Chapter 59 of 72 in Hà Nội: Renowned Historic Buddhist Temples · pages 575–583
Thầy Temple
Thiên Phúc Temple
Chùa Thầy
The main temple of the Sài Sơn complex, tied to Zen Master Từ Đạo Hạnh and built in the “Buddha in front, Saint behind” plan. It is known for its festival and water puppetry at the Water Pavilion on Long Trì Lake.
Key facts
- Address
- Đa Phúc and Thụy Khuê hamlets, Quốc Oai Commune · Open in Google Maps
- Founded
- Founded c. 1107–1108 under Lý Nhân Tông
- Heritage status
- Special national architectural-artistic site (Decision 313/QĐ, 1962)
- Lineage
- other lineage
- Book pages
- 575–583
Highlights
- “Buddha in front, Saint behind” plan, with no triple gate
- Nhật Tiên and Nguyệt Tiên bridges, Water Pavilion on Long Trì Lake
- Festival from the 5th to 8th of the third lunar month
Milestones
- 1107 The temple was founded, around 1107–1108
- 1109 The great bell was cast, with an inscription by Huệ Hưng
- 1538 Lady Thái Chiêu Nghi and family restored the Water Pavilion
- 1656 Major restoration began, lasting to 1666, creating three parallel halls
- 1794 The temple's bell was recast
- 1957 The state restored the temple following scientific conservation principles
From the book
Thầy Temple, formally known as Thiên Phúc Temple, is located in the villages of Đa Phúc and Thụy Khuê, Quốc Oai Commune, Hà Nội. Originally, it was merely the Hương Hải Hermitage where Zen Master Từ Đạo Hạnh practiced. Over time, it gradually evolved into a major Buddhist and spiritual center for the region. The local people call it Thầy Temple (Master’s Temple) in his honor.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Thầy Temple?
Thầy Temple is located at Đa Phúc and Thụy Khuê hamlets, Quốc Oai Commune, Hà Nội, Vietnam.
When was Thầy Temple founded?
Founded c. 1107–1108 under Lý Nhân Tông
Is Thầy Temple a ranked heritage site?
Special national architectural-artistic site (Decision 313/QĐ, 1962)
Which Zen lineage is Thầy Temple associated with?
According to the book, the temple is associated with the other lineage tradition.
What is the formal name of Thầy Temple?
Its formal (literary) name is Thiên Phúc Temple.