1. Overview about Tu Hieu pagoda
A buddhism city like Hue is filled up excitement for your discovery. Visiting a religion temple is a must-do activity for every traveler. Hue ancient city is famous with over 300 pagodas. Meanwhile, you should not miss out the chance to explore Tu Hieu pagoda which is one of the oldest temples in Hue city.
Built in the 19th century, Tu Hieu pagoda is packed with intricately carved dragon and phoenix images. Additionally, the pagoda boasts classic Hue royal architecture in its pillars, porch, and roof tiles. Thanks to the prime location, you can easy to travel to Tu Hieu pagoda by different transportations such as private cars, motorbikes, taxis or even bicycles.
Especially, Tu Hieu pagoda is where master Zen Thich Nhat Hanh lived and passed a way. A trip to visit is not only learn about buddhism spirits and history, but also learning about the legacy of Thich Nhat Hanh monk who is the buddhism culture influence to the world.
2. Location, entrance fee and openning hours at Tu Hieu pagoda
Being located just few kilometers away from the city center, Tu Hieu pagoda is situated in Duong Xuan village, Thuy Xuan Ward, Thua Thien Hue province. The travel duration takes from 15 – 20 minutes to reach the attraction by cars or motorbike.
Additionally, the openning hours of the pagoda are from 7:30am to 8:00pm daily. You can take note the important time periods to visit.
Especially, Tu Hieu temple welcomes everyone with free of charge. You do not need to purchase the entrance fee to enter this attraction for sightseeing.
3. How to get to Tu Hieu pagoda
For history and culture lovers, Tu Hieu pagoda is a destination that you must not miss when traveling to Hue. This beautiful pagoda is conveniently located just 5 kilometers from the center of the city. You can get there quickly and easily on a motorbike, car, or taxi. Follow Dien Bien Phu until you reach Le Ngo Cat Street, and look out for a signpost guiding you to the pagoda. If you get lost, you can ask locals for directions.
4. History of Tu Hieu pagoda
The stories to build Tu Hieu pagoda is filled with admiration of the monk and Tu Duc king in Nguyen dynasty. According to historical documents, this pagoda is full of interesting stories. It was originally a Thao Am, a hut made of thatch serves as a monastery or a meditation retreat, founded by Zen master Nhat Dinh, who took care of his elderly mother here, who was very ill.
Stories spread that this Zen master crossed steep passes daily with a cane to catch fish and buy meat for his mother. The story eventually made its way to King Tu Duc, who was touched by his filial piety and ordered the pagoda to expand in 1848. It was then renamed “Tu Hieu” in honor of Nhat Dinh’s devotion to his mother—a remarkable example of filial piety in modern times.
According to a stele recording of the construction process of the pagoda, it holds an explanation for its name.
Tu: Symbolizes the great virtue of the Buddha; helping all beings.
Hieu: In the Buddhist sense, it is filial piety, or respect and reverence towards parents.
5. What to see at Tu Hieu pagoda
5.1. Exploring the eunuch graves
The temple will not complete without the dedication and hard-working of eunuch in royal dynasty. Tu Hieu Pagoda is famous for its cemetery, which is full of history and mysteries. Located at the back of the main hall, it holds the remains of 24 eunuchs from the Nguyen Dynasty. Coming to this temple to respect the works of people who devoted their life to build such an amazing temple.
Legend has it that these eunuchs generously donated to expand the pagoda and came here to spend their final days at the request of Zen master Nhat Dinh. Even today, visitors can still see the cemetery, which occupies an area of 1000 m2 and features a table honoring the eunuchs’ contribution.
5.2. Discovering ancient temple and peace atmosphere
Hidden beneath lush green pines, Tu Hieu pagoda is a unique combination of history, architecture, and natural scenery.
Its unique structure includes three compartments, two wings, and a main hall to worship Buddha. In the main hall, visitors may find two Buddha statues: Tam the Buddha and Shakyamuni Buddha, while the backyard contains an altar to worship Le Van Duyet, as well as deities, ancestors, and eunuchs.
When walking the small tree-lined streets to reach it, visitors have an airy space and immerse themselves in tranquility while forgetting the hustle of everyday city life.
5.3. Visit tourist attractions in vicinity
Normally, tourists will spend from 30 minutes to 45 minutes to discover Tu Hieu pagoda. There is plenty time to visit other attractions nearby during a day. While exploring historic landmarks such as Tu Hieu pagoda, you can also find plenty of other interesting tourist attractions in Hue’s vicinity. Let’s take a closer look at some of these places to visit:
- Tu Dam Pagoda is renowned for its long history and ancient beauty. It also played a meaningful role in the campaign to revive Vietnamese Buddhism.
- Vong Canh Hill will give visitors a captivating view of the Perfume River and its surrounding ancient relics, lush nature, and romantic beauty.
- Hue Royal Tombs: The city of Hue is home to seven royal tombs, three of which are especially well-preserved and easily accessible. These are Minh Mang, Tu Duc, and Khai Dinh tombs, all located across the Perfume River from the Hue Citadel.
6. Conclusion
A memorable trip to Tu Hieu pagoda will be your highlight experience in our ancient capital, Hue. Not only discovering buddhism architectures but also learning interesting stories behind. Especially, you will learn about buddhism spirits and understand why it has become Vietnam main religion. Explore Vietnam Travel hopes this article is useful for your reading in advance. Wishing you a nice vacation.