Diệc Temple

About

Diệc is an old temple within urban Vinh, where a historic three-entrance gate and stone steles survive alongside newer study and practice buildings. The name Tùng Lâm Diệc Cổ is associated with its role as a Buddhist centre of Nghệ An.

Visitor information

Founded

Local introductions trace it to the late Trần period; it has been rebuilt and restored many times.

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

Đường Quang Trung, phường Thành Vinh, tỉnh Nghệ An; trước đây thuộc phường Quang Trung, thành phố Vinh.

Highlights

• ✓Historic three-entrance gate and stone steles
• ✓Reconstructed Great Hero Hall
• ✓A place of Buddhist study and practice in central Vinh

History and origins

Tourism sources trace the temple to the late Trần period; the story of herons bringing rain is a folk legend. The temple was rebuilt in 1742 and developed further under the Nguyễn dynasty. Following a period of deterioration, a restoration project was approved in 2013. By 2022, the Great Hero Hall had been completed, expanding ceremonial and study space beside the surviving historic remains.

Architecture & surroundings

The old three-entrance gate has several tiers, arched openings and inlaid decoration; two stone steles are important surviving traces. Alongside them, a three-storey Three Jewels hall serves Buddhist study and practice, combining traditional roof forms with spacious interiors suitable for large ceremonies.

Cultural value

The temple is associated with Buddhist life in Nghệ An and the cultural memory of Vinh. It is also mentioned in the story of the discovery of a manuscript of Nguyễn Du's Văn chiêu hồn, illustrating the relationship between monasteries and literary heritage.

Events & festivals

The temple holds observances of the Buddha's birthday and Vu Lan, monastic retreats and study activities. Schedules may change with the monastery's programmes. Please consult announcements before attending.