Experience of Visiting Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue

Hue has the highest number of pagodas compared to any other locality in the country. There are over 300 pagodas and Buddhist temples in Hue, including more than 300 ancient pagodas. Tu Dam Pagoda is among the most famous and attracts a large number of visitors here.

If you are planning a trip to the Central region, you should visit this tourist attractions in Hue. Below, VnCarRentals.com’s will share some experiences for exploring this over 300-year-old pagoda in Hue.

Overview of Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue – an ancient and sacred temple over 300 years old.

Tu Dam is a sacred temple over 300 years old located in Hue. The temple is renowned for its ancient beauty and unique architecture. Currently, it serves as a center for Buddhist studies, a place of peace, and a welcoming venue for revered Buddhist leaders.

Where is Tu Dam Pagoda?

On the tourist map of Hue, Tu Dam Pagoda is situated at 01 Su Lieu Quan Street, Truong An, Hue City. The temple is approximately 2 km west of the city center. With its venerable beauty and distinctive architecture, Tu Dam Pagoda has become a captivating tourist destination in Hue.

From the city center, you can travel to Dien Bien Phu Street and then turn right at the intersection with Su Lieu Quan Street to reach the pagoda. You can choose to take a taxi or rent a motorbike for transportation.

History and construction/restoration of Tu Dam Pagoda

At the end of the 17th century, Venerable Minh Hoang Tu Dung and a Chinese Zen master initiated the construction of Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue. Initially named An Ton, the pagoda underwent renovation and repairs in 1703. In the same year, King Nguyen Phuc Chu bestowed the royal seal, officially renaming the pagoda An Ton Tu.

In 1841, during the reign of King Thieu Tri, the pagoda underwent another name change from An Ton to Tu Dam, symbolizing pure and peaceful clouds, representing the Buddha. During the August Revolution years, the pagoda played a significant role in the dynamic activities of Buddhism, laying the groundwork for the unification of the Vietnamese Buddhist Church.

Getting to Tu Dam Pagoda

If you are a traveler from a distance, you can pre-book a flight ticket to Hue. If you are in Da Nang, you can arrange a private car rental from Da Nang to Hue with our services.

The distance from the center of Hue City to Tu Dam Pagoda is only about 3km, and you can reach there by:

• Taking Bus Route 05: Catch bus route 05 and get off at a stop close to the pagoda.
• Taxi or Ride-Sharing: Calling a taxi or using ride-sharing services is a convenient option for travelers.

For those using personal vehicles, there are two routes:

• Route 1: Follow Hanoi Street -> turn right onto Le Loi Street -> go straight to Dien Bien Phu Street -> turn right onto Su Lieu Quan Street -> continue for about 500m to reach the pagoda.
• Route 2: Drive along Ngo Quyen Street -> Phan Boi Chau Street -> turn right onto Su Lieu Quan Street.

Additionally, if you prefer a quick and convenient transportation solution with door-to-door service, you can book a car rental service in Hue from VnCarRentals.com’s. With a professional team of drivers, basic English proficiency, and years of experience, they will make your journey the most comfortable.

Travelers can visit Tu Dam Pagoda at any time of the year. However, during the dry season in Hue (from January to May), which is the peak tourist season, the pagoda attracts the most visitors.

Ticket Prices and Opening Hours of Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue

• Ticket Price: Free
• Opening Hours: 06:00 – 21:00, every day of the week

Tourist Activities and Worshiping Experiences at Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue

For a one-day trip to Hue, make sure to visit Tu Dam Pagoda and participate in various captivating and unique activities.

Admire the Ancient and Unique Architecture of Tu Dam Pagoda

Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue stands out with its ancient beauty and a harmonious blend of traditional and modern architecture. Despite several renovations, the temple has retained its ancient charm. The structure consists of three parts: the triple gate, the main hall, and the assembly hall.

The triple gate is wide and tall, featuring a unique tiled roof. Beyond the gate lies a flat stone-paved courtyard. The main hall includes the front hall, the main hall, and the ancestral hall. The front hall is built on a foundation of granite, with a traditional multi-story roof. Symmetrically arranged along the roof edge are images of paired dragons.

The main hall of Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue contains a central statue of the Buddha Thich Ca Mau Ni seated on a lotus, flanked by the Bodhisattvas Van Thu and Pho Hien on either side. Behind the main hall is the ancestral hall. The assembly hall is spacious, consisting of 10 chambers across two floors. With its ancient and unique architecture, this pagoda becomes an ideal check-in point for tourists.

Explore the An Ton Tower – Symbol of Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue

To the left of the Triple Gate is the An Ton Tower, the symbol of Tu Dam Pagoda. The tower stands 27 meters tall with 7 stories, constructed in a diminishing size as it ascends. Each floor of the tower houses a bronze Buddha statue. If you have the opportunity to travel from Hue to Da Nang, you should visit Tu Dam Pagoda and explore the An Ton Tower.

Enjoy the Poetic Couplets at Tu Dam Pagoda

One of the enjoyable activities that many tourists appreciate when visiting Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue is to admire the poetic couplets. Most of the couplets displayed in the temple are composed by Venerable Thich Thien Sieu. They primarily focus on the history of the pagoda and can be found in various locations, such as the two columns in front of the main hall and the exterior of the front hall.

Marvel at the Century-Old Bodhi Tree

When visiting Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue, don’t forget to check-in at the century-old Bodhi tree. Viewable from the main hall, the Bodhi tree is located to the left of the courtyard. It originated from India and was planted in Vietnam in 1939. From a small branch, it has grown into a majestic Bodhi tree with a sprawling canopy, providing shade to a corner of the temple courtyard.

Visit and Worship at the Main Hall, Seeking Good Luck and Peace

While exploring Tu Dam Pagoda, visitors should not miss worshiping at the main hall to seek good luck and peace. Although the main hall is elegantly simple, it exudes an atmosphere of solemnity. In the center is the black statue of Buddha Thich Ca Mau Ni seated on a lotus, flanked by the Bodhisattvas Van Thu and Pho Hien on either side. Tu Dam Pagoda is a sacred place visited by many tourists, both local and international, for Buddhist ceremonies and blessings.

Participate in Buddhist Festivals at Tu Dam Pagoda

Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue plays a crucial role in the spiritual and religious life of the people of Hue and the Vietnamese people in general. Annually, the pagoda hosts numerous Buddhist festivals, with the most prominent being the Buddha’s Birthday celebration on the 15th day of the 4th lunar month.

Visiting Tu Dam Pagoda during this time allows tourists to witness the temple adorned with splendid lanterns. As the festival approaches, Buddhists flock to the pagoda to recite prayers and participate in religious activities, creating a vibrant and spiritual atmosphere.

Tips for Visiting Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue

To fully enjoy and appreciate your exploration of Tu Dam Pagoda, consider the following tips:

• Respectful Attire: As the temple is a sacred place, dress modestly and respectfully. It is advisable to wear long sleeves and pants. If you choose to wear a dress, make sure it is knee-length or longer.
• Gentle Behavior: Move quietly and speak softly to avoid disturbing both worshippers and fellow tourists. Keep in mind the serene atmosphere of the temple, and minimize noise, especially when taking photographs.
• Footwear Etiquette: If you enter the main hall or designated areas to light incense, kindly remove your shoes and leave them outside.
• Respectful Gestures: When approaching the altar, you may perform a gesture of respect or prayer for peace, health, and prosperity.
• Maintain Cleanliness: Be conscious of maintaining cleanliness in shared spaces. Dispose of litter in designated areas to ensure the temple’s aesthetic appeal.
• Preparation and Knowledge: Before visiting Tu Dam Pagoda in Hue, take some time to learn about its history and architecture. This will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the site.

Tu Dam Pagoda has made a significant contribution to the preservation and development of Buddhist teachings and the Vietnamese culture. It is not only deeply intertwined with the spiritual life of the people of Hue but also serves as a gathering place for Buddhists nationwide. Additionally, it is an attractive tourist destination for visitors to the ancient capital.