Phuc Khanh Pagoda: Discover a Buddhist treasure in Hanoi

Contents

Phuc Khanh Pagoda is a must-visit for anyone seeking historical sites in Hanoi (Source: Collected)

1. Location of Phuc Khanh Pagoda, Hanoi

Phuc Khanh Pagoda, also known as So Pagoda or Thinh Quang Pagoda, is one of Hanoi‘s oldest temples. Situated at 382 Tay Son Street in Dong Da District, this historical site serves as a place of worship for both Buddha and the Mother Goddess, alongside esteemed monks who have made significant contributions to the pagoda. 

Despite being nestled in a densely populated area, Phuc Khanh Pagoda remains a popular place for locals and pilgrims who come to pay their respects and seek blessings. Recognized as a national historical and cultural relic in 1988, the pagoda holds a special place in the hearts of many.

Reaching Phuc Khanh Pagoda is convenient due to its central location at the busy intersection of Nga Tu So. This area is a major hub connecting various districts, such as Ha Dong and Thanh Xuan, to the city center, resulting in a high volume of daily traffic. Visitors can choose from several means of transport:

• By bus: Numerous bus routes, including 24, 01, and 02, pass through this area, with the ticket price at 7,000 VND per ride.
• By motorbike: If you have rented a motorbike and are departing from Hoan Kiem Lake, you can follow this route: Ba Trieu Street – Hai Ba Trung Street – Le Duan Street – Kham Thien Street – Nguyen Luong Bang Street – Tay Son Street. The pagoda is right next to the Nga Tu So overpass, on the right side.

Phuc Khanh Pagoda holds significant spiritual value for the local community (Source: Collected)

2. History of the pagoda

Legend has it that Phuc Khanh Pagoda was established in the beginning of the Early Le Dynasty, serving as a center for teaching Buddhism. By the time of the Revival Le Dynasty, the pagoda had become a renowned landmark of the city. However, it was completely destroyed during the historic Ngoc Hoi – Dong Da battle in the late 18th century. Subsequently, a monk from Tran Quoc Pagoda named Chieu Lien passed by the area, then he was invited by the locals to become the abbot. The community, inspired by Chieu Lien, pooled their resources to rebuild the pagoda, which was gradually restored to its former glory. 

In the French colonial period, once again the pagoda faced destruction. It was later rebuilt by the local authority and people after peace was restored.

3. Highlights of Phuc Khanh Pagoda

3.1. Stunning architecture

The current layout of Phuc Khanh Pagoda is the result of multiple renovations carried out in 1993, 1996, and 1998, encompassing several key structures: the triple-arched gate, front hall, main hall, ancestor worship hall, Mother Goddess worship hall, rear hall, and other facilities for daily activities.

Upon arriving at the pagoda, visitors are greeted by the two-story triple-arched gate, which features a bell on the upper level. It has three doors – a main door at the center and two smaller doors on the sides. Although now partially obscured by surrounding houses, the gate still retains its original beauty. However, it is no longer used as the main entrance of Phuc Khanh Pagoda. Visitors will need to use a side entrance to enter the pagoda.

The intricate architecture of Phuc Khanh Pagoda (Source: Collected)

Beyond the gate lies a small garden leading to the front hall, where a statue of the Thousand-armed and Thousand-eyed Avalokitesvara is displayed. The front hall, consisting of five compartments, houses altars for various deities and features intricate decorations, including a large Chinese calligraphy plaque. The rafters are adorned with elaborate carvings of pine trees, cranes, and chrysanthemum flowers. The rear hall, comprising three compartments, houses numerous statues of Buddhas and Avalokitesvaras. Next to the rear hall is the Mother Goddess worship hall. Behind it is the ancestor worship hall, where statues of the pagoda’s past abbots and other revered Buddhist teachers are venerated.

3.2. Invaluable artifacts

Despite enduring numerous historical upheavals, Phuc Khanh Pagoda still preserves many invaluable artifacts. The statues of Buddhas and Avalokitesvaras here are exquisitely sculpted, with some dating back to the Tay Son period and reflecting the artistic sophistication of that era. The pagoda also houses three large bronze bells and approximately 21 stone steles, the oldest of which dates back to 1693. Additionally, it retains a wealth of other relics such as horizontal lacquered boards, decorative doors, couplets, plaques, incense burners, and ceremonial items. These artifacts are meticulously preserved, providing valuable insights into the pagoda’s long history and making it one of the most famous pagodas in Hanoi.

Phuc Khanh Pagoda is renowned for its well-preserved relics (Source: Collected)

3.3. Special activities

Every year, Phuc Khanh Pagoda hosts numerous ceremonies, particularly during the full-moon days of the first and seventh lunar months, drawing a large number of devotees and visitors. These ceremonies could be put into your next Hanoi itinerary if you are looking for a unique local experience. The most notable ceremony is the “Great Annual Prayer for Peace,” typically held on the 14th day of the first lunar month.

4. Best places to visit near Phuc Khanh Pagoda

After exploring Phuc Khanh Pagoda, you can also visit several nearby attractions:

• Dong Da Mound: Also known as Dong Da Cultural Park, this historical site offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s resistance against foreign invaders.
• Hanoi Museum: This museum houses more than 70,000 artifacts, including bronze drums, jade and ivory artifacts, and 20th-century war memorabilia.

Phuc Khanh Pagoda is not just a spiritual haven; it is also a cultural landmark that embodies the resilience of Vietnamese people. Whether you seek historical insights, architectural beauty, or spiritual tranquility, a visit to this ancient pagoda will leave you enriched and inspired.

After soaking in the serenity of Phuc Khanh Pagoda, you can continue their exploration of Hanoi with a trip to Ocean City, a new urban area located to the east of the city. This vibrant destination offers an exciting array of recreational activities, such as VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park. This sprawling water park complex features a wide range of games, from exhilarating wave pools and water slides to relaxing lazy rivers and kids’ play areas. It is perfect for those seeking thrilling aquatic fun.

VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park has something for everyone

Grand World is another must-see attraction in Ocean City, offering a unique blend of entertainment, shopping, and dining experiences. This complex is known for its lively night market, beautifully themed streets, and spectacular shows that showcase the rich heritage of Vietnam.

After a day filled with excitement, you can unwind at StaynFun, a premier homestay complex in Ocean City. StaynFun offers a comfortable retreat with modern amenities and exceptional services. 

Book VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park ticket now

Book Grand World ticket for a fun-filled trịp in Hanoi

Book StaynFun homestay to explore nearby attractions