In the heart of Hanoi, the One Pillar Pagoda (Chùa Một Cột) stands as one of Vietnam’s most iconic and spiritually meaningful landmarks. Emperor Ly Thai Tong ordered its construction in 1049 after he dreamt of meeting a bodhisattva on a lotus. The pagoda features a unique wooden temple rising from a single stone pillar in the center of a lotus pond.
The Symbolism Behind the Design
The lotus-inspired design symbolizes purity and enlightenment in Buddhism. According to legend, the emperor dreamt of receiving a lotus flower from a bodhisattva while meditating. This dream led him to create a pagoda that resembles a blooming lotus, demonstrating his devotion and spiritual vision.
What to See at One Pillar Pagoda
🛕 The central temple: a serene wooden structure used for worship
🌸 Lotus pond: symbolizing purity and tranquility
📸 A perfect photo spot: especially during the early morning or golden hour
🧘 Nearby Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Ba Dinh Square for a full historical tour
How to Visit there
You’ll find the pagoda on Chua Mot Cot Street, next to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum. Travelers can easily reach it by bus, taxi, or on foot from central Hanoi. Signs and maps clearly guide visitors to the site. Many tour operators also include it in historical sightseeing routes. Arrive early for a peaceful experience before the crowd comes in.
Visitor Tips
🕘 Opening hours: 8 AM – 5 PM daily (except during major holidays)
🧥 Dress modestly out of respect for the religious site
🙏 Silence and mindfulness are encouraged during visits
💡 No entry fee, but donations are welcomed
Conclusion
Although the One Pillar Pagoda appears small, it offers a powerful experience of Vietnam’s spiritual and architectural traditions. Every traveler to Hanoi should take time to explore this cultural gem — a symbol of enlightenment standing tall on a single pillar.