One Pillar Pagoda (couple trip)
How Couple-Friendly is One Pillar Pagoda?
What makes it 81% Couple-Friendly: Couples get picturesque lotus-pond selfies, shared incense rituals, and calm benches for reflection; the brief, low-cost stop is romantic, though the small platform limits lingering.
Positives:
- Intimate Setting: Compact grounds offer a quiet space perfect for couples.
- Central Location: Next to Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and Presidential Palace, easy to include in a half-day tour.
Challenges:
- Limited Amenities: No cafés or rest areas inside the pagoda grounds.
- Crowds at Midday: Tours often arrive between 10 AM–2 PM, making photos harder.
What is One Pillar Pagoda?
- A Buddhist temple originally erected in 1049 by Emperor Lý Thái Tông and reconstructed in 1955 to honor its historic design
- A lotus-shaped shrine supported by a single stone pillar rising from a reflective lotus pond
- An exemplar of Ly dynasty architecture, notable for its symbolic compact design and poetic aesthetics in central Hanoi
What is so special about One Pillar Pagoda for couple trip?
- Unique single-pillar lotus design over a reflective pond
- Quick photo stop with stunning backdrops
- Light incense together for a shared cultural ritual
- Peak spiritual moments on full-moon days
- Central spot ideal for half-day couple itineraries
Recommended visit duration: 10-30 minutes
Why 10-30 minutes visit duration is ideal for couple trip: Enough time for couples to take photos, light incense, and reflect by the pond.
Couple-Friendly Activities in One Pillar Pagoda
Take Romantic Photos at Lotus Platform:
Use the raised shrine and its reflection on the pond for couple portraits.
Tip: Visit at sunrise for calm water and soft light.
Light Incense and Make a Shared Wish:
Buy incense sticks and flowers to pray at the Avalokitesvara altar.
Tip: Split a bundle of incense and agree on one wish each.
Sit by the Pond for Quiet Reflection:
Relax on a bench by the lotus pond to enjoy peaceful surroundings.
Tip: Pick a spot on the north side to avoid direct sun.
Attend Full-Moon Day Chanting:
Join local worshippers for sutra readings on lunar full-moon days.
Tip: Check a lunar calendar and arrive early to find space.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to One Pillar Pagoda
- Early Arrival: Enter before 8 AM to enjoy tranquility and better light.
- Combine Nearby Stops: Walk to the Presidential Palace and Hoa Lo Prison Museum afterward.
Reviews of One Pillar Pagoda
Nandagopal Damodaran
This place is a must visit - you can find some fantastic pagodas/architecture with lot of similar culture and practices similar to India. Expect lot of tourist here as this place is a popular destination. The lake view surrounding this place is also very nice.
santosh Ghimire
One Pillar Pagoda is a unique and peaceful temple in Hanoi with beautiful traditional architecture. It’s small but full of cultural and spiritual significance. A great spot for photos and to experience Vietnam’s rich history and Buddhist heritage.
Han Nguyen
An ancient pagoda with the unique architecture, built in the Ly dynasty, abt a thousand years ago (the temple was demolished in the war 1954 and rebuilt right after that). The king Ly built this pagoda after his dream of the female Buddhist goddess. The pagoda is to worship and expresses his thanks to Quan Am Bo Tat. This is a spiritual and cultural symbol of Hanoi.
thehCOACH “The Honest Review”
The One Pillar Pagoda in Hanoi, Vietnam, is one of the country’s most iconic and unique Buddhist temples. Built in 1049 during the reign of Emperor Lý Thái Tông, it was designed to resemble a lotus blossom, symbolizing purity and enlightenment. The entire structure stands on a single stone pillar, rising from a serene lotus pond — giving it its name. It’s a great place to visit, especially since ...
Laiju Lazar
The One Pillar Pagoda, located near the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum, is a unique temple built on a single stone pillar, symbolizing a lotus flower. Dating back to 1049, it’s a beautiful and peaceful spot with deep spiritual meaning. Free entry and a must-visit when in Hanoi.
When is the best time to visit One Pillar Pagoda (Hanoi, Vietnam)?
Full-moon days and Vesak festivals offer live chanting. Avoid heavy rain (June–August) to keep paths dry.
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Typical Budget for a Couple (2 Adults)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Incense sticks | VND 10,000 |
| Bottled water | VND 15,000 |
| Total Estimated | VND 25,000 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of One Pillar Pagoda
Address: 2RPM+79G, P. Chùa Một Cột, Đội Cấn, Ba Đình, Hà Nội 100000, Vietnam
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About One Pillar Pagoda
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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