Quán Sứ Temple

About

Quán Sứ is a historic temple in central Hà Nội and the headquarters of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha. Alongside worship, a visit offers insight into milestones of Buddhist revival and unification in Vietnam.

Visitor information

Founded

Origins in the Lê period; rebuilt in 1942.

Visiting hours

Visiting hours may vary with the practice schedule; please ask the temple before your trip.

Fees

No fee has been confirmed by the temple. Please consult notices at the destination; services outside the temple may be charged separately.

Address

73 phố Quán Sứ, phường Cửa Nam, Hà Nội; khu vực quận Hoàn Kiếm trước đây.

Highlights

• ✓The gateway, bell pavilion and courtyard on Quán Sứ Street.
• ✓Plaques and paired inscriptions in the Vietnamese Latin-based script.
• ✓A site associated with the 1981 Buddhist unification congress.

History and origins

The name Quán Sứ is associated with the historical reception of envoys; commonly available sources trace the temple to the Lê period. It was rebuilt in 1942. In November 1981 (11/1981), it hosted the congress unifying Buddhist organisations and traditions to establish the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha.

Architecture & surroundings

The three-entrance gateway has tiered roofs and a bell pavilion; a brick courtyard leads to the raised main hall surrounded by corridors. Inside, tiers of Buddha statues are arranged reverently. The temple name and many paired inscriptions in the Vietnamese Latin-based script are distinctive features.

Cultural value

Quán Sứ is linked to Buddhist education, research, publishing and exchange. Its value therefore lies in both architecture and its role as a witness to the history of the Buddhist Sangha.

Events & festivals

The temple hosts many Buddhist activities and Sangha events. Services, conferences and programmes for lay Buddhists are announced for each occasion; please check the latest schedule before visiting.