Discover the beauty and history of Trấn Quốc Pagoda in Hanoi, Vietnam — the city’s oldest Buddhist temple and one of the most peaceful places to visit on West Lake. In this episode of Globe Travel Adventures, join our guest host Nhi, a local Hanoian, as she guides us through the pagoda’s stunning architecture, spiritual traditions, and serene surroundings.
🏯 About Trấn Quốc Pagoda
Built in the 6th century during the reign of Emperor Lý Nam Đế
Moved to West Lake in the 17th century to protect it from flooding
Features an 11-story stupa, ancient bodhi trees, and bonsai gardens
Still an active place of worship for local Buddhists today
🌅 Best Time to Visit
Early morning for calm and cooler weather
Late afternoon or sunset for incredible views over West Lake
💡 Travel Tips
Dress respectfully (shoulders and knees covered)
Entrance is free, but donations are welcome
Combine your visit with a walk around West Lake or nearby Trúc Bạch Lake
If you’re planning your trip to Hanoi, Vietnam, Trấn Quốc Pagoda is a must-see landmark. Whether you come for the history, the photography, or simply to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere, this temple is one of the city’s true gems.
Welcome back to Globe Travel Adventures. Today we're exploring one of Hanoi's most iconic
landmarks and joining us is our local friend Nhi who's going to show us around.
Hi, I'm Nhi and today we're standing on the causeway that leads to Tran Quoc Pagoda,
one of the most historic and beautiful landmarks in Hanoi. So let's get exploring together.
When visiting, it's important to remember that this is an active place of worship.
Locals still come here every day to pray, light incense and make offerings.
Tran Quoc Pagoda is more than 1,500 years old, making it the oldest pagoda in Hanoi.
It was originally built on the banks of the Red River in the 6th century during the reign of
and later moved here to Westlake in the 17th century to protect it from flooding.
One of the highlights here is the 11-story stupa built in 1998. Each level holds statues
of Amitabha Buddha and at the very top is a precious nine gem lotus. Around the pagoda,
you'll also find ancient Bodhi trees, bonsai gardens and statues that reflect the artistry
of Vietnamese Buddhism. Locals still come here every day to pray, light incense and make offerings.
Please dress respectfully, long pants or skirts and covered shoulders. Photography is welcome
but please be mindful of people who are here for spiritual reasons. What I love about having Nhi
with us is that she can share not only the history but also how locals actually experience this today.
The best times to visit are early in the morning when the air is cool and the light is soft
or in the late afternoon. At sunset, the Red Pagoda glows beautifully against the waters
of Westlake. From here, you can see the skyline of Hanoi mixed with traditional and modern life.
So whether you're interested in Buddhist culture, photography or simply just want a quiet,
meaningful place to visit in Hanoi, this is a must-see. I hope you enjoy it as much as I do.
Bye! So thanks for watching. I hope you've enjoyed this video.
Don't forget to like, subscribe and as always, keep on adventuring!
