Tran Quoc Pagoda & West Lake

Category: Spiritual Sanctuary & Scenic Lake | Location: Thanh Nien Road, Tay Ho District, Hanoi

Perched on a scenic islet on the eastern shore of West Lake, Tran Quoc Pagoda is the oldest Buddhist temple in Hanoi, possessing a revered history of nearly 1,500 years. Founded in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Ly Nam De and originally named Khai Quoc (National Founding), it served as the foremost spiritual center for emperors and monks during the golden Buddhist eras of the Ly and Tran dynasties. The pagoda's architectural centerpiece is an exquisite 15-meter-high, 11-tiered hexagonal stupa constructed with reddish terracotta bricks, housing six gleaming white gemstone Amitabha Buddha statues on each level. Sheltered within its peaceful gardens thrives a sacred Bodhi tree grown from a cutting of the original Mahabodhi tree in Bodh Gaya, presented by Indian President Rajendra Prasad in 1959. Sunset at Tran Quoc Pagoda along Thanh Nien Causeway is renowned as one of Hanoi's most poetic panoramas. Visitors can savor the gentle chiming of temple bells echoing across the wide waters of West Lake, watch fishermen casting nets against fiery skies, and find tranquil solace away from urban bustle.