Dec - 31 - 2025
Chua Dau Festival, held annually in Thuong Phuc Commune (formerly Thuong Tin District), Hanoi, is a celebration of spirituality, heritage, and Vietnamese cultural identity. Each year, thousands of visitors gather to honor sacred traditions, enjoy vibrant rituals, and experience the richness of community life. For travelers looking to explore this event in depth, GTrip provides practical insights into the festival’s highlights, timing, and local cultural context.
Chua Dau - An ancient spiritual landmark in Hanoi
Dau Pagoda is located in Gia Phuc village, Thuong Phuc Commune (foremrly Thuong Tin district), about 25 km from the center of Hanoi. The pagoda is also known by several other names such as Phap Vu Temple or Thanh Dao Temple. It is closely associated with the period when Buddhism was first introduced to the Red River Delta region.
The pagoda worships Goddess Phap Vu, a Bodhisattva believed to have manifested here, carrying the mission of enlightening and protecting the people. With its unique combination of architectural beauty, historical value, and spiritual significance, Dau Pagoda has long been regarded as a sacred destination for pilgrims and travelers alike.
Throughout different historical eras, Dau Pagoda has remained a symbol of Vietnamese cultural identity. It has been visited by emperors, scholars, and villagers alike, from those praying for career success to farmers seeking blessings for good health and abundant harvests.
Dau Pagoda attracts many Buddhists who come to visit the scenery and offer incense
Chua Dau (Dau Pagoda) Festival - A vibrant spring celebration
The Dau Pagoda Festival takes place over three days, from the 8th to the 10th of the first lunar month each year. However, even from the first day of Tet, locals and pilgrims already flock to the pagoda to pray for peace and good fortune. As the official festival days approach, the atmosphere becomes even more lively with visitors from all over Vietnam.
Dau Pagoda spring opening ceremony
On the 8th day of the first lunar month, the people former Thuong Tin district witness the grand opening ceremony of the festival. This event marks the beginning of the new year, filled with hopes and prayers for peace and national prosperity
In a solemn and sacred atmosphere, the ritual of offering to Goddess Phap Vu and the Four Dharma deities is conducted at the pagoda’s main sanctuary. Presided over by village elders, the ritual follows ancient traditions, expressing deep reverence for the deities who govern rain, wind, and harvests. The ceremony symbolizes the community’s prayers for favorable weather, bountiful crops, and overall well-being.
The spring festival opening ceremony marks the beginning of the new year
The grand palanquin procession
On the 9th day of the first lunar month, the highlight of the festival unfolds with the procession ceremony. Residents from nine surrounding villages gather in their finest traditional costumes, carrying flags and decorated offerings. Together, they respectfully escort the village’s tutelary gods in palanquins to Dau Pagoda for rituals of peace and prosperity.
The Bat Cong palanquin set, carried by 80 strong villagers, is a striking symbol of community strength and unity. This grand procession reflects solidarity and plays a crucial role in preserving and promoting Vietnam’s age-old traditions.
A highlight of the Dau Pagoda Festival is the procession of the palanquin
Cultural activities and folk entertainment
Beyond the solemn rituals, the Chua Dau Festival offers a lively cultural space filled with music, games, and community spirit. Visitors can enjoy cheo, quan ho singing, and boat songs, which showcase the charm of northern folk culture. The festival grounds also come alive with traditional games like tug-of-war, Chinese chess, and village contests, inviting everyone to take part. A special highlight is the tree planting ceremony, symbolizing blessings and prosperity for the year ahead. Together, these activities blend entertainment with tradition, making the festival both joyful and meaningful.
The meaning of Chua Dau Festival in Hanoi
The Chua Dau Festival is a symbol of gratitude and community connection. It strengthens bonds between people, reminds them of their shared cultural roots, and promotes traditional values in modern society. The festival also plays a vital role in introducing Vietnamese culture to international visitors. As spring arrives each year, the Dau Pagoda Festival reaffirms its place as an essential part of Vietnamese cultural and spiritual life. It is not only a sacred pilgrimage but also an endless source of inspiration for those who wish to explore the depth of Vietnam’s traditions.
Dau Pagoda Festival is a significant and grand event marking the start of spring in Hanoi
As spring arrives, the Chua Dau Festival in Hanoi stands out as both a destination of devotion and a living symbol of Vietnam’s cultural identity. If you plan to travel to Vietnam in early spring, do not miss this vibrant celebration. Travel to Vietnam during Lunar New Year to experience the lively and sacred atmosphere of festivals!
