A small wooden shrine standing on a single stone pillar is one of Hanoi’s most famous landmarks. It stands in the middle of a small lake and its shape resembles a blooming lotus.

Thanks to its location right next to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, you can easily include it in the same walk.

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What will you see and how much time should you set aside?

The main attraction is the pagoda’s architecture itself. The shrine has a floor plan measuring just 3 × 3 metres and is accessed via a short flight of steps. Inside is an altar with a statue of Quan Am, the Buddhist goddess of mercy, but you’ll appreciate the building best when viewed from the pond.

I’d recommend allowing around 10–15 minutes for a quick look around and some photos. If there are a lot of visitors on the steps, your stop might take a little longer.

For a longer stroll around the temple complex, the Temple of Literature is a better choice. The One-Pillar Pagoda works well as a quick stop whilst exploring the area around Ba Dinh Square.

History of the pagoda

The original pagoda was built in 1049 by Emperor Lý Thái Tông. According to legend, Quan Am appeared to him in a dream sitting on a lotus flower, which inspired the shrine’s unusual design.

The current building dates from a reconstruction completed in 1955, which followed the pagoda’s destruction the previous year.

Admission and opening hours

• 💰 Admission: free.
• 💳 Payment: not required.
• 🕒 Opening hours: daily 7.00–18.00.

This is an active Buddhist shrine, so please ensure your shoulders and knees are covered when entering.

Where can you find the pagoda?

The pagoda stands right next to the Ho Chi Minh Museum, south-west of the mausoleum. Combine your visit with a trip to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Presidential Palace complex.

You can walk here from the Old Quarter or take a Grab. You’ll find practical information in the section on Transport in Hanoi.

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