Discover one of Hanoi's most iconic and unique Buddhist temples, the One Pillar Pagoda (Chùa Một Cột). Originally constructed in the 11th century by Emperor Ly Thai Tong, this small yet historically significant pagoda is renowned for its distinctive architecture, designed to resemble a lotus flower blossoming elegantly from a serene pond. It stands as a powerful symbol of purity and Buddhist enlightenment.
The pagoda itself is a small wooden structure resting on a single, sturdy stone pillar planted in the middle of a square lotus pond. This unique design is based on a legend involving the emperor's dream. While the original structure has been rebuilt over the centuries due to damage, its iconic form remains a beloved symbol of Hanoi, located conveniently within the larger Ho Chi Minh Complex area near the Mausoleum and museum.
Visiting the One Pillar Pagoda offers a chance to admire its unique architectural design and appreciate its deep historical and cultural significance. Although the visit itself might be brief due to the pagoda's small size, its symbolic beauty and legendary origins make it a must-see landmark for anyone exploring the historical and cultural treasures of Hanoi.