Thien Mu Hue: Discover the oldest and most sacred pagoda in ancient capital

Thien Mu Hue is the oldest and most sacred pagoda in the former imperial capital, famous for its Phuoc Duyen Tower gracefully reflecting on the Perfume River. This is a must-visit destination that embodies the historical, cultural, and spiritual essence of Hue.

About Thien Mu pagoda

• Address: 140–142 Nguyen Phuc Nguyen Street, Huong Long Ward, Hue City
• Opening hours: 08:00–18:00
• Entrance fee: Free

Also known as Linh Mu Pagoda, Thien Mu is one of the oldest and most famous temples in Hue. Perched on Ha Khe Hill overlooking the poetic Perfume River, the pagoda was built in 1601 under the reign of Lord Nguyen Hoang, the first Nguyen lord of southern Vietnam. Over more than 400 years of history, Thien Mu has become not only an important Buddhist center but also a cultural and spiritual symbol of Hue.

History of Thien Mu pagoda

• 1601: Thien Mu Pagoda was commenced under the reign of Nguyễn Hoàng.
• 1665: Lord Nguyễn Phúc Tần ordered the pagoda to be repaired and expanded.
• 1710: Lord Nguyễn Phúc Chu had the Great Bronze Bell (commonly known as the Thien Mu Bell) cast, weighing 2,052 kg.
• 1844: Emperor Thiệu Trị conducted major renovations, adding the Phước Duyên Tower (originally named Từ Nhân Tower, 7 stories high), the Hương Nguyện Pavilion, and erecting two steles inscribing the Emperor’s poetry.
• 1862: Emperor Tự Đức changed the pagoda's name to Linh Mu as the word "Thiên" (Heaven) was considered taboo. However, locals continued to use the name Thien Mu, hence the pagoda has two names.
• 1993: Thien Mu Pagoda was recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Relic.
• 2015: Lonely Planet voted Thien Mu Pagoda as one of the most beautiful pagodas in Asia.

Directions to Thien Mu pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda is situated on Hà Khê hill, by the Perfume River, approximately 5 km West of Hue city center. Visitors can easily get there by various means of transport such as motorbike, car, or bicycle.

From Lê Lợi street, turn onto Bùi Thị Xuân, cross Dã Viên bridge, and continue straight on Kim Long street. When you reach Nguyễn Phúc Nguyên street, Linh Mu Pagoda is right on the bank of the Perfume River.

Discovering the unique architecture of Thien Mu pagoda

Phuoc Duyen Tower

The Phuoc Duyen Tower is the most iconic structure of Thien Mu Pagoda. Built in 1844 during the reign of Emperor Thieu Tri, the octagonal tower stands 21 meters high with seven stories, each dedicated to a different Buddha, symbolizing the spiritual journey from the earthly world to enlightenment. Inside, a spiral staircase leads to the top, evoking a sense of ascending from the human realm to the Buddha’s domain. 

The tower, made entirely of brick on a solid stone base, faces the peaceful Perfume River — a perfect blend of majesty and serenity.

Tam Quan Gate

Situated behind the Phuoc Duyen Tower, the Tam Quan Gate serves as the main entrance to the pagoda. It beautifully combines the aesthetics of imperial architecture with traditional Vietnamese temple design. The gate features three doorways, representing the Three Gates of Liberation - Emptiness, Signlessness, and Aimlessness - guiding pilgrims from the secular world into the spiritual one. 

The structure has two stories and eight layered roofs, creating an imposing yet graceful appearance, while the two Guardian Statues flanking the entrance stand as protectors of the sacred grounds.

Dai Hung Hall

The Dai Hung Hall is the main sanctuary of Thien Mu Pagoda, dedicated to Sakyamuni Buddha, along with Bodhisattvas and Dharma Protectors. Built in traditional Vietnamese architectural style, the hall features tiled roofs, lacquered wooden beams gilded with gold, and calligraphic panels conveying deep Buddhist teachings. 

Inside, the solemn atmosphere and ancient décor invite visitors to meditate and reflect. At the center sits a statue of Shakyamuni Buddha on a lotus throne, surrounded by intricate reliefs illustrating his sermons — a sacred place for prayer, reflection, and inner peace.

Notes when visiting Thien Mu Pagoda

• Dress code: Wear respectful, modest clothing. Avoid shorts, sleeveless tops, or revealing outfits to show reverence in this sacred space.
• Visiting hours: The pagoda opens early in the morning and closes around 6 p.m. (may stay open longer on full moon days and the first day of the lunar month). Plan your visit before closing time.
• Sunset check-in: If possible, stay between 5:00–6:00 p.m. to admire the romantic sunset over the Perfume River from Ha Khe Hill near the pagoda.

If you are looking for an ancient and peaceful destination in Hue, Thien Mu Hue is the ideal choice. Visiting this sacred pagoda, you will feel the full spiritual beauty and gentleness of the heritage city.

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