Kien So Pagoda is a prominent spiritual destination in the capital city, attracting numerous visitors with its ancient architecture and peaceful atmosphere nestled in the Phu Dong village. When visiting Hanoi, make sure not to miss the opportunity to explore this pagoda!
Overview of Kien So Pagoda
Kien So Pagoda, a historical site located in the Phu Dong relic complex, Gia Lam District, Hanoi, is situated near other notable destinations like Tran Quoc Pagoda and Hoan Kiem Lake. As one of Vietnam's oldest pagodas, it was built by Zen Master Cam Thanh in the early 9th century. This pagoda is the origin of the Vo Ngon Thong Zen Sect and has been a place of practice for many renowned monks such as Zen Master Vo Ngon Thong, Da Bao, and Nun Dieu Nhan.
On February 21, 1975, Kien So Pagoda was recognized as a national historical, architectural, and artistic monument. Today, the pagoda is a well-known spiritual destination near Hanoi, attracting numerous Buddhists and visitors from far and wide for pilgrimage and sightseeing.
Located about 15 km northeast of central Hanoi, Kien So Pagoda is easily accessible via the route from Hanoi through Chuong Duong Bridge, Chui Bridge, and Duong Bridge. From there, turn right and follow the Duong River for about 5 km to reach the site.
The History of Kien So Phu Dong Ancient Pagoda
Kien So Pagoda is one of the oldest pagodas in Vietnam, initially constructed by Zen Master Cam Thanh before 820 AD. This was a time when Buddhism had entered Vietnam through the Luy Lau center, located in Dau Village, Bac Ninh – one of the earliest cradles of Vietnamese Buddhism. With the strong presence and development of Buddhism in the region, Kien So Pagoda quickly became an important site for spreading the teachings
In 820 AD, Zen Master Vo Ngon Thong, a renowned monk from Guangzhou, China, arrived in Vietnam. Upon his arrival at Kien So Pagoda, he was revered and recognized as a teacher by Zen Master Cam Thanh. With the sincere respect and invitation from Master Cam Thanh, Zen Master Vo Ngon Thong decided to stay at the pagoda and spread the Dharma here. From this time, Kien So Pagoda became not only a place of practice but also the center of the Vo Ngon Thong Zen Sect in Vietnam, contributing to the growth and expansion of this Buddhist lineage.
Unique Architectural Features of Kien So Pagoda, Gia Lam
Overall Architecture of the Pagoda
Kien So Pagoda stands out with its ancient architecture and impresses visitors with its grandeur and solemnity. From a distance, the pagoda’s massive Tam Quan (Three Entrance Gate) can be seen, aligned with the gate of Phu Dong Temple. The Tam Quan consists of five compartments, built in the two-tier roofed pavilion style, a distinctive architectural feature of large pagodas in Northern Vietnam, creating a harmonious and solid appearance. Upon entering the pagoda grounds, one can immediately feel the serenity and tranquility preserved in the ancient architecture.
The main pagoda is built in the "Noi Cong Ngoai Quoc" style – a unique architectural form often seen in ancient pagodas in the Red River Delta, where the inner space is arranged in the shape of the character "工" (gong) and the outer area in the shape of the character "囗" (guo). This layout not only creates a refined and logical spatial arrangement but also reflects the sacredness of the pagoda.
The Nine Dragons Cave Architecture
When visiting Kien So Pagoda, tourists and Buddhists cannot help but marvel at the interconnected earthen cave, considered the largest structure of its kind in Vietnam, over 200 years old. The ancient Nine Dragons Cave is 8 meters long, 3 meters high, and 2 meters thick, consisting of five interconnected caves.
On either side of the cave are the Journey to the West Cave, depicting the journey of Monk Tang Sanzang and his disciples, and the Hell Cave, showing the scene where Moggallana witnesses his mother suffering in hell. The three main caves are adorned with clouds and entwined dragons. On the clouds are images of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, Amitabha, and celestial generals. In the central part of the left cave is the image of Patriarch Bodhidharma holding a sandal, while on the right is Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva riding on a dragon.
Impressive Ancient Statues at Kien So Pagoda
Kien So Pagoda still preserves an extensive collection of ancient Buddhist statues. The statues are arranged in seven layers, with the set of Three Worlds Buddha statues from the 17th century placed in the innermost part of the main hall. These statues are made from clay and covered with gilded lacquer.
In front of the Three Worlds Buddha statues is the Buddha altar, consisting of six layers of statues arranged from highest to lowest. The first layer features the statue of Amitabha Buddha, followed by five statues in the second row, the third row houses the statue of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, the fourth row is the statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, the fifth row is the statue of the Jade Emperor, and the final layer is the Nine Dragons Altar. In the Upper Hall, in addition to the Buddha statues, there are statues of King Ly Cong Uan and his mother, Zen Master Vo Ngon Thong, and Emperor Ly Thai To.
Things to Keep in Mind When Visiting Kien So Pagoda, Gia Lam, Hanoi
To ensure a smooth and respectful visit to Kien So Pagoda, here are some tips to keep in mind:
This article provides information about Kien So Pagoda, an ancient pagoda with a history spanning over 1,000 years in Phu Dong Village, Gia Lam District, Hanoi. With its peaceful ambiance and distinctive architecture, the pagoda has become an attractive destination, drawing numerous visitors and Buddhists for pilgrimage and sightseeing. If you have the chance to visit the capital, make sure to take some time to explore this sacred pagoda!
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