Temple of Literature in Hanoi (Van Mieu) ☀️

4 min readJul 21, 2016

Temple of Literature is one of the most important monument in Hanoi.

Temple of Literature as one of the most important monument in Hanoi.

Approximately 2–3 km west of Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi is one of the oldest and most important monuments in the city - Temple of Literature (Van Mieu -Guoc Tu Giam). You can get there in about 10 minutes by taxi from Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi, one hour when you walk. Temple of Literature was founded in 1070 by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong and is dedicated to the Chinese philosopher Confucius. University was founded about six years later, where the children of the royal family were taught, selected students and aristocracy. Then they worked as teachers and propagandists of Confucian teachings.

Temple of Literature in Hanoi was founded almost 1 000 years ago.

The foundation of the Palace of literature also circulated different historical records and opinions that say, the palace was founded in the year 1156. The year 1070 is referred to as the time when the palace was built. The Confucianism had increasing influence in the 13th century in Vietnam and this palace is known as the most important confucian building in the old Vietnam. Establishment of the palace was an important shift towards centralization of education in the capital and introducing a uniform education system.

It is possible to buy tourist souvenirs in Temple of Literature.

Relax here and soak up the historic atmosphere of the place.

You can also relax from the bustle of the city in the Temple of Literature. This long temple complex is divided into 5 walled courtyard. Big walls also prevent ambient noise of passing motorbikes, there is relative calm from the busy Hanoi. Admission is only 10,000 dong. Temple of Literature has been repaired several times and is maintained and still retains its original character. Pagodas, bell tower and sanctuary, and mainly original Vietnamese font (similar to Chinese characters) recorded on stone tablets carried by statue in the shape of a turtle.

Opening time:
Monday — Friday — 7:30–17:30
Weekend — 7:30–20:30

Official website:
www.vanmieu.gov.vn

Map: https://www.google.com/maps/d/viewer?mid=1EOYpqEucoPG1NyMq_6ObUe22enY

Traditional vietnamese music in the Temple of Literature >>>

CONFUCIUS (551–479 BC) was a Chinese philosopher, social politician and statesman. His moral philosophy based on respect for the tradition and the harmony and humility. Following the teachings of Confucius develops Confucianism, which affected the history of religion in East Asia. Confucius is considered as the first Chinese philosopher. It’s reformist figure who along with another philosopher Lao-c‘ affected permanently Chinese culture, politics and religion.

Photos from the Temple of Literature (Van Mieu) >>>