Temple of Literature Hanoi

If you are traveling to Hanoi, the ancient capital of Vietnam, one of the first places you’ll encounter is the Temple of Literature. It is a historic treasure and the site of Vietnam’s first national university. Located in a busy road, Temple of Literature reveals that even in the heart of the city, quiet corners of tranquility still exist.

I. History of Temple of Literature

Located to the south of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, Temple of Literature was founded in 1070, almost 1000 years ago, by Emperor Ly Thanh Tong as a temple to worship the Chinese philosopher Confucius.

In 1076, his son established the Imperial Academy as a royal school for only members of the elite such as princes, nobles, and bureaucrats. 

The Imperial Academy, which was considered as the first university in Vietnam, opened for about 700 years and educated hundreds of well-known scholars and mandarins. Despite continuous wars and disasters, the Temple of Literature remained its precious architectural and cultural value.

II. Architecture of Temple of Literature

Temple of Literature encompasses over 54,000 square meters, enclosed by an ancient brick wall and divided into five distinctive courtyards. Here’s a detailed look at each section:

1. The First Courtyard – Đại Trung Môn

Entering through the Great Middle Gate, visitors escape Hanoi’s bustle into a peaceful, green sanctuary. Two side entrances, the Virtue Gate and Talent Gate, reflect the King’s aspirations for students’ academic achievement.

Atop the main gate sits a fish symbol, representing an ancient legend: annually, God holds a competition where fish attempt to leap over powerful waves, with successful ones transforming into dragons. This metaphorically represents students’ journey – only through diligent study can they excel in examinations and become government officials.

During this era, students studied Confucian philosophy, literature, and Chinese culture. The examination system consisted of three levels: Regional (Hương), National (Hội), and Royal (Đình) examinations, with a three-year waiting period between attempts.

2. The Second Courtyard – Khuê Văn Các

This courtyard features the iconic Khue Van Cac (Pavilion of Constellation), built in 1805 and recognized as Hanoi’s symbol, appearing on the 100,000 Vietnam dong note.

The pavilion, supported by four white-washed stone stilts, takes its name from Khue, the brightest star, whose constellation forms the Chinese character for “Literature.” A ancient bronze bell, rung only on special occasions, hangs within the courtyard.

3. The Third Courtyard – Thien Quang Well

Known as the Well of Heavenly Clarity, this square-shaped well holds deep symbolism. Its square form represents earth, while the circular pavilion above symbolizes heaven, creating cosmic harmony.

The well served both practical and spiritual purposes, allowing students to prepare themselves before entering the sacred inner areas. This courtyard houses the unique stelae house, where stone turtles bear large stone tablets.

Originally numbering 116, only 82 stelae remain today, documenting Confucian philosophy, imperial edicts, and doctoral achievements. The turtle, one of Vietnam’s four sacred animals, represents wisdom and longevity.

4. The Fourth Courtyard – Đại Thành Môn

This “gate to great success” features the House of Ceremonies and Confucian sanctuary, distinguished by red columns and wooden beam ceilings adorned with antique lanterns. The central altar, incorporating the five elements (Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, and Earth), follows traditional Vietnamese worship customs. Decorative cranes and turtles flank the altar, symbolizing harmony and eternity.

5. The Fifth Courtyard – The Grounds of Imperial Academy

This two-story structure honors educational heritage. The ground floor displays a statue of Chu Văn An, the academy’s first rector, alongside historical artifacts depicting Confucian education.

The upper floor serves as a shrine to three significant kings: Lý Thánh Tông (temple founder, 1070), Lý Nhân Tông (academy founder), and Lê Thánh Tông (who commissioned the doctor stelae in 1484).

Further read:

• Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum Complex
• One Pillar Pagoda Hanoi
• Ho Chi Minh’s Stilt House

III. How to Get There

The Temple of Literature is conveniently situated at the intersection of four major Hanoi streets: Nguyen Thai Hoc, Ton Duc Thang, Van Mieu, and Quoc Tu Giam. Its central location makes it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.

Private Transport:

• Use Google Maps for accurate directions if driving yourself
• Book a ride through local ride-hailing apps like Grab or Gojek

Public Transport:

• Take buses number 2, 4, 23, 25, or 38, which all stop near the temple

The temple is located about 2-3 km west of Hoan Kiem Lake and south of Thang Long Imperial Citadel. You can get to Temple of Literature in just 10 minutes using a taxi and about 1 hour walking on foot from Hoan Kiem lake.

IV. Tips for Visiting Temple of Literature Hanoi

• Get to the temple: From Hoan Kiem Lake, it takes only 15 minutes to walk. If you prefer not to walk, you can hop in a cyclo (human-powered bike taxi). Don’t worry, it never costs much.

• Bring cash: the ticket office does not accept paying by credit card.

• Don’t arrive too late: you should spend at least 01 hour exploring the Temple of Literature, so be mindful of timing. One more thing to know, summer in Hanoi is extremely hot, especially in the afternoon. Unless you are good to go beating the heat, just arrive in the morning!

• Photography is allowed, but be respectful: please don’t laugh or talk too loud in the worshipping area.

Hanoi is such an interesting city that offers a number of interesting Hanoi attractions and sites to visit. Anyone who is either curious about Vietnam long fascinating history or love discovering some architectural and cultural features of Hanoi should not miss Temple of Literature. 

Not only does Hanoi open a space for you to relax, but also a chance to understand more about Vietnam. Don’t forget to comment below and share your experience if you have been to this wonderful place!