“Why ‘Temple of the Ladies’?” a visitor once asked. Láng Temple is also known as Pagode des Dames. It is a Buddhist temple with a rich history. Láng Temple stands in Láng village of Đống Đa District in Hanoi. This temple is not just a religious site. It is a testament to Vietnamese culture and history.
Emperor Lý Anh Tông built Láng Temple. It happened in the 12th century. The temple honors the Buddhist monk Từ Đạo Hạnh. Láng Temple’s story is deeply intertwined with this monk’s legacy.
Legend says that Từ Đạo Hạnh was reincarnated. He was the son of Sùng Hiền hầu, a noble. Sùng Hiền hầu was the younger brother of King Lý Nhân Tông. King Lý Nhân Tông had no children. Thus, Sùng Hiền hầu’s son became King Lý Thần Tông. Because of this, King Lý Anh Tông built the temple. He dedicated it to his father and Từ Đạo Hạnh. Từ Đạo Hạnh was believed to be his father’s previous life.
Láng Temple is one of the temples with the most statues in Hanoi. It has nearly 200 statues. These include statues of Khuyến thiện, Trừng Ác, and the Nine Great Heavenly Kings. Also represented are the Eighteen Arhats.
Láng Temple has undergone several renovations. Major ones occurred in 1656, 1901, and 1989. Sadly, these restorations mean few ancient architectural details remain. The oldest surviving stele dates back to 1656. Nguyễn Văn Trạc, a Doctor of Literature, wrote its inscription.
The temple’s architecture is a sight to behold. The outermost gate has four square pillars. It features three curved roofs. The middle roof is taller than the others. This design resembles the gates of royal palaces. Above the gate, a large horizontal lacquered board reads “Thiền Thiên Khải Thành”.
Inside, a Bat Trang brick courtyard leads to the three-entrance gate. Ancient trees line the path. They lead to the third gate. Between the second and third gates, an octagonal house stands. It houses a statue of Từ Đạo Hạnh. From here, one can access the main structures. These include the main hall, incense burning house, and corridors.
Láng Temple was once considered the foremost among Thăng Long’s temples. Its harmonious architecture and airy space contributed to this reputation. Láng Temple’s festival takes place on the seventh day of the third lunar month. This day celebrates the birth of Từ Đạo Hạnh. During the festival, Từ Đạo Hạnh’s palanquin is carried to Hoa Lăng Temple. Hoa Lăng Temple is where his parents are worshiped.
Láng Temple follows the “Tiền Phật, Hậu Thánh” style. This means it honors both Buddha and saints. Uniquely, locals offer alcohol and meat to Từ Đạo Hạnh. This is because he is both a monk and a village saint. People say “Remember the seventh day of the third month. Return to the Láng festival, then to the Thầy festival.”
Though renovated over time, Láng Temple retains its spiritual essence. It remains a cultural treasure in Hanoi. The temple’s history is rich. It represents Vietnam’s enduring cultural identity. Take a moment to appreciate the serene beauty and historical significance of Láng Temple.