1. Basic information about Ba Mu Temple
1.1. Address, opening hours and tickets
- Address: No 675, Hai Ba Trung Street, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province
- Opening hours: all-day
- Ticket price: Free
Ba Mu Temple is one of the long-standing historical sites in Hoi An, playing a significant role in the spiritual life and beliefs of both locals and tourists. It preserves the essence of ancient architectural art, showcasing the unique cultural heritage of Hoi An residents. The temple serves as a place where the community’s spiritual and cultural traditions are celebrated and maintained, reflecting the diverse influences that have shaped Hoi An’s history and identity.
1.2. History
Ba Mu Temple, originally known as Cam Ha Cung and Hai Binh Cung, is a historic site in Hoi An. Renamed for simplicity, it has been a significant spiritual center for locals and visitors alike. The temple features two significant palaces: Cam Ha Palace, dedicated to Baosheng Dadi and his 36 generals, and Hai Binh Palace, devoted to Mazu and the 12 Midwives.
Built in 1626 and moved to its current location, the temple underwent major restorations in 1848 and 1922. Despite much of it being destroyed over time, only the entrance gate remained. Recognizing its cultural value, Hoi An city restored the three-gate entrance from 2016 to 2018. This effort garnered significant attention due to the temple’s ancient architecture, making it an impeccably beautiful photo backdrop, particularly for traditional ao dai.
2. Unique architecture of Ba Mu Temple, Hoi An
Ba Mu Temple is a new attraction featuring an open space with a lake, flower beds, trees, lawns, walking paths, a lighting system, and public toilets, all designed to ensure a comfortable visit for tourists in Hoi An. The three-gate entrance architecture has been meticulously restored to its original state, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the intricate architectural details.
The three-gate entrance to Ba Mu Temple showcases Vauban tiled architecture, painted in vintage colors that impart an impressive ancient look. Curtains adorn both sides of the wall, enhancing the entrance gate’s beauty. The colors and patterns of the door’s painting are particularly attractive and eye-catching, adding a touch of ancient charm that resonates with the photography trends popular among young people today.
3. Essential tips for a trip to Ba Mu Temple
3.1. Directions to the temple
You have several convenient options to reach Ba Mu Temple from the Hoi An city center. You can rent a motorbike or bicycle, or take a taxi and head towards Tran Hung Dao and Phan Chau Trinh streets, leading you into the old town. Once there, park your vehicle and take a short walk to Hai Ba Trung Street.
If you are starting from Japanese Bridge, a small alleyway will lead you directly to the gate of Ba Mu Temple. This scenic route offers a delightful glimpse of Hoi An’s charm.
3.2. Best time to visit the temple
Since Ba Mu Temple is outdoors, the rainy season is not ideal for visiting. The best time is from February to September. The weather in Hoi An is dry, with golden sunshine and clear blue skies, making it ideal for taking photos and visiting other attractions in town.
For the best photos, visit early in the morning before 10 am or in the afternoon from 3 pm onwards. Sunset shots add a special effect.
3.3. Stunning photo spots
Ba Mu Temple in Hoi An offers several stunning photo spots that are sure to impress any visitor. The three-gate entrance, with its ancient stone wall and intricate patterns, is ideal for capturing the temple’s architectural beauty. Inside, a water pond surrounded by lush grass creates a captivating scene, especially in the evening when lights add a mystical effect. The pond’s surface offers excellent reflection shots, particularly of the entrance, making your photos both unique and memorable.
3.4. Things to see and eat near the temple
After exploring Ba Mu Temple, there are several fascinating places to visit nearby. Just a short walk away is Hoi An Ancient Town, where you can immerse yourself in the charming, historic atmosphere of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the ancient streets, visit the iconic Japanese Covered Bridge, and soak in the blend of different architectural styles.
Hoi An Market is a great place to experience local culture, shop for souvenirs, and sample regional delicacies. For a serene, spiritual experience, visit Phap Bao Pagoda to explore Vietnamese Buddhist traditions.
Exploring and taking photos can build up an appetite, but don’t worry! Right outside the temple gate, you will find the famous Hoi An specialty, mango cake. This unique treat combines sweet and salty flavors, making it a delicious snack to enjoy. Indulging in this local delicacy is a perfect way to end your visit to Ba Mu Temple and its surroundings. Additionally, do not miss out on other delightful specialties like Cao Lau (pork rice noodles), Banh Uot Thit Nuong (grilled pork spring rolls), Mi Quang (Quang noodles), Bun Thit Nuong (grilled pork over vermicelli rice noodles), and Com Ga (chicken rice).
3.5. Extra notes
Here are several things to note when visiting Ba Mu Temple in Hoi An:
- Dress appropriately: Wear polite, discreet outfits that are not too revealing to respect the solemn atmosphere of the place of worship.
- Maintain quietness: Walk lightly and speak softly when visiting and taking photos to avoid disturbing others. Avoid loud laughter and joking to maintain a peaceful environment.
- Be aware of optimal photo times: To capture the most stunning images, the best times to take photos are in the early morning or late afternoon (at sunset).
Ba Mu Temple is a cherished historical and spiritual site in Hoi An, showcasing rich cultural heritage and serene beauty. Known for its intricate architecture, including the iconic three gates and tranquil water pond, the temple offers excellent opportunities for captivating photography and peaceful reflection.
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