worthy of its title as the “First Ancient Pagoda.” It is not only a sacred spiritual site but also a stunning attraction in the imperial capital. In addition to exploring various destinations in Hue, selecting a comfortable place to stay and recharge after each leg of your journey is something you should also consider.
2. How to get Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue?
2.1. Route to Thien Mu Pagoda
To admire the majestic view of Thien Mu Pagoda standing by the Perfume River, start from the Imperial City of Hue. Take Dang Thai Than Street, then turn left onto Yet Kieu Street. Continue for a short distance and turn left onto Le Duan Street. At the roundabout, take a right onto Kim Long Street. Drive for another 2 kilometers, and you will arrive at your destination.
2.2.Travel to Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda is located near Hue’s city center, making it easy to choose from various transportation options
Tourism in Hue is well-developed, offering plenty of transportation services to choose from, such as:
- Ride a Motorbike: Most tourist attractions in Hue are not too far apart. Renting a motorbike allows you more flexibility in planning your destinations and schedule. You can rent a motorbike by the day from your hotel, with rental prices ranging from 80,000 to 150,000 VND/day.
- Taxi: Since the pagoda is only 5 km from the city center, taking a taxi to Thien Mu Pagoda is also a great option. It’s both affordable and time-saving. Be sure to check taxi fare rates in Hue beforehand to avoid overpaying.
- Dragon Boat: You can take a boat from Toa Kham station go directly to Thien Mu Pagoda, about 30mins along Perfume River.
3. What to Explore at Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue
3.1. Admiring the Serene and Picturesque Scenery of the Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda is located on the tranquil banks of the Perfume River, exuding a peaceful and poetic beauty. From afar, visitors can spot the ancient pagoda resembling a giant turtle carrying an old tower on its back. The majestic pagoda reflects on the romantic waters of the Perfume River, creating a uniquely poetic and enchanting atmosphere. Stepping into this space feels like entering a heavenly realm, bringing a sense of calm and serenity to the soul.
The pagoda is surrounded by lush pine trees, ornamental plants, and elegant lotus ponds. The fragrant scent of lotus flowers fills the air. Leaving behind the hustle and bustle of life, visitors here are greeted only by the sound of slow footsteps, the gentle rustle of falling leaves, the occasional clear and resonant sound of a bell, or the rhythmic tapping of the wooden mokugyo (fish-shaped drum) in the main hall. Together, these elements create a sacred and meditative Buddhist atmosphere.
The tranquil and poetic scenery of Thien Mu Pagoda captivates visitors, making them linger, reluctant to leave.
3.2. Admiring the Ancient Architecture of Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda showcases a harmonious blend of ancient architecture and serene natural surroundings. The structures within the pagoda complex feature traditional Vietnamese design elements, such as intricate carvings, tiled roofs, and elegant layouts that reflect the cultural and historical significance of the site. Each part of the pagoda tells a story of its rich past, making it a perfect destination for history and architecture enthusiasts.
The painting of “Thien Mu” offers a poetic and lyrical quality from every angle, constantly surprising you with its beauty. Let’s explore the unique architectural features and the picturesque landscape here, which have been immortalized in countless books and songs!
3.3. Đại Hùng Hall
Located in the main sanctuary of Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue, Đại Hùng Hall is dedicated to worshiping the Buddha of Happiness, Metteya (or Maitreya), who embodies carefree joy. The statue of Metteya is carved with a gentle expression, large, wise ears, a big belly symbolizing tolerance, and a warm, compassionate smile. The hall is entirely constructed with solid cement, and its wooden elements are painted to give a sense of familiarity and closeness.
In addition to displaying the statue of the Laughing Buddha, Đại Hùng Hall also houses a large wooden plaque dating back to 1974 and a beautifully crafted bronze bell shaped like the sun and moon. Inside the hall, there is a shrine with a central statue of the Three Buddha Sakyamuni (Triphala Buddha). On the left side is the statue of Bodhisattva Manjusri, and on the right side is the statue of Phố Hiến. Notably, the area at the far end of Đại Hùng Hall is the burial site of Venerable Thích Đôn Hậu, the abbot of the pagoda.
3.4. Phước Duyên Tower
Phước Duyên Tower is a must-see landmark when visiting Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue. This structure is located just beyond the entrance gate. Although situated at the front, Phước Duyên Tower is considered the “soul” of the pagoda. The tower, together with other buildings in the complex, forms a unique and cohesive architectural ensemble that carries the distinct cultural flavor of Hue.
Phước Duyên Tower was built in 1844 by King Thiệu Trị. Initially, it was named Từ Nhân Tower, but later changed to its current name. At the time of its construction, materials such as clay, Thanh stone, and Bat Trang ceramics had to be transported from outside the area to complete the tower.
Phước Duyên Tower – A Must-Visit Check-in Spot When Visiting the Pagoda (Photo: Collected)
The body of Phước Duyên Tower is constructed from brick, while the base is made of Thanh stone. Together, these materials form an octagonal tower that gradually narrows as it rises, with a total of 7 floors, each 2 meters tall. The design of each floor is identical and painted in pink. Over the years, the tower has accumulated the marks of “time,” further enhancing the architectural value of the ancient capital.
3.5. The Tomb of Venerable Thích Đôn Hậu
Venerable Thích Đôn Hậu was a renowned abbot at Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue. He dedicated his life to the development of Buddhism in Vietnam. He was also highly respected by the local people for his numerous charitable activities. Upon his passing, the local community and temple authorities buried him beneath the tower at the far end of the pagoda grounds as a tribute to the revered monk.
3.6. Địa Tạng Hall
This building is located right behind Đại Hùng Hall. The scenery here offers a sense of tranquility and calm. In front of the hall, there is a large courtyard with lush greenery and a refreshing pond. This will undoubtedly be an interesting stop during your exploration of Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue, and one you should not miss.
When visiting Địa Tạng Hall, don’t forget to show your respect to the Buddhas enshrined here.
3.7. Tam Quan Gate
This is the main entrance to the pagoda, located behind Phước Duyên Tower. The gate has three pathways, symbolizing the three realms: Human, Ghost, and Divine. The gate is designed with two levels and eight roofs. On the second level of the central gate, there is a statue of the Buddha. The roof features intricate carvings of unique floral patterns. On either side of the pathways, statues of the Dharma Protectors stand guard.
3.8. Listening to Tales of the Rumored Curses Surrounding Thien Mu Pagoda
The formation and development of Thien Mu Pagoda in Hue are intertwined with many mystical legends passed down through generations. Among these, the tale of “a cursed love” stands out.
The story tells of a couple deeply in love in the area. Unfortunately, the prevailing mindset of that era did not permit a young man of humble origins and no wealth to marry a noble lady from an esteemed family. The couple faced this very dilemma, and their love was met with fierce opposition from the woman’s family. Heartbroken, they decided to end their lives by jumping into the Perfume River together. They believed, “If we cannot live together, we shall die together.” However, only the young man passed away, while the woman was swept ashore and rescued by locals.
Over time, the woman’s heartbreak began to heal, but the young man continued waiting for her in the afterlife, never seeing her again. Consumed by anger, his spirit is said to have entered Thien Mu Pagoda. Since then, a rumored curse has circulated: “Any couple who visits this place will not have a happy ending.”
To this day, the curse has not been “broken,” adding to the pagoda’s mystique and sacred reputation. However, when asked about this legend, the abbot clarified that this tale was fabricated to discourage couples from exploiting the temple’s secluded corners for inappropriate behavior, which could disturb its sanctity and tranquility. Thus, the curse is entirely untrue. Still, visitors must be respectful and maintain decorum to preserve the pagoda’s beautiful image and cultural value.
4. Tips for Visiting Thien Mu Pagoda
To make your trip more complete, keep the following tips in mind:
- Attire: When visiting Thien Mu Pagoda or any temple, always choose modest and respectful clothing. Avoid wearing short dresses or revealing outfits, as this is considered inappropriate for a sacred site. Opt for colors that complement the pagoda’s tones—they’ll look great in photos too!
- Speech: The serene and quiet atmosphere of the pagoda can easily be disrupted by loud laughter or chatter, making you stand out in an unflattering way among other visitors. So, try to maintain silence, avoid pushing, and ensure a respectful environment.
- Bring Water: There are no food or beverage stalls within the pagoda grounds. Bring your water bottle and some light snacks. Remember to dispose of trash in the designated areas.
This guide has provided information about Thien Mu Pagoda and what to explore there, ensuring an unforgettable experience during your visit to Hue.
Opening Hours and Entrance Fee
If you’re planning a budget for your trip to Hue and are unsure about the entrance fee for Thien Mu Pagoda, there’s no need to worry! The pagoda is open to visitors and Buddhist devotees every day of the week at no cost, allowing everyone to explore and enjoy its serene beauty.
- Opening Hours Open all day
- Entrance Fee Free
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