The Old Quarter contains 9+ historic temples and shrines dating back to Hanoi’s 11th-century founding. From Bach Ma Temple (the city’s oldest, 9th century) to Ngoc Son Temple inside Hoan Kiem Lake, these sacred sites preserve 1,000+ years of Vietnamese spirituality. This complete guide to Hanoi Old Quarter temples for 2026 covers the most important sacred sites, their history, and how to visit respectfully.
Top Old Quarter Temples to Visit
1. Bach Ma Temple (76 Hang Buom)
The oldest temple in the Old Quarter. Built in the 11th century under Emperor Ly Thai To. One of the four guarding temples of ancient Thang Long (Hanoi), protecting the eastern gate. Free entry. Designated a national historical relic in 1986.
2. Ngoc Son Temple (Hoan Kiem Lake)
Established 1841, renovated 1864. Cross the iconic red Huc Bridge to reach the temple. Dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao (military hero), Van Xuong (patron saint of scholars), and La To (patron saint of physicians). Inside, see a preserved giant soft-shell turtle from the lake. Entry 50,000 VND.
3. Quan Thanh Temple (West Lake Edge)
Adjacent to West Lake just north of Old Quarter. 11th-century Taoist temple guarding the city’s northern gate. Famous bronze statue of Tran Vu (4 m tall, 4 tons). Free entry.
4. Tran Quoc Pagoda (West Lake)
Hanoi’s oldest Buddhist pagoda (1,500 years), set on a small island in West Lake. 5-minute walk from Quan Thanh. Free entry; donations welcome.
5. Den Ba Kieu (Hoan Kiem Lake)
Small temple opposite Ngoc Son on the eastern shore of Hoan Kiem Lake. Traditional Vietnamese temple architecture.
6. Yen Thai Temple
17 Hang Vai. Small Old Quarter temple dedicated to Linh Lang.
7. Den Voi Phuc
The west-gate guarding temple. Just outside Old Quarter near Thu Le Park.
8. Den Hai Ba Trung
Dedicated to the Trung Sisters who led the first Vietnamese resistance against Chinese rule (40 AD). Located in Hai Ba Trung District near the French Quarter.
9. Cau Dong Temple (Hang Duong)
Tucked off Sugar Street. 12th-century temple with traditional architecture.
Temple Visit Etiquette
- Cover shoulders and knees. Avoid tank tops and short shorts.
- Remove shoes before entering main halls.
- Lower voices to a whisper.
- Don’t point feet at the altar.
- Don’t turn your back on the Buddha statue.
- Photography generally OK in courtyards; ask before photographing inside altars.
- Donations welcome — small notes appreciated, not required.
- Don’t touch sacred objects or hand statues.
- Bow respectfully when entering main halls.
Self-Guided Old Quarter Temple Tour (90 minutes)
Stop 1: Hoan Kiem Lake (10 min)
Begin at the lake’s northeast corner. Photograph Turtle Tower and the Huc Bridge.
Stop 2: Ngoc Son Temple (30 min)
Cross the Huc Bridge. Explore the temple courtyards. View the giant soft-shell turtle. Entry 50,000 VND.
Stop 3: Den Ba Kieu (10 min)
Small temple on the eastern shore. Traditional architecture.
Stop 4: Bach Ma Temple (20 min)
Walk north through the Old Quarter to 76 Hang Buom. The Old Quarter’s oldest temple. Free entry.
Stop 5: Cau Dong Temple (10 min)
Tucked off Hang Duong (Sugar Street). 12th-century temple.
Stop 6: Walk back to Hoan Kiem Lake (10 min)
Festival Periods at Old Quarter Temples
Tet (Lunar New Year, late Jan-mid Feb)
The most important temple visit period. Locals visit ancestral and patron temples.
Lunar 1st and 15th of Each Month
Family temple visits with offerings.
Bach Ma Temple Festival (12th-13th day of 2nd lunar month)
Annual festival celebrating the temple’s patron deity.
Mid-Autumn Festival (September)
Lantern processions and temple visits.
Old Quarter Temples FAQs
Are temples free?
Most are free with optional donations. Ngoc Son Temple charges 50,000 VND.
Can I take photos?
In courtyards usually yes. Inside altar areas, ask first or skip.
What should I wear?
Cover shoulders and knees. Closed shoes preferred.
Are temples open to non-Buddhists?
Yes — all welcome. Be respectful.
What are typical opening hours?
6:00 AM-6:00 PM. Some larger temples extend to 9:00 PM during festivals.
Can I make offerings?
Yes — incense, fruit, flowers, or small money donations. Available at temple shops.
How long for temple visits?
15-30 minutes per temple. 90-120 minutes for a full Old Quarter temple tour.
Should I hire a guide?
Optional. Most temples have basic English signage. Free walking tours from Hoan Kiem Lake include temple stops.
Visit Hanoi’s Sacred Old Quarter Sites
The Old Quarter’s temples preserve 1,000+ years of Vietnamese spirituality. With this guide you have the 9 most important sacred sites and how to visit respectfully. Pair this guide with our Old Quarter pillar guide, our cultural experiences guide, and our culture & history pillar.
