Lower and Upper Temples of Tây Yên Tử

About

The Lower and Upper temples are two Buddhist worship destinations in Tây Yên Tử on the western slopes of the Yên Tử range. The journey combines architecture, the life of Buddha-King Trần Nhân Tông and mountain-forest scenery.

Visitor information

Founded

The modern complex developed from planning in 2014 and is associated with the Trúc Lâm pilgrimage route.

Visiting hours

The operator’s website lists 6:30–18:00, with exceptions near the end of the lunar year. Please confirm visiting and cable-car hours for your chosen day.

Fees

Cable cars, electric vehicles and parking are separately priced services. The price table currently shown on the website carries an issue date in late 2022; to avoid relying on outdated prices, please check directly with the operator before purchasing tickets.

Address

Khu du lịch tâm linh – sinh thái Tây Yên Tử, khu vực Mậu, xã Tây Yên Tử, tỉnh Bắc Ninh; trước đây thuộc huyện Sơn Động, Bắc Giang.

Highlights

• ✓The Lower Temple, Phật Quang Thiền Temple.
• ✓The Upper Temple, Linh Thông Thiền Temple.
• ✓Statues narrating the Buddha-King’s life.
• ✓The western slopes of Yên Tử.

History and origins

The complex was built to introduce the Trúc Lâm tradition’s path of spreading Buddhist teachings. Local tourism sources record planning launched in 2014 and the Lower and Upper temple works as substantially complete before the 2019 spring festival. The present buildings are modern constructions, not an entirely surviving Trần-dynasty complex.

Architecture & surroundings

According to the operator, the Lower Temple is named Phật Quang Thiền Temple and includes a three-entrance gateway, front hall, upper sanctuary and patriarch hall. The Upper Temple, Linh Thông Thiền Temple, stands higher on the mountain. A square, cable-car route and walking paths connect the sites; Đồng Temple is a further destination on the Yên Tử summit.

Cultural value

The pilgrimage route introduces Trúc Lâm thought and the Buddha-King’s life through statues, worship spaces and spring-festival activities. The mountain forests are an important part of the visiting experience.

Events & festivals

Tây Yên Tử holds a spring festival with cultural activities and Buddhist ceremonies. Programmes, opening dates and visitor routes are announced each year; check the tourism area’s notices before your pilgrimage.