Temple of Literature

Văn Miếu

Vietnam's oldest university and a serene temple complex dedicated to Confucius, the Temple of Literature showcases classical Vietnamese architecture and centuries of educational heritage. It's a peaceful oasis in Hanoi featuring beautiful courtyards and historical artifacts.

Things to do

• Explore the Five Courtyards — Walk through the sequentially arranged courtyards that represent the progression of classical education, each with distinct architectural features and symbolic landscaping.
• Visit the Turtle Stele Pavilion — Observe the ancient stone turtle stelae inscribed with names of past doctorate graduates, a remarkable record of Vietnam's academic excellence spanning centuries.
• Tour the National University Museum — Learn about Vietnam's imperial examination system and educational history through artifacts, manuscripts, and displays housed within the temple complex.
• Participate in a Calligraphy Workshop — Join guided sessions where you can practice traditional Vietnamese and Chinese calligraphy using brushes and ink on rice paper, led by local artisans.
• Attend the Confucius Ceremony — Witness traditional rituals and music performances dedicated to Confucius held on special occasions, showcasing Vietnam's reverence for the sage and scholarly traditions.
• Photograph the Gate of Great Achievement — Capture the iconic red-lacquered Gate at the temple entrance, one of Hanoi's most recognizable landmarks featuring classical Vietnamese architectural design.

Food to try

• Phở Tái — Vietnam's iconic beef noodle soup with rare beef slices and aromatic broth, widely available at nearby Old Quarter restaurants and street stalls.
• Bánh Chưng — Square sticky rice cake filled with mung bean and pork, traditionally eaten during Tet celebrations and sold at local vendors around the temple area.
• Chả Cá Lã Vọng — Hanoi's signature turmeric fish dish served with fresh herbs and rice noodles, a specialty found in nearby restaurants on Chả Cá Street just minutes away.
• Egg Coffee — Hanoi's unique creation of dark Vietnamese coffee topped with a creamy egg yolk foam, found at historic cafés throughout the Old Quarter near the temple.
• Bún Chả — Grilled pork patties and sliced pork belly served with rice vermicelli and dipping sauce, a beloved Hanoi specialty found at street vendors in the surrounding streets.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Respectfully — Wear modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees as a sign of respect in this sacred Confucian temple, following Vietnamese cultural conventions for religious sites.
• Remove Shoes in Certain Areas — Pay attention to signage and follow local visitors by removing footwear when entering inner sanctuaries and prayer halls within the temple complex.
• Quiet Contemplation Expected — Maintain low voices and avoid loud conversations as the temple is an active place of worship and study where Vietnamese people come for reflection and spiritual practice.
• Photography Restrictions — Ask permission before photographing in certain inner chambers and during ceremonies, as some areas prohibit flash photography to preserve the sacred atmosphere.