Quan Thanh Temple – A Timeless Heritage of Hanoi
Located near the tranquil West Lake in Hanoi, Quan Thanh Temple is one of the city’s Four Sacred Temples and a treasured relic of Vietnam’s Ly Dynasty. With a history of over 1,000 years, this ancient temple stands as a testament to Vietnamese spirituality, architecture, and resilience.
Built during the 11th century under the reign of Emperor Ly Thai To, the temple is dedicated to Tran Vu, the Taoist God of the North who is believed to protect the nation and ward off evil spirits.
Symbol of Northern Protection and Taoist Beliefs
Quan Thanh Temple is not only a religious site but also a spiritual symbol of northern Vietnam. Legend says Tran Vu assisted King An Duong in building Co Loa Citadel by subduing evil forces.
The temple is part of Hanoi’s “Thang Long Four Sacred Temples”, each guarding one cardinal direction of the old capital. Quan Thanh protects the North, reflecting ancient beliefs in geomancy and divine guardianship.
Unique Architecture and Bronze Statue
Inside the temple, visitors are welcomed by the peaceful courtyard, century-old banyan trees, and ancient stone steles. Its most remarkable feature is the bronze statue of Tran Vu, cast in the 17th century:
Height: 3.96 meters
Weight: Nearly 4 tons
Crafted with detailed armor and a calm yet powerful expression
The statue is a masterpiece of Vietnamese bronze casting, symbolizing strength, patience, and divine protection.
Cultural Value and Visitor Experience
Quan Thanh Temple remains an active religious site where locals and tourists alike come to:
Offer incense
Pray for protection and peace
Explore its spiritual ambiance
Major ceremonies are held during Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) and the Tran Vu Festival on the 3rd day of the 3rd lunar month.
📍 Address: Corner of Thanh Nien Street & Quan Thanh Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi
⏰ Open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM | Entrance fee: modest (~10,000 VND)
Nearby Attractions
While visiting Quan Thanh Temple, you can also explore:
Tran Quoc Pagoda – the oldest Buddhist pagoda in Hanoi, just a few minutes’ walk away
West Lake – Hanoi’s largest freshwater lake, ideal for walking or cycling
Ba Dinh Square and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum – key landmarks of modern Vietnamese history.
Plan your spiritual journey in Hanoi with our Top 7 Temples to Visit in Hanoi guide.