One Pillar Pagoda: 5 Mysteries of Hanoi’s Symbol of Serenity

Hanoi, Vietnam's capital, is filled with history, culture, and unique landmarks, and among its treasures, the One Pillar Pagoda (Chùa Một Cột) shines as one of the most iconic. But what makes this pagoda so unique? How did it become such a powerful symbol of Vietnamese spirituality? In this article, we’ll uncover the rich history behind the One Pillar Pagoda, guide you on the best ways to get there, share the ideal times to visit, and reveal hidden facts that deepen its allure. Join us as we explore one of Hanoi’s most fascinating cultural sites!

Written by Trang Nguyen (Local Expert) Updated on 12-11-2024

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Table of contents

Where is the One Pillar Pagoda located?
The Origins and Story of the One Pillar Pagoda
Uniqueness of the One Pillar Pagoda’s Architecture
Getting to One Pillar Pagoda
Our guidelines for expats
Nearby attractions
FAQs

Where is the One Pillar Pagoda located?

The One Pillar Pagoda, or Chùa Một Cột, is nestled along Chùa Một Cột Street in Đội Cấn Ward, Ba Đình District, Hanoi. Situated behind the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, it's just a brief 100-meter stroll southwest from the mausoleum entrance.

As part of the Ba Đình historical complex, it’s wonderfully convenient for visitors to explore this pagoda alongside the mausoleum, the Presidential Palace, and Ba Đình Square, with only a few minutes between each site.

Known as Liên Hoa Đài, or “Lotus Blossom Platform,” the pagoda is a symbol of Vietnamese culture and spirituality. Its name comes from its lotus-like structure - a delicate flower rising from a pond, symbolizing purity and enlightenment.

The Origins and Story of the One Pillar Pagoda

According to legend, the pagoda was built in 1049 by Emperor Ly Thai Tong, inspired by a profound dream. The emperor dreamt that Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara, a compassionate figure in Buddhism, sat upon a lotus and invited him to join.

Upon awakening, he sought the guidance of the monk Zen Tue, who suggested building a pagoda on a lotus platform as a tribute to the bodhisattva and to bless the land and people with peace and prosperity.

one pillar pagoda in the night

In the area that was once a wilderness, only a serene pond existed. The ancient Tang Dynasty viewed this site as the “dragon’s spine” and placed a bronze pillar to break its spiritual vein. Later, a village emerged, named Nhất Trụ, or “One Pillar Village.” Emperor Ly Thai Tong, desiring a son, often visited this spot to pray.

One night, he dreamt of Avalokitesvara gifting him a celestial child, and soon afterward, the empress gave birth to a prince. In gratitude, the emperor built the pagoda in the form of his dream and named it Diên Hựu, meaning “Long-lasting Blessing.” The pagoda, built in the 10th lunar month of 1049, features a stone pillar rising from the Linh Chiểu Lake, embodying a lotus flower.

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*3D Reconstruction of the One Pillar Pagoda in Nguyen dynasty*

Uniqueness of the One Pillar Pagoda’s Architecture

The One Pillar Pagoda features a distinctive lotus-inspired design, symbolizing purity and spiritual elevation. Rising from the square Linh Chiểu Lake, which spans 16 meters per side and is bordered by green ceramic railings, the central stone pillar stands 4 meters tall with a diameter of 1.2 meters, formed from two solid stone blocks.

Atop this pillar rests the Liên Hoa (Lotus Platform) - a square lotus pavilion with sides 3 meters long, and a tiled roof elegantly curved at the corners. Each corner is adorned with the traditional “Two Dragons Embracing the Moon” motif, symbolizing power and sanctity.

the roof of one pillar pagoda — *Each corner is adorned with the traditional “Two Dragons Embracing the Moon” motif*

Inside the pavilion, a golden-painted statue of Avalokitesvara is displayed respectfully, with a plaque inscribed with "Liên Hoa Đài." The pavilion faces northeast toward the Nirvana Mountains, a spiritual orientation in Buddhism that symbolizes the path to enlightenment.

In 1080, under Emperor Lý Nhân Tông, a large bell named Giác Thế Chung (Bell of Awakening) was cast for the pagoda following his father Emperor Lý Thái Tổ’s wishes. Weighing approximately 7.3 tons, this bell was intended to inspire mindfulness and moral awakening. But in 1426, as Emperor Lê Lợi’s forces attacked and dispersed the Chinese, their general, low on weapons, ordered the bell to be smelted for copper to make more arms.

The architecture harmonizes artistry and spirituality. The lotus motif, rising untainted from muddy waters, represents purity and compassion, reflecting the Buddhist ideals of detachment and benevolence. The sturdy stone pillar and tranquil pond embody the balance of yin and yang, symbolizing the unity of heaven and earth.

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Restoration Across the Ages

Once an integral part of the Diên Hựu pagoda complex, the One Pillar Pagoda has withstood the ebb and flow of history with a quiet resilience. In 1105, Emperor Lý Nhân Tông expanded the sanctuary, adding the tranquil Linh Chiểu Lake and two jade-tiled towers, transforming it into an even more sacred and serene retreat.

the actual size of One pillar pagoda — *In 1105, Emperor Lý Nhân Tông expanded the sanctuary*

Over centuries, this treasured site underwent numerous restorations; in 1249, during the Trần dynasty, the lotus pond, graceful corridors, and surrounding towers were meticulously renewed, preserving the pagoda’s timeless elegance.

In 1954, tragedy struck when the French army destroyed the pagoda upon their departure from Hanoi. Yet, like a lotus emerging unscathed from the mud, the pagoda was reborn in 1955 under the dedicated guidance of architect Nguyễn Bá Lăng.

Today, the One Pillar Pagoda stands proudly once more, not only as a remarkable architectural masterpiece but also as a revered pilgrimage site. Dedicated to Avalokitesvara with a Thousand Arms and Eyes, it embodies boundless compassion and protection, offering a place of peace and spiritual solace to all who visit.

one pillar pagoda on a stamp — *Postage Des Beaux Frères in 1905*

The Significance of the One Pillar Pagoda

This pagoda holds a deep place in the religious and cultural life of the Vietnamese people. It is not only a place of worship for Avalokitesvara but also a center for religious festivities. On the full moon and first day of each month, Lý dynasty kings would hold Buddhist rites and ceremonies. During Vesak, the Buddha’s birthday, they released birds from the pagoda, a symbolic prayer for the country’s peace and compassion.

buddha cleansing — *Buddha bathing ritual has long been a tradition*

Through times of war and colonial rule, the One Pillar Pagoda became a symbol of resilience and patriotism for Hanoi’s people. After being destroyed by the French army in 1954, its restoration became a testament to Vietnamese pride in this unique architectural marvel. In 1962, it was recognized as a National Historic and Cultural Monument, and in 2012, the Asia Record Organization honored it as the “Most Unique Pagoda in Asia.”

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Good to know: special events and activities at One Pillar Pagoda

During major festivals, the One Pillar Pagoda is adorned with various flowers, especially lotus blooms, creating an atmosphere of reverence and tranquility. Visitors are encouraged to visit during these special occasions to immerse themselves in the serene ambiance:

Buddha’s Birthday (8th day of the 4th lunar month): This marks the birth of Siddhartha Gautama, the Buddha. The pagoda hosts the “Bathing the Buddha” ceremony, a significant Buddhist ritual. Statues of Avalokitesvara and other figures are decorated with lotus flowers, candles, and incense. People gather to offer flowers, bathe the Buddha statue, and pray for peace and blessings for themselves and their families.
First Full Moon of the Year (Tết Nguyên Tiêu): This festival, also called “The Buddha’s New Year,” is the first full moon of the lunar year. Many visitors come to pray for a year of peace and good fortune.

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first full moon of the year in one pillar pagoda — *Many visitors come to pray for a year of peace and good fortune.*

Mid-July Full Moon (Vu Lan Festival): This is the Buddhist day of filial piety, where prayers for deceased ancestors and loved ones are offered. The pagoda hosts a solemn ceremony for the liberation of souls, allowing people to honor and remember their family members and ancestors.

*Vu Lan Festival, or Wandering Souls Day, is an important spiritual holiday in Vietnam.*

October Full Moon (Hạ Nguyên Festival): This celebration gives thanks to nature and prayers for a bountiful harvest. It is one of the main Buddhist festivals of the year, during which the pagoda holds ceremonies for peace and prosperity.

Getting to One Pillar Pagoda

By Bus: You should consider using public buses for a low-cost and easy way to reach the One Pillar Pagoda. You can take routes 09, 18, 22, or 33, all of which have stops near the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, leaving you with only a short 100-meter walk to the pagoda.
By Taxi or Rideshare (Grab/Be): If you're staying in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, you should take a taxi or rideshare (Grab or Be) for a quick and convenient trip. You'll find the 10-15 minute ride to the pagoda, which is about 4 kilometers southwest, very straightforward.
By Bicycle or Motorbike: You could also rent a bicycle or motorbike from the Old Quarter, where many shops offer rentals. This 4-kilometer ride should take you around 15-20 minutes and will give you more flexibility for exploring.

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Our guidelines for expats

What to Wear: Wear modest clothing that covers your shoulders and knees to show respect for the sacred atmosphere of the pagoda. Avoid wearing anything too short or revealing.
Proper Behavior: Since the pagoda is a sacred space, you should keep your voice down and respect ongoing religious practices. You should also avoid taking photos in the main shrine area, and make an effort to keep the environment quiet by refraining from playful behavior.

one pillar pagoda tourists — *Visitors come in large numbers to visit the One Pillar Pagoda*

Remember to help preserve the site: Avoid littering, be cautious with relics, and walk gently to ensure the pagoda remains intact for years to come.

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Nearby attractions

Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum

Address: 2 Hùng Vương, Điện Bàn, Ba Đình, Hanoi.
Distance from One Pillar Pagoda: Only about 100 meters to the northeast, so you can easily walk from the pagoda to the mausoleum in just a few minutes.
Getting There: You can reach the mausoleum by bus, taxi, or personal vehicle.
Opening Hours: Open mornings from 7:30 to 10:30 (April to October) and 8:00 to 11:00 (November to March). Closed on Mondays, Fridays, and on holidays.

Presidential Palace

Address: Located in the same area as the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, on Hùng Vương Street, Ba Đình, Hanoi.
Distance from One Pillar Pagoda: About 200 meters away, so you can take a short walk through the Presidential Palace gardens to reach it from the pagoda.
Opening Hours: Open 8:00 to 11:00 in the morning and 14:00 to 16:00 in the afternoon. Closed on Mondays and Fridays.

Temple of Literature (Văn Miếu)

Address: 58 Quốc Tử Giám, Đống Đa District, Hanoi.
Distance from One Pillar Pagoda: Located about 1.5 km southwest, accessible within 5 minutes by motorbike, bicycle, taxi, or bus.
Opening Hours: Open 8:00 to 17:00 in summer and 8:00 to 16:30 in winter, open daily.

The Khuê Văn Các, one of the symbols of the capital Hanoi

Hoàn Kiếm Lake and Hanoi Old Quarter

Distance from One Pillar Pagoda: Around 4 km southwest; it takes about 10-15 minutes by taxi, bus, or motorbike. You can easily combine a visit to One Pillar Pagoda with exploring the Old Quarter and Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

Thăng Long Imperial Citadel

Distance from One Pillar Pagoda: Approximately 1 km to the north, a 10-minute walk. This special national heritage site holds numerous cultural treasures of ancient Thăng Long.

FAQs

1. What does One Pillar Pagoda symbolize?
The pagoda represents compassion, serenity, and enlightenment in Buddhism. Its lotus structure symbolizes Avalokitesvara and reflects harmony between people and nature.

2. Is there an entrance fee for One Pillar Pagoda?
No, entry is free for both local and international visitors.

3. What does the lotus flower represent at One Pillar Pagoda?
The lotus is a symbol of purity in Buddhism. At the pagoda, it’s not only an architectural feature but also a profound expression of Buddhist philosophy, embodying purity, detachment from worldly concerns, and compassion.

4. What religion is One Pillar Pagoda associated with?
The One Pillar Pagoda is a Buddhist structure, deeply rooted in Vietnamese Buddhist culture and beliefs. It is dedicated to Avalokitesvara, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, symbolizing protection and kindness. The pagoda stands as a testament to the reverence for Buddhism in Vietnamese life.

one pillar pagoda

5. How long should I spend visiting One Pillar Pagoda?
You should plan to spend at least 1-2 hours exploring and experiencing the full beauty of One Pillar Pagoda. The best time to visit is early in the morning or late afternoon when it’s quieter and cooler, especially in summer. These times offer a peaceful atmosphere to appreciate the unique architecture and spiritual ambiance.

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Our final words

Throughout the passage of time and Hanoi's many transformations, the One Pillar Pagoda has retained its timeless beauty and deep spiritual significance, standing as a testament to the cultural and religious heritage of the ancient Thang Long capital. This unique pagoda is not only a source of pride for the people of Hanoi but also a cherished symbol of Vietnam’s history. If you’re seeking a peaceful escape from the bustling pace of Hanoi, the One Pillar Pagoda is here to offer a serene haven - a place to reflect, rejuvenate, and connect with Vietnam’s rich past.