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If you're planning a trip, don't miss the chance to experience the serene atmosphere at Hoang Phap Pagoda. Let's join BDATrip to gather all the essential information for a fulfilling visit to this sacred temple!
"Where is Hoang Phap Pagoda located?" This is surely a question many travelers have when they want to learn about this sacred site. Hoang Phap Pagoda is located at 96, Tan Thoi 3 Hamlet, Tan Hiep Commune, Hoc Mon District, Ho Chi Minh City. Situated about 20km northwest of District 1, visitors can follow the routes and use the transportation options below:
Hoang Phap Pagoda has a long history, beginning in 1957 when the Late Venerable Ngo Chan Tu decided to establish the temple. At that time, the pagoda was built on a wild, bushy area in Hoc Mon, Ho Chi Minh City. This marked the first steps in the development of the pagoda, which carried a spiritual mission and dedication to Buddhism.
By 1959, after overcoming many initial challenges, the pagoda began to be more solidly built using brick materials. The temple was designed to face northwest, symbolizing peace and harmony with nature. During the early years, the temple gradually asserted its position as an important spiritual center in the region.
During the intense warfare of 1965, Hoang Phap Pagoda became a shelter and support for the community. The Late Venerable Ngo Chan Tu extended his compassion by accepting and caring for 60 families for eight months amidst social turmoil. This highlighted the venerable's kindness and spirit of helping those in need, making the pagoda a refuge for those facing hardship.
In 1968, the Late Venerable also founded the Duc Anh Orphanage to care for and raise orphans, providing shelter for 365 children between the ages of 6 and 10.
By 1995, the temple rebuilt the main hall to ensure solemnity and create a spacious area for religious and community activities.
Hoang Phap Pagoda is one of the famous temples that attracts many visitors and Buddhists for worship and sightseeing. Upon entering the temple gate, you'll immediately notice the Tam Quan (three-entrance) gate with its unique architecture. The central gate bears the inscription "Hoang Phap Pagoda," while the two side gates feature the words "Wisdom" on the right and "Compassion" on the left. Traditional couplets are inscribed along the gate, creating a cultural signature of the temple.
The architecture of the Tam Quan gate is a delicate blend of classical and modern elements. The details are meticulously carved, with soft curves that still maintain distinct angles. The pagoda gate’s roof is constructed with two tiers of red tiles, curved at the eaves, adding a graceful and elegant touch to the overall structure.
Once you pass through the gate, you’ll step into the temple’s spacious and lush green courtyard. Along the path are fresh green potted plants, providing a sense of comfort and serenity. This space allows visitors to feel the tranquility and calmness within their hearts.
The main hall of Hoang Phap Pagoda measures 42 meters in length and 18 meters in width, with a total area of 756 square meters, designed in the traditional "Gong" shape. The roof of the main hall is covered with vibrant red tiles, standing out against the blue sky and the green scenery of the surrounding trees.
The temple’s main building consists of two stories with eight roofs, supported by a sturdy system of beams and pillars. The temple’s walls are made of brick and covered with ceramic tiles on the outside, while the interior is elegantly painted. The floor of the temple is lined with imported granite tiles from Spain, adding a touch of luxury and durability.
At the foot of the three-tiered stairs leading to the temple are two majestic golden lions standing guard, while at the center is a bronze incense burner crafted with great precision. The doors, altar, and furnishings in the temple are all made from precious wood, enhancing the solemnity of the space. Facing the main hall is a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha meditating under the Bodhi tree, symbolizing enlightenment and peace.
- The Left of the Main Hall: The Nhi Nghiem Tower is a secondary structure near the main hall, dedicated to the memory of the deceased nuns. The nearby dining hall is spacious and clean. Adjacent to it is the elderly care home for women, comprising 10 rooms, each accommodating four people, with a kitchen at the back serving the temple's needs.
- The Right of the Main Hall: There is a 10-meter-high rock garden spanning over 20 meters in width, surrounded by a pond, with a 5-meter-tall marble statue of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva standing in the center of the water. Nearby is the Pho Do Tower, where the ashes of Buddhists from all over are kept.
The Nhi Nghiem Tower is a distinctive architectural feature of Hoang Phap Pagoda. Located to the left of the main hall, it serves as the final resting place of the Late Venerable Ngo Chan Tu, who founded the temple.
The tower's architecture features a circular base with three ascending steps. As it rises, the diameter of the tower’s levels narrows, creating a slender and elegant shape. At the top is a small dome-shaped tower adorned with shining ceramic tiles. The pinnacle of the tower is highlighted by the "Swastika" symbol, representing the eternity of the universe and the infinite compassion of the Buddha.
Hoang Phap Pagoda is renowned for organizing many annual meditation retreats, attracting numerous Buddhists from across the country. Each year, the temple welcomes thousands of people to participate in the retreats, creating a meaningful and energetic spiritual environment.
During the seven-day retreat, you will be guided by the monks through Buddhist teachings, from how to fold your hands in prayer, bow respectfully, to rituals like greetings, prostrations, and cultivating character. These practices not only carry religious significance but also help you better understand ethics and ways of living in everyday life. Additionally, the retreats combine with physical exercise activities, helping to balance both body and mind.
After attending the retreats, you'll notice a significant change in your temperament. The practice helps you learn to control your emotions, maintain calm in all situations, and create a peaceful, serene mind.
Moreover, Hoang Phap Pagoda also organizes summer retreats for students. This is an opportunity for young people to experience a self-reliant lifestyle, discipline themselves, and cultivate kindness. Parents often send their children to these retreats to help them develop character and learn how to live responsibly.
Hoang Phap Pagoda is not only famous among Buddhists from all over but is also well-known for its Sala tree – a tree believed to symbolize luck and peace. The Sala tree, also known by other names such as Daulan, Nagalingam, or Sal, is a type of ancient tree with clusters of radiant red flowers hanging down to the ground, creating an ethereal and dignified beauty. This tree is commonly found in temples throughout Vietnam.
According to legend, Lord Buddha was born under the Sala tree, which is why it holds such sacred meaning, symbolizing luck and blessings. This has attracted many Buddhists from all over to visit Hoang Phap Pagoda and pray under the Sala tree, hoping for peace and good fortune for themselves and their families.
Many Buddhists and travelers are curious about where Hoang Phap Pagoda is located and how to get there. This famous pagoda is known as one of the largest Buddhist cultural centers in Vietnam, as well as a place for the study and training of Buddhist teachings. With its location near Ho Chi Minh City, Hoang Phap Pagoda is a popular spiritual destination that attracts numerous locals and visitors for sightseeing and worship.
To ensure a smooth trip, keep in mind that the pagoda opens at 5 a.m. and closes at 8:30 p.m. When visiting the temple, you should maintain quietness, avoid loud conversations, and preserve the sacred and tranquil atmosphere of the place. Additionally, as a spiritual site, it is important to dress modestly, avoiding tight, revealing, or short clothing.
If you plan to visit Hoang Phap Pagoda, make sure to prepare the necessary information to have a complete and meaningful spiritual travel experience.
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