Red Temple: A sacred ancient temple in Hai Phong

Contents

The Red Temple Hai Phong history dates back to the Ly – Tran dynasties (Source: Collected)

1. Overview of the Red Temple in Hai Phong

The Red Temple, also known as Linh Do Temple, is situated at 9/282 Le Lai Street, May Chai Ward, Ngo Quyen District, Hai Phong City. Built during the Ly – Tran dynasties, it started as a small temple for local fishermen to worship Buddha. During the Tran Dynasty, it served as a logistics hub for the naval battle on the Bach Dang River in 1288. After their victory, Tran Hung Dao provided resources to build a grand temple, and a statue of him was erected there. 

Once, it was one of the most beautiful temples in the country. However, the Red Temple suffered much damage during the wars against the French and Americans.

Read more: Vietnam religions: Get a thorough understanding of the local beliefs

2. Things to do at the Red Temple in Hai Phong

2.1. Explore the unique architecture

The Red Temple features a unique architectural design with three floors and twenty roofs, creating a harmonious connection between the Front Hall, Middle Hall, and Rear Hall. Standing 26 meters tall, the temple is adorned with a 7-story tower in the Front Hall, stylized “lemon flowers” on the roof of the Middle Hall, and a two-tiered wooden roof with a bodhi leaf in the Rear Hall. The façade is made of green stone with dragon and phoenix decorations, reflecting the Ly – Tran dynasties’ artistic style.

The impressive architecture of the Red Temple (Source: Collected)

2.2. Admire the jackfruit wooden statue of Śākyamuni Buddha

One of the most remarkable features of the Red Temple is the statue of Śākyamuni Buddha, prominently placed in the center of the Rear Hall. This statue, made from jackfruit wood, stands as the largest wooden statue in Vietnam. It is 5.5 meters tall, seated on a 2.9-meter high lotus platform adorned with 500 gold-painted lotus petals carved with intricate patterns from the Tran Dynasty.

Adding to its grandeur is the City of Ten Thousand Buddhas situated behind the statue. This impressive backdrop is 11 meters high and consists of 1,111 small gilded Buddha statues, each nestled within Bodhi leaves. Together, they form a border that symbolizes the boundless Dharma world. This symbolic display highlights the temple’s spiritual significance and artistic heritage.

2.3. The diversity of religious activities

The Red Temple is not only a site of architectural beauty but also a hub of diverse religious activities that draw pilgrims and visitors alike.

• Offering incense: This is a quintessential activity for pilgrims visiting the Red Temple. By offering incense to Buddha, visitors pray for success in their work and personal life, seeking blessings and fulfillment of their desires.
• Witness the Hang Thuan Ceremony: The Red Temple, known for its sacredness, hosts the Hang Thuan Ceremony, a unique cultural event significant to the people of Hai Phong.
• Worship on Tet Holidays: During Tet, the Vietnamese Lunar New Year, worshippers flock to the Red Temple to pray for health and luck in the coming year. This tradition is an integral part of the festive celebrations and reflects the spiritual aspirations of the community.
• Celebrating the Birth of Buddha Shakyamuni: On the full moon day of the fourth lunar month, at 4:00 am, the Prajnaparamita bell and drum sound to gather monks and Buddhists for a special celebration. With pure bodies and minds, they convene in the hall to commemorate the birth of Buddha Shakyamuni, following a tradition that has been upheld for many years.

At the Red Temple, praying is a solemn practice (Source: Collected)

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Don’t forget to check out some exciting things to do in Hai Phong!

3. Extra tips for visiting the Red Temple in Hai Phong

3.1. How to get there?

Getting to the Red Temple is straightforward due to its central location. Here are the directions starting from Hai Phong City Opera House:

• Take Tran Hung Dao Street. Go west.
• Turn right onto Hoang Van Thu Street. Go straight.
• Turn right onto Dien Bien Phu Street. Go straight.
• At the roundabout, steer left onto Le Lai Street. Go straight.
• Turn onto Alley 56. The temple will be on the left.

3.2. Essential notes while visiting the temple

• Dress modestly.
• Turn off phone alarms before entering the temple grounds.
• Do not litter.
• Carry cash and drinking water for convenience.

Additionally, consider combining your visit with nearby attractions such as Hai Phong Opera House, Hai Phong Museum, and the Cathedral of the Diocese of Hai Phong to enrich your experience.

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The Red Temple stands out as a must-see attraction in Hai Phong, celebrated for its exceptional architecture and profound spiritual significance. It offers a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the serene spiritual life of the local community.

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