Whispers of dragons and phoenixes dance on the wind. Welcome to Chau Long Pagoda a hidden gem nestled in Hanoi’s heart.
Chau Long Pagoda stands proudly on a high mound overlooking Truc Bach Lake. Its history is deeply intertwined with Thang Long the ancient name for Hanoi. This Buddhist temple is not just a place of worship. It is a living testament to centuries of faith and artistry.
The pagoda’s unique D-shape is striking. The front hall welcomes visitors. The back palace houses sacred relics. Eight intricately carved hammock doors guard the inner sanctum. These doors are masterpieces. They feature dragons cups tortoises phoenixes flowers leaves and clouds. The details are breathtaking. They showcase the incredible skill of ancient artisans.
Chau Long Pagoda is more than just beautiful architecture. It is a treasure trove of religious artifacts. Inside you will find 5 front halls 3 mallet rooms and 8 sets of gilded carved hammock doors. There are also 23 statues an altar set horizontal panels parallel sentences and bronze bells all of high artistic value. Two bronze statues are particularly special. One depicts Manjushri riding a green lion. The other shows Pho Hien riding a white elephant. These are rare and incredibly valuable pieces.
The pagoda also houses a towering clay statue of the World-Honored One. There is a bronze Maitreya Buddha and 10 statues of the King of Hell. Each statue has its own unique story. They all add to the rich tapestry of the pagoda’s history. A bronze bell from Vinh Phuc Pagoda adds to the collection. It is a reminder of the pagoda’s many restorations and repairs throughout the centuries.
Beyond the central Buddhist shrine there is a Mother Goddess shrine. Here you’ll find statues of Tam Phu Quan Hoang Lady Thuong Ngan Master Bodhidharma and Bodhisattva Guanyin. Each deity holds a special place in Vietnamese spirituality. The pagoda also includes a Patriarch’s house a kitchen and a monk’s house reflecting a thriving monastic community.
Chau Long Pagoda was significantly restored during the Nguyen Dynasty. This happened in 1808 1901 and 1932. Despite these renovations the pagoda maintains its ancient features. It remains a beautiful sculptural and architectural relic. The pillars and hammock doors continue to impress. The four sacred animals dragon ly quy and phuong are prominently featured. The statue of the newborn Sakyamuni is a masterpiece a truly unique creation. Its height is remarkable. Such statues are rare in Vietnam.
Chau Long Pagoda is a true museum of ancient fine arts. It reflects the incredible talent of generations of artisans. Officially recognized as an Architectural Art Monument in 1994 it continues to captivate visitors with its beauty and spiritual significance. The current Abbot Venerable Thich Thanh Phuc carries on the legacy. He is a member of the Executive Council of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha Central Committee and Deputy Executive Committee of the Hanoi Buddhist Sangha. Chau Long Pagoda is a place where history faith and artistry intertwine. It is a must-see for anyone visiting Hanoi.