Beneath the open sky, before us stands the serene Ngu Hanh Temple. Its story is intertwined with the elements and the spirit of this land. This temple stands as a testament to Vietnamese culture. It is a place where the past echoes.
Ngu Hanh Son means Mountain of the Five Elements. Emperor Minh Mang named the hills in the 19th century. Each mountain represents an element. They are Kim Son Metal mountain, Thuy Son Water mountain, Moc Son Wood mountain, Hoa Son Fire mountain, and Tho Son Earth mountain.
Legend says that long ago a golden turtle laid five eggs on this shore. When they hatched, the shells became the five mountains. Pink marble marks Water Mountain. White marble identifies Wood Mountain. Red marble signifies Fire Mountain. Water-colored marble represents Metal Mountain. Brown marble symbolizes Earth Mountain.
Once, King Minh Mang visited Ngu Hanh Son. He admired its grottoes and pagodas. He considered it the pride of his southern kingdom. His sister, Princess Ngoc Lan, became a nun here. She sought tranquility within these hills.
Monk Hue Dao Minh was the first Buddhist to meditate here in 1640. Poets found inspiration in these mountains. Their verses are carved into the cliffs. Pagodas honor rulers of the Dinh, Ly, Tran, and Le dynasties. They hold artifacts from centuries past.
Close to Thuy Son is Dong Hai village. Six hundred families chisel stone here. They create statues, jewelry, and artwork. Though direct quarrying is banned, sculptors still work with stone. They bring materials from Quang Nam province. All along the hills, workshops display traditional and modern art.
Visitors find folk statues and chessboards. Sculptures travel across the globe. Artisans work diligently. Their creations reflect Vietnamese heritage. Exploring these mountains brings joy.
Ngu Hanh Temple is a place of peace and artistry. It connects us to legends and history. It is a reminder of Vietnam’s enduring spirit. Take a moment to appreciate the harmony. See the beauty in stone and story. Let the elements guide your way.