Cao Linh Temple

About

Cao Linh Temple stands out for its large gateway, elaborately decorated buildings and grounds containing many Buddha statues. Located in the An Dương area, it has been restored in different periods and underwent substantial development in the early decades of the 21st century.

Visitor information

Founded

The temple has ancient origins, but available sources do not agree on its founding year.

Visiting hours

Visiting hours may vary with the temple's daily religious schedule. Please contact the temple before your visit.

Fees

No fee has been confirmed by the temple. Please check the information posted on arrival; outside services may be charged separately.

Address

Khu vực Bắc Hà, xã Bắc Sơn, huyện An Dương trước đây, thành phố Hải Phòng.

Highlights

• ✓A large gateway with striking decoration.
• ✓The Great Hero Hall, devotional statues and landscaped grounds.
• ✓Documented study, practice and life-skills activities for children and young people.

History and origins

Materials about the temple relate its founding tradition to local residents and note traces of repairs from the Later Lê period. Existing sources do not agree on the founding year. In the early 21st century, care, restoration and expansion continued. Today's large buildings reflect those construction phases as well as the continuity of the old temple.

Architecture & surroundings

The first striking feature is the large gateway with multiple passages and dense decoration. Inside are the Great Hero Hall, landscaped courtyards, devotional statues and tower-like structures. Tiled roofs, borders, reliefs and colour create a varied architectural appearance. Visitors can appreciate both the gardens as a whole and details of the halls, while following directions for each area.

Cultural value

Alongside Buddhist worship, the temple provides activities promoting good habits and practical skills among young people. A Hải Phòng Police report in 2023 described fire-prevention, firefighting and evacuation instruction for retreat participants, illustrating cooperation between the temple and the community.

Events & festivals

The summer retreat “Để cho con trưởng thành” (Helping Children Grow) was held in 2023, combining Buddhist study and practice with fire prevention, firefighting and drowning-prevention skills. Families are kindly invited to ask the temple about retreat dates, participation requirements and upcoming religious celebrations.