Tiêu Temple

About

Tiêu Temple is associated with Zen master Vạn Hạnh, King Lý Công Uẩn and Zen master Như Trí. On the slope of Tiêu Mountain, its stupa garden and records help visitors explore the Buddhist history of Kinh Bắc.

Visitor information

Founded

Introductory sources trace it to the Early Lê period; it has undergone many restorations.

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

Sườn núi Tiêu, phường Tam Sơn, tỉnh Bắc Ninh; trước đây thuộc Tương Giang, Từ Sơn.

Highlights

• ✓The statue of Zen master Vạn Hạnh on Tiêu Mountain.
• ✓The ancient stupa garden.
• ✓Relics associated with Zen master Như Trí.
• ✓Stelae and materials concerning the Lý dynasty.

History and origins

Local materials trace the temple to the Early Lê period, with Thiên Tâm Temple on the mountain and Trường Liêu Temple at its foot. It was expanded in the Later Lê restoration period and repaired under the Nguyễn dynasty and later. Remains and written sources preserve memories of Zen master Vạn Hạnh and the early Lý dynasty; its present appearance results from several building phases.

Architecture & surroundings

The principal structures include the Three Jewels hall, patriarch hall, guesthouse and bell pavilion. A statue of Zen master Vạn Hạnh stands on the mountain; the grounds preserve ancient stupas, wooden Buddha statues, a bell and stelae. The preserved bodily remains of Zen master Như Trí, enshrined in statue form, require reverent viewing and careful conservation.

Cultural value

The temple commemorates the role of Zen masters in history and the transmission of Buddhist teachings. The Lý gia linh thạch stele and local traditional accounts are cultural sources that should be read in the context in which each arose.

Events & festivals

The temple commemorates National Preceptor Vạn Hạnh; Giác Ngộ records the memorial day as the full moon of the fifth lunar month. Please follow temple announcements for each year’s service time and programme.