One Pillar Pagoda Hanoi
A unique Buddhist temple built in 1049, resembling a lotus blossom on a single stone pillar. A symbol of Hanoi's rich history.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
One Pillar Pagoda Hanoi
Best Time
Peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique Buddhist temple built in 1049, resembling a lotus blossom on a single stone pillar. A symbol of Hanoi's rich history.
"Marvel at the unique architecture, a wooden pagoda built on a single stone pillar, resembling a blooming lotus flower."
Free to Admire
The pagoda itself is outdoors and free to view. Museum entry may require a ticket. :ticket:
Combine with Nearby Sites
Easily pair your visit with the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum for a full day of sightseeing. :world_map:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Iconic Lotus Blossom Design
Main structure
Marvel at the unique architecture, a wooden pagoda built on a single stone pillar, resembling a blooming lotus flower.
The Surrounding Museum Grounds
Adjacent to the pagoda
Explore the peaceful museum grounds, offering a serene escape and a glimpse into Vietnamese history and culture.
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit to Avoid Crowds
Accessibility and What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Free to Admire
The pagoda itself is outdoors and free to view. Museum entry may require a ticket. :ticket:
Combine with Nearby Sites
Easily pair your visit with the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum for a full day of sightseeing. :world_map:
Best for Photos
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos, but be aware it can get busy. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Free to Admire
The pagoda itself is outdoors and free to view. Museum entry may require a ticket. :ticket:
Combine with Nearby Sites
Easily pair your visit with the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum for a full day of sightseeing. :world_map:
Best for Photos
Visit during golden hour for stunning photos, but be aware it can get busy. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the One Pillar Pagoda a unique and historically significant landmark, appreciating its distinctive lotus-like architecture. While it's a quick visit, many recommend combining it with other nearby attractions for a more comprehensive Hanoi experience. Some note that it can get crowded, and the main draw is the exterior view.
"The One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi, Vietnam, is one of the country’s most iconic and unique Buddhist temples. Built in 1049 during the reign of Emperor Lý Thái Tông, it was designed to resemble a lotus blossom, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. The entire structure stands on a single stone pillar, rising from a serene lotus pond — giving it its name.
It’s a great place to visit, especially since there are a few other attractions nearby. So, it’s always a good idea to combine a visit to this place with a walk around.
NOTE:- As always, my reviews are based solely on my personal experience and are completely honest. I’m not influenced in any way, and I understand that others may have different experiences."
BadmintonMallu “The Honest Review”
"Incredibly beautiful grounds. One Pillar Pagoda is the Cecelia attraction with surrounding ponds and zen type gardens. Many people wth colorful stalls with gift/food items and souvenirs. Lovely day. No entrance fee, but b/c this is on the grounds of the Ho Chi Min square, you must wait in line and go through metal detectors and bag seach."
Felicia Whitney
"I’m not some history/architecture/religious geek but I think it’s a nice building and so is the area around it. The building seems to be a bit abandoned especially from the behind but considering it’s also free of charge, it’s not a bad option to visit this location. There are several small shops where you can buy souvenirs for affordable price and even WC. Would also be nice if other tourists had manners and not jump in everywhere, otherwise had a good experience.
As for the dress-code it’s very often in similar places to be asked to cover shoulders and legs but we didn’t notice any signs and weren’t asked anything so I would recommend to have something on you, just in case :)"
Ekaterine (Catherine)
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The One Pillar Pagoda (Chua Mot Cot) is located in Ba Dinh district, a central area in Hanoi. You can easily reach it by taxi, Grab (ride-sharing app), or local bus. Many visitors combine it with a visit to the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the Temple of Literature, which are relatively close by. +1
Yes, it's a well-known landmark and usually signposted. It's situated on the grounds of the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology, making it easy to locate.
For attractions like the Temple of Literature and Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, Grab or a taxi are convenient options. Walking is also feasible if you enjoy exploring the city on foot, but distances can be significant.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The One Pillar Pagoda itself is an outdoor structure and generally does not require an entrance fee. However, if you wish to explore the adjacent museum, a ticket might be necessary.
As an outdoor monument, the pagoda can be viewed at most times. The surrounding museum typically follows standard daytime operating hours, usually from around 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. It's best to check the museum's specific hours if you plan to visit it.
No, there is no admission fee to view the exterior of the One Pillar Pagoda. It's a popular free attraction for visitors to admire.
Since there's no entry fee for the pagoda itself, advance booking isn't required. If you plan to visit the museum, check their official website for any ticketing information or potential online booking options.
📸 📸 Photography
For the best photographic opportunities, aim for early morning or late afternoon. The soft light during these times can create a beautiful ambiance, especially during the golden hour.
Generally, photography is allowed around the exterior of the pagoda. However, if you enter any adjacent buildings or museums, there might be specific rules regarding photography, so it's always good to observe local signage.
Try capturing the pagoda from different perspectives, including from across the pond to get the reflection, and from slightly elevated positions if available. The unique single-pillar design makes for interesting shots.
🎫 🏛️ History & Significance
Originally built in 1049 by Emperor Lý Thái Tông, the One Pillar Pagoda is a significant Buddhist temple. Its unique design, resembling a lotus flower emerging from a single stone pillar, is said to be inspired by a dream. It's a symbol of Hanoi and Vietnamese Buddhist architecture.
The design is symbolic, representing a lotus flower, a sacred symbol in Buddhism. The single pillar is meant to represent purity and enlightenment.
The original pagoda was destroyed by the French in 1954, but it was rebuilt in its current form in 1955, closely adhering to the original design.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with the nearby Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Temple of Literature for a more engaging historical tour. The open grounds around the pagoda offer space for kids to move around briefly. Pack water and snacks, as it can get warm, and consider visiting in the morning to avoid peak crowds.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Experiment with different angles to capture the pagoda's distinct form. While the pagoda itself is the main focus, the surrounding greenery and water features add to the photographic appeal. Be mindful of other visitors, especially during busier times, to get clear shots.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Marvel: The Lotus Blossom Design
While the current structure is a reconstruction from 1955, it faithfully replicates the original design, preserving its historical and cultural significance. The pagoda is set within a tranquil pond, enhancing its ethereal beauty and making it a picturesque sight. Visitors often marvel at how such a delicate-looking structure can be supported by a single pillar, a feat of engineering that has stood the test of time.
Experiencing the pagoda is a quick but memorable part of any Hanoi itinerary. Its unique form makes it a standout landmark, offering a peaceful contrast to the bustling city. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in Vietnamese history, architecture, or Buddhist culture.
Visiting the Pagoda: Practicalities and Tips
To make the most of your visit, consider going during the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat and larger crowds. The soft light during these times can also enhance your photographs.
Travelers often recommend combining the One Pillar Pagoda with other key Hanoi landmarks to create a comprehensive sightseeing experience. This approach maximizes your time and allows you to appreciate the diverse historical and cultural offerings of the city.
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