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Phuc Khanh Pagoda is an ancient temple located in the heart of Hanoi, celebrated for its long history and peaceful atmosphere. Situated in the city center, it serves as an ideal stop for residents and visitors interested in exploring Vietnam’s spiritual culture.
Phuc Khanh Pagoda, also known as So Pagoda, is one of Hanoi’s ancient temples with rich historical value. Located at 382 Tay Son Street, Dong Da District, the pagoda serves both Buddhist worship and the veneration of deities. It also honors esteemed monks who contributed significantly to the temple. Recognized as a National Cultural Historic Site by the Ministry of Culture and Information in 1988, Phuc Khanh Pagoda is now a vital spiritual symbol of the capital.
The temple was built during the late Tran Dynasty and early Le So Dynasty (15th century), originally as a sanctuary for Buddhist monks. Under the Le Trung Hung Dynasty, Phuc Khanh Pagoda became renowned throughout Hanoi. However, in the late 18th century, the temple suffered considerable damage during the Ngoc Hoi - Dong Da battle, a historic event marked by a bell cast in 1796, which is still preserved in the temple.
Phuc Khanh Pagoda was also destroyed during the French colonial period, but after peace was restored, the local government and people worked together to rebuild it. The site has since become a sacred space where people come to pray and honor Buddha.
The architecture of Phuc Khanh Pagoda reflects an ancient, solemn style, with notable renovations completed in 1993, 1996, and 1998. The pagoda complex includes the Three-Entrance Gate, Front Hall, Upper Hall, Ancestral Hall, Goddess Hall, Avalokiteshvara Pavilion, and a Stupa area, along with amenities for daily activities for both visitors and monks.
Upon entering through the main gate, visitors encounter the dignified, two-story Three-Entrance Gate, where a bell tower retains its classic elegance. The gate features a large central door flanked by two smaller side doors, creating a harmonious look with its arched design. Behind the gate, a small garden offers a tranquil space before visitors proceed to the Front Hall, where a thousand-armed Avalokiteshvara statue is enshrined.
Inside, the temple is arranged in the Chinese character “工” (gong), with many intricately crafted statues. The main hall has five sections, displaying Dharmapala statues symbolizing the principles of karma. Above hangs a board inscribed with the Chinese characters “Hoang Kim Dien” (Golden Dragon Hall), underscoring the pagoda’s majesty. The beams are finely carved with images of cranes, pines, and chrysanthemums.
In the rear, the back hall consists of three main compartments with statues of the Nine Dragons, Avalokiteshvara, Amitabha Buddha, and the Goddess. Next is the Ancestral Hall, a memorial space for the abbots who contributed to building and developing Phuc Khanh Pagoda.
Despite its turbulent history, the pagoda has preserved numerous valuable relics. The temple’s statues, such as the Avalokiteshvara, Amitabha Buddha, and the thousand-armed Avalokiteshvara, are all finely crafted and ancient.
Additionally, the pagoda houses three ancient bronze bells and 21 stone steles, with the oldest dating back to 1693. Unique artifacts such as scroll paintings, ceremonial boards, couplets, and incense burners are also carefully preserved, further illuminating the temple’s long-standing cultural significance.
How to Get to Phuc Khanh Pagoda
Centrally located, Phuc Khanh Pagoda is easily accessible by car, motorbike, taxi, or bus. Those traveling by private vehicle can reach the temple by turning from Xa Dan Street to Nguyen Luong Bang, continuing along Tay Son Street until seeing the pagoda on the left, near Nga Tu So flyover.
For those unfamiliar with Hanoi or looking to save on travel expenses, buses are an affordable and convenient choice. Routes such as 01, 02, 09B, 16, 161, 84, E09, E01, E04, 19, 104, 24, 27, and 68 all have stops near the pagoda, with ticket prices starting from just 7,000 VND per ride.
Phuc Khanh Pagoda welcomes visitors year-round, but for a more immersive cultural and spiritual experience, it’s recommended to visit during the full moon of the first lunar month and the full moon of the seventh lunar month. On these days, the temple holds peace ceremonies for the country and its people, attracting many Buddhists and visitors. Additionally, on the 8th, 15th, and 18th of the first lunar month, the pagoda hosts star worship ceremonies, providing an opportunity for visitors to engage in meaningful spiritual activities.
After exploring Phuc Khanh Pagoda, visitors can easily visit several other prominent sites in Hanoi, such as:
Phuc Khanh Pagoda stands as a spiritual symbol of Hanoi, offering a peaceful space amid the bustling city. For those who cherish history or seek tranquility, a visit to this pagoda will open a colorful perspective on Vietnam’s spiritual culture.
Some other attractions in Hanoi:
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