A Guide to One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi

One-Pillar Pagoda, Hanoi

When traveling to Vietnam, seeing the One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi seems to be a highlighted part of cultural destinations. It is considered to be one of the most unique pagodas in Asia, with a design that resembles a lotus flower, rising from the center of a  square-shaped pond.

Brief History of the One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi

The One-Pillar Pagoda was built by Emperor Ly Thai Tong in his 26th year of ruling. The legend has that, the Emperor was a man of no child. After a dream of meeting “Quan The Am Bo Tat”, the Goddess of Mercy, Ly Thai Tong married a young peasant girl and had a son. As a way of expressing his gratitude, he ordered to construct a pagoda in 1049.

One-Pillar Pagoda looks like a growing lotus flower

The One-Pillar Pagoda is made from wood on a single stone pillar which creates the shape of a lotus blossom and has been renovated several times, most recently in 2013. It serves as a symbol of Hanoi and remains one of the city’s most popular attractions in a beautifully tranquil garden setting.

Location of the One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi

Located in the city center, within the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex, One-Pillar Pagoda can easily be found. 

Address: 2 Hung Vuong Street, Ba Dinh, Hanoi
Opening hours:
7:30 AM - 10:30 AM (Tuesday to Thursday)
7:30 AM - 11 AM (Saturday and Sunday)
Close on Monday and Friday
Entrance fee: Free

Find top-rated hotels in Ba Dinh District:

A Guide to One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi: Local Tips

Wear Politely

Like visiting any other pagodas in Vietnam, your clothes should cover your chest, shoulders, and legs. Carrying a scarf is recommended. See more at Clothing Etiquettes in Vietnam for Foreign Visitors.

The regulation is well-stated in these signs

Follow the Instructions

Before getting inside, everyone needs to go through a security check

Visitors making their way to the Pagoda

Pack Lightly

You don’t need to bring much to the One-Pillar Pagoda. Just your camera for taking pictures, umbrellas in case of raining and spare changes of clothes if needed.

There are several small shops where you can buy snacks and drinks

You can take a small break on these benches

 Ho Chi Minh Museum is also in the Mausoleum Complex

Check out our Full Guide to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi

A Guide to One-Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi: Summary

To enjoy the tranquil side of Hanoi, there’s no better place than the One-Pillar Pagoda. Should any difficulty arise during your trip, don't hesitate to ask locals around, they surely are the friendliest people when it comes to that!

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