Steeped in history and tranquility, Tu Hieu Pagoda is a must-see destination for every traveler to Hue, Vietnam. The centuries-old Buddhist temple, renowned worldwide for its peaceful atmosphere and stunning architecture, provides travelers with an insider’s look at the spiritual essence of the area. The tranquil gardens and old buildings of the pagoda constitute a peaceful landscape perfect for relaxation and contemplation. From its humble beginnings as a place of filial devotion to its association with renowned Zen masters, Tu Hieu Pagoda Hue holds a special place in Vietnamese Buddhist history. Discover the ageless beauty and spiritual charm of this extraordinary destination.
Overview of Tu Hieu Pagoda
Being a former imperial city of Vietnam, Hue is renowned for its rich history, and above all, its ancient pagodas. Among them, the Tu Hieu Pagoda in Hue Vietnam is one of the oldest and most sacred, drawing tourists with its serene beauty and mystical ambiance. Entering this pagoda is like entering a fairy-tale kingdom, where the serene atmosphere and the soft sounds of Buddhist prayers create a deeply serene mood among tourists.
Located in a thick pine forest in Thuy Xuan Commune, Tu Hieu Pagoda is well-placed about 5 kilometers from Hue city center. Its picturesque location makes it a favorite among tourists from within and outside the country who desire spiritual tranquility. Tourists can reach the pagoda by driving along Le Ngo Cat Street, a scenic road that contributes to the excitement of discovering this cultural and historical gem.
The history of Tu Hieu Pagoda
It was in 1843 that Venerable Nhat Dinh constructed a small temple named Thao An Duong to attend to his ailing mother. He was famous for his immense dedication and filial piety, as he trudged fervently 5 kilometers daily to the market to buy food for her.
Despite the fact that his mother was not a Buddhist, she did not follow a vegan diet like he did. As much as monks were instructed to live on strictly vegetarian food, he still kept purchasing meat and fish to be given to his mother. This led to misunderstanding and criticism by people who watched him doing that, tarnishing his image.
When he heard the rumors, Emperor Tu Duc decided to go and investigate. On finding out what was going on, he was impressed by Nhat Dinh’s unflinching commitment to his mother. For filial obedience, the emperor granted the temple its ceremonial name “Sac Tu Hieu Tu,” which later affected the name of the pagoda, “Tu Hieu” which means dutiful son. In 1848, Emperor Tu Duc expanded the humble temple into a grand pagoda, and it became the holy spiritual sanctuary that stands today.
What to do in Tu Hieu Pagoda Vietnam?
Unlike many other dynamic destinations, Tu Hieu Pagoda Hue Vietnam is a great place for calm experiences.
Visit the historic Eunuch Cemetery
One of the most distinctive features of Tu Hieu Temple Hue Vietnam is its eunuch cemetery, dating from the Nguyen Dynasty. The eunuchs served the emperors in the Forbidden City but did not have family or children to care for them when they passed on. Therefore, several of them were saved during their lifetimes to obtain a resting spot at Tu Hieu Pagoda.
Due to this, the pagoda has also been referred to as the “Eunuch Pagoda.” There are around 30 tombs here, and they contribute to the atmosphere of the area being peaceful and somewhat somber. As the graves are not frequently visited, you may burn incense or just pray as a sign of respect.
Relish the traditional Buddhist architecture
Tu Hieu Pagoda Hue expresses traditional Vietnamese architecture with strong Chinese influences, blending nicely into its serene surrounding environment. The entire structure appears to emit tranquility and spirituality, creating a great place for introspection. When entering, visitors pass through a triple-door gate to the front hall, then the central temple, where a Buddha statue is worshiped. Behind the statue, an altar is reserved for previous principal monks of the pagoda.
One of the most striking architectural elements is the three-story tower built in 1896 to house Buddhist texts. The entranceways are arched with curved domes and tiered roofs, showing sophistication in Vietnamese traditional pagodas. Walking along a brick path, you come to the central hall, where a vast semi-circular lake holds a lot of colorful fish. During summer, lotus flowers bloom on the water, wafting their soft fragrance into the air. On the lake stands a covered pavilion, a peaceful retreat where monks can sit and read undisturbed or meditate. A zigzag bamboo bridge adds to the beauty of the picture.
Across the lake lies the Great Hall, with three compartments and a shrine dedicated to Mandarin Le Van Duyet, who was traditionally portrayed riding his horse while holding his sword. Flanking the courtyard are buildings inscribed with the rich history of Tu Hieu Pagoda. 50 meters from the Great Hall is the Eunuch Cemetery, adding to the pagoda’s rich history. Moreover, Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh, a world-famous Buddhist master, chose Tu Hieu Pagoda Hue Vietnam as his final resting place after serving as its chief monk for 40 years.
Immerse yourself in Vietnamese Buddhist traditions
Tu Hieu Pagoda in Hue Vietnam is not just a piece of architectural brilliance but also a center for Buddhist devotion and cultural heritage. The tourists are able to learn more about Vietnamese Buddhism from its antique relics as well as its 4:30 AM, 10 AM, noon, 4 PM, and 7 PM daily chanting sessions. You will not necessarily be able to comprehend the lyrics, but the rhythmic chant is pleasant and meditative.
When you visit special Buddhist festivals, you’ll witness traditional rituals such as incense offerings, praying, and reciting Buddhist sutras. During the full moon, villagers gather at the pagoda for blessings and good fortune, while Lunar New Year welcomes visitors to pack the location where incense is burned and fortune sticks are drawn for advice for the coming year.
Apart from its religious appeal, the scenic beauty of the pagoda location in Hue’s highlands is such that it has become a favorite picnic spot and outdoor destination, particularly for the younger generation. Several visitors also visit the place for meditation classes, enjoying the serene and spiritual atmosphere of this holy site.
Visiting Tu Hieu Pagoda: A complete guide
The Tu Hieu Pagoda entrance fee is free so you can visit here without concern about the price.
The pagoda operates as a Buddhist monastery and remains open 24/7, allowing visitors to come at any time. However, it is recommended to visit between 6:30 AM and 6:00 PM, as the lack of daylight in the evening may limit your ability to fully appreciate its serene beauty.
Some helpful tips for visitors:
- When coming to pagodas, temples, or other religious places in Hue, please be respectful by wearing decent clothes that cover your knees and shoulders. Also, keep calm and do not run or shout. Keep the environment of the pagoda clean by disposing of trash properly and not littering.
- To make the best of your day, organize a day trip including three to four other places beyond Tu Hieu Temple Hue Vietnam in order to witness more of Hue’s cultural heritage.
- If by chance you lose your way, don’t hesitate to ask directions from the people, as they are familiar with the place and are happy to help.
How to get to Tu Hieu Pagoda
Traveling to Tu Hieu Pagoda is convenient, whether you’re coming from Hue’s city center or Phu Bai International Airport. The pagoda is located 5 kilometers from downtown, requiring only about 15 minutes to reach. If you’re arriving from Phu Bai Airport, expect a journey of approximately 20 kilometers, taking around 30 minutes.
Sited on Le Ngo Cat Street, a neat and well-cemented street in the heart of Hue City, the pagoda is quite accessible by road using private automobiles, taxis, or motorbikes. While traveling, clear signboards on the way go directly to the pagoda. If necessary, don’t hesitate to ask the friendly local residents for instructions.
For a leisurely and hassle-free experience, we recommend Hue private car services or a day tour of Hue city, both of which include Tu Hieu Pagoda Hue as one of the included places. Private car services offer door-to-door pick-up, convenient transfers, and the convenience of visiting up to five places within a day, which means you get to utilize your time to the fullest in Hue.
Let Lily’s Travel take you through the marvels of Southeast Asia, making a lifetime of memories. With our established reputation since 2007 and excellent ranking on TripAdvisor, we are specialists in culturally enlivened tours throughout Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia. Our emphasis on multi-religious, multi-ethnic, and multi-regional tours guarantees a profound and realistic knowledge of the region.
Ultimately, Tu Hieu Pagoda is the pinnacle of Hue’s serene beauty and spiritual depth. This ancient pagoda, which sits amidst the natural tranquility and history, is a quiet refuge from the chaos of this modern-day world. The grounds beckon visitors to stroll, explore, and become one with its calming atmosphere, which has enticed pilgrims and visitors for centuries. The long-lasting legacy of the pagoda ensures it is a cherished cultural symbol and place of profound reflection.
Read more: Hieu Village: A Peaceful Destination in the Heart of Pu Luong’s Majestic Nature
