Bach Ma Temple: History, Architecture, Things To Do & Travel Guide

In the vibrant tapestry of Vietnam's spiritual landscape, Bach Ma Temple stands as a timeless testament to ancient traditions and cultural harmony. Tucked in Hanoi's Old Quarter, this sacred site blends myth and history, reflecting centuries of Vietnamese identity. For travelers seeking a deeper connection with the local heritage, Bach Ma Temple offers its intricate ancient carvings and stories whispered by time itself. As you traverse its hallowed halls, you'll discover how this revered shrine encapsulates both devotion and legend in its every corner. At GTrip, we explore why Bach Ma Temple belongs on your itinerary in Hanoi and highlight what makes it a memorable cultural experience.

Overview of Bach Ma Temple

Bach Ma Temple stands as one of Hanoi's most significant historical and spiritual landmarks, holding a special place in the city's rich cultural tapestry. Known as the "Temple of the White Horse", this ancient shrine bears testament to Hanoi's fascinating origins and has witnessed centuries of Vietnamese history unfold. Located in Hanoi's Old Quarter, Bach Ma Temple blends striking architecture with spiritual depth, offering key insights into Vietnam's cultural heritage.

The necessary information about the temple

Bach Ma Temple welcomes visitors looking to experience one of Hanoi's oldest spiritual sites. Here's everything you need to know before planning your visit:

Location and access:

• Address: 76 Hang Buom Street, Hanoi Old Quarter
• Landmark proximity: Within walking distance of Hoan Kiem Lake and other Old Quarter attractions

Visiting hours and admission:

• Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 11:00 AM and 2:00 PM - 8:00 PM daily
• Entry fee: Free admission for all visitors

Etiquette and dress code:

• Attire requirements: Modest clothes that cover shoulders and knees
• Footwear: Shoes must be removed before entering the main worship areas
• Behavior: Speak quietly and avoid pointing at sacred objects or statues
• Offerings: You can purchase incense sticks at nearby shops if they wish to participate

Bach Ma Temple's modest size belies its historical significance. The temple complex consists of several interconnected chambers and courtyards, with the main sanctuary housing the principal altar. Bach Ma Temple offers an intimate look at traditional worship in a timeless setting unlike larger complexes.

Bach Ma Temple is a small yet historically rich shrine in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, offering a quiet, authentic glimpse into the city’s spiritual heritage

Whom does Bach Ma Temple honor? A history of Bach Ma Temple in Hanoi

Bach Ma Temple is one of the "Four Sacred Temples of Thang Long", four spiritual guardian temples that protected the ancient capital in all four directions. According to historical records, the temple was originally built in 866 during the Tang dynasty to worship Long Do, a local deity believed to have defended Dai La against dark magic. Long Do’s power was so great that even the Chinese governor Cao Bien, known for his geomantic abilities, was defeated. He ultimately conferred upon the deity the title: "Divine Guardian of the Capital Citadel".

In the 10th century, during his campaign to unify the country, Dinh Bo Linh stopped at the Long Do Temple east of the Dai La Citadel to pray. He vowed to bestow a divine title on the deity if victorious. After becoming emperor, Dinh Tien Hoang dreamed of the White Horse Spirit, who reminded him that proper rites were still due. Upon waking, the emperor granted the deity a grand official title. He also ordered the construction of another temple in the hometown of his Empress, Duong Thi Nguyet.

In 1010, as King Ly Thai To moved the capital from Hoa Lu to Thang Long, the construction of the new royal citadel met with repeated failure-walls kept collapsing. While praying at the Long Do Temple, he reportedly saw a white horse emerge from the sanctuary, circle the area, and vanish. The king followed the horse’s footprints, which marked a stable location to build the citadel. Construction proceeded smoothly from then on. From that moment, Long Do, in the form of the White Horse Spirit, was worshipped as the Guardian Deity of the Capital.

Over the centuries, Bach Ma Temple has undergone numerous renovations. By the late 17th century, the temple’s foundation was raised and expanded. In 1781, Lord Trinh granted residents of the surrounding Mat Thai, Bac Thuong, and Bac Ha wards in the Ha Khau precinct the right to make offerings at the temple. They were exempt from taxes and labor obligations. In 1829, the temple was further adorned, and by 1839, it featured a Confucian shrine and a central pavilion for seasonal rituals. Today, the temple reflects Nguyen dynasty architecture, featuring a distinctive crab-shell-shaped vaulted roof that elegantly links its sections.

The architecture of Bach Ma Temple

Bach Ma Temple is a remarkable example of traditional Vietnamese religious architecture, blending centuries of cultural influence and masterful craftsmanship. Its design reflects classic northern Vietnamese style, carefully preserved through restorations.

The temple stands out in Hanoi’s Old Quarter with its striking yellow walls and red wooden doors adorned with golden dragons, symbols of imperial power and spiritual protection. The color scheme of yellow (earth and royalty) and red (prosperity) enhances its sacred atmosphere and imperial ties.

The temple’s wooden framework, supported by durable ironwood columns, exemplifies traditional carpentry. The roof follows the sophisticated “gia chieng chong ruong con nhi” style, a nail-free system of interlocking beams and decorative brackets. This structure ensures resilience through the centuries.

A key feature is the crab-shell-shaped vaulted roof, serving both function and symbolism. Its curved eaves and elevated ridges support ventilation, rain protection, and convey harmony between heaven and earth.

Inside, the Dai Bai (Main Hall) is richly adorned with carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and folk motifs. Gold leaf and lacquer add depth and symbolism, while calligraphy panels express moral and philosophical ideals.

At the spiritual center stands the White Horse statue, believed to have guided King Ly Thai To in choosing the citadel’s site. The statue is carved with traditional techniques, surrounded by ritual objects and an altar featuring lotus motifs, representing enlightenment. Each detail of Bach Ma Temple, from its architecture to its decoration, embodies Vietnam’s spiritual legacy and cultural artistry. It offers visitors a profound connection to the country’s heritage.

Bach Ma Temple features traditional northern Vietnamese architecture, with symbolic colors, intricate carvings, and a vaulted roof that reflects its rich cultural

Things to do at Bach Ma Temple

Bach Ma Temple isn't just a historical landmark, it's a living, breathing center of cultural and spiritual practices. You can immerse yourself in authentic Vietnamese religious traditions while appreciating the temple's aesthetic beauty and historical significance. Joining local rituals or admiring its intricate design, Bach Ma Temple offers a rich glimpse into Vietnamese spiritual life and culture.

Observe locals practising their beliefs and burning incense

At Bach Ma Temple, observing the daily rituals of local worshippers offers an authentic window into Vietnamese religious life. Early morning to late afternoon, Hanoi residents come to this sacred site to perform age-old practices, creating an atmosphere filled with quiet reverence and tradition.

Central to worship is the burning of incense, believed to carry prayers to deities and ancestors. You can respectfully watch as devotees light bundles of joss sticks, bow their heads in prayer, and place the incense into ornate bronze urns around the temple. The ritual typically involves choosing an odd number of sticks, lighting them, making silent wishes, and bowing three times in respect.

The most active times are in the early morning and late afternoon, especially on the 1st and 15th days of the lunar month, significant dates in Vietnamese folk belief. While observing, be mindful of your surroundings: keep a respectful distance and avoid flash photography. With polite curiosity, you may find that locals are open to sharing the meaning behind their traditions.

Try praying for luck at Bach Ma Temple

Participating in prayer rituals at Bach Ma Temple offers visitors an immersive cultural experience while respecting local traditions. As one of Hanoi's oldest temples to the White Horse deity, it is revered for offering protection, business success, and safe journeys.

Many Vietnamese believe that sincerity matters more than the perfect execution of rituals. Approach your prayer with genuine respect and openness rather than treating it as a tourist activity. Local temple attendants are often available to guide visitors through proper procedures if you politely request assistance.

Remember that Bach Ma Temple remains an active place of worship rather than simply a tourist attraction. Your participation, while welcome when done respectfully, should acknowledge the genuine spiritual significance this site holds for local devotees.

Joining prayer rituals at Bach Ma Temple offers a respectful way to engage with local spiritual traditions in one of Hanoi’s oldest and most revered sacred sites

Admire the beautifully decorated interior

Bach Ma Temple’s interior showcases traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship, uniting architectural and spiritual elements from various dynasties in a sacred space. The temple’s decorations reflect Vietnam’s cultural and religious heritage through centuries-old symbolism and artistry.

Upon entering the main hall, visitors are immediately struck by the rich red and gold color palette that dominates the space. The red and gold color scheme evokes luck and prosperity, creating a warm, reverent ambiance enhanced by soft natural light. Notable decorative features include:

• Woodcarvings: Elaborate relief carvings depicting scenes from folklore, mythological creatures, and floral motifs adorn pillars and beams
• Lacquerwork: Multiple layers of traditional lacquer in vibrant reds and blacks, often inlaid with mother-of-pearl details
• Calligraphy: Ornate Chinese and Nôm script panels containing poems, blessings, and historical records
• Ceramic elements: Blue and white porcelain offerings and decorative pieces influenced by Chinese ceramic traditions
• Bronze ritual objects: Intricately designed incense burners, gongs, and ceremonial weapons

The centrepiece of the interior is the elaborately carved altar housing statues of deities. The main shrine features the White Horse deity alongside other folk gods associated with protection and prosperity. These statues, often gilded or painted in vibrant colors, are typically adorned with fresh offerings of fruit, flowers, and incense.

Photography is permitted in most areas of the temple interior, though visitors should avoid using flash as it can damage the ancient pigments and disturb worshippers. Top photo spots include the central altar with hanging incense coils, carved roof beams, and the ceremonial palanquin (when on display).

Take time to examine the smaller details often missed by casual visitors, such as the subtle variations in carving styles that reveal different historical renovation periods. Notice also the symbolic animals, dragons, phoenixes, turtles, and unicorns, along with geometric patterns that create visual harmony throughout the space.

Annual festivals and cultural events at Bach Ma Temple

Bach Ma Temple hosts various cultural and spiritual events throughout the year, offering visitors a unique opportunity to experience Hanoi's rich traditions. The most notable celebration is the Bach Ma Temple Festival, held on the 12th and 13th days of the second lunar month, typically in March. This two-day festival honors Long Do, the White Horse deity who is believed to have guided Emperor Ly Thai To in establishing Hanoi. The event features a procession, folk performances, incense offerings, and symbolic animal sacrifices.

In addition to the festival, Bach Ma Temple holds special ceremonies on the 1st and 15th of every lunar month. These dates are considered spiritually significant in Vietnamese tradition, when the connection between the physical and spiritual worlds is thought to be at its strongest. You can witness extended prayers, offerings, and traditional rituals, including monks chanting and devotees burning votive paper items.

Lunar New Year is another important time at the temple, when locals visit to worship their ancestors and pray for a prosperous year ahead. During the first days of Tet, the temple becomes a community hub, with incense filling the air as visitors seek blessings for health, wealth, and happiness in the new year. To attend, it’s best to check the lunar calendar and dress modestly out of respect for the ceremonies.

Bach Ma Temple comes alive during traditional festivals and lunar rituals, offering visitors an authentic glimpse into Hanoi’s vibrant spiritual and cultural life

Best times to visit Bach Ma Temple

When planning your visit to Bach Ma Temple, timing is key in enhancing your experience. The temple's atmosphere changes throughout the day and year, so choosing the right time to visit helps you experience its peaceful ambiance or lively local traditions. If you seek solitude for reflection or wish to witness the temple's cultural significance firsthand, the right time can make all the difference.

For the most peaceful visit, arrive early in the morning, between 6:00 AM and 8:30 AM. The temple is peaceful in the early morning, with soft light highlighting its red and gold details, perfect for reflection and photography. Late afternoon visits after 4:00 PM offer calm, with golden hour light and locals coming for evening prayers. With the temple closing at 6:00 PM, arriving by 4:30 PM gives you ample time to explore. Midday visits, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM, tend to be crowded, making it difficult to fully appreciate the temple's intimate spaces and intricate details.

Culturally, the most significant events occur during the Bach Ma Temple Festival on the 12th and 13th days of the second lunar month, typically in March. Visiting during this time offers a unique chance to witness authentic religious rituals, music, and processions, though expect larger crowds. The 1st and 15th days of each lunar month also attract local worshippers, offering a glimpse into traditional religious practices. For photographers, early mornings and late afternoons provide the best light for capturing the temple's striking contrast with the busy Old Quarter.

How to get to Bach Ma Temple?

Located in Hanoi's Old Quarter, Bach Ma Temple draws visitors to explore Vietnam's oldest temple. This guide offers various transportation options to help you reach the temple based on your budget, time, and preferences.

By car

Traveling to Bach Ma Temple by car offers convenience and comfort, especially for those visiting with families or during Hanoi's extreme weather conditions. The temple is located at 76 Hang Buom Street in the Old Quarter, making it accessible from most parts of the city.

If you're staying in Hanoi, hiring a private car with a driver is often the most comfortable option. Many hotels offer car services ranging from 250,000 to 500,000 VND (approximately $10-20) for half-day trips around the Old Quarter. This option provides air-conditioning during hot summer months and protection during the rainy season (May to September).

For those driving themselves or using ride-hailing services like Grab or Mai Linh, be aware that the Old Quarter's narrow streets can be challenging to navigate. The temple doesn't have dedicated parking, so you'll need to use nearby public parking lots, which typically charge 20,000-30,000 VND ($1-1.5) for a few hours.

By motorbike

Motorbike travel represents the most authentic and flexible way to reach Bach Ma Temple, allowing you to experience Hanoi's vibrant street life just as locals do. This option is particularly popular among backpackers and adventure-seeking travelers.

Renting a motorbike costs approximately 100,000-150,000 VND ($4-6) per day from numerous rental shops throughout Hanoi. If you're comfortable with Hanoi's traffic, this lets you explore the Old Quarter freely and visit nearby attractions at your own pace.

Finding parking near the temple is relatively straightforward for motorbikes compared to cars. Several small parking areas on Hang Buom Street and surrounding alleys charge 5,000-10,000 VND ($0.20-0.40 ) for motorbike parking. Some visitors park at nearby coffee shops or restaurants if they plan to dine there after visiting the temple.

By public transportation (by bus)

Using Hanoi's public bus system provides the most economical option for reaching Bach Ma Temple, with fares costing only 7,000-9,000 VND ($0.30-0.40) per journey. This budget-friendly alternative is particularly suitable for solo travelers and those wanting to minimize their environmental impact.

Three bus routes will get you within walking distance of Bach Ma Temple:

• Bus 18: Connects Long Bien Bus Station to Giap Bat Bus Station
• Bus 32: Runs between Nhan Chinh and Gia Lam Bus Station
• Bus 34: Travels from Hoan Kiem Lake to Gia Lam Bus Station

All three routes stop at Tran Nhat Duat bus station, from which you'll need to walk approximately 500 meters (about 6-7 minutes) to reach the temple. The walking route takes you through vibrant local streets, offering glimpses of authentic Hanoi life that many tourists miss when using private transportation.

You can road to Bach Ma Temple by bus

For the most up-to-date bus information, download the "Timbus" or "Hanoi Bus" apps, which provide real-time schedules and route maps in English. Buses typically run from 5:00 AM until about 9:00 PM, with frequency every 15-20 minutes during peak hours and 20-30 minutes during off-peak times.

For travelers with mobility challenges, note that Hanoi's buses may not be fully accessible, and the 500-meter walk involves navigating sometimes uneven sidewalks and crossing busy streets. In such cases, a taxi or ride-hailing service might be more appropriate despite the higher cost.

Nearby attractions to visit from Bach Ma Temple

While Bach Ma Temple provides a spiritual sanctuary in Hanoi's bustling Old Quarter, the surrounding area offers numerous fascinating attractions worth exploring. Located in a prime position, the temple serves as an excellent starting point for discovering Hanoi's rich cultural tapestry. Here's a comprehensive guide to the most notable nearby sites that complement your visit to Bach Ma Temple.

Hanoi Old Quarter night market

Just a short walk from Bach Ma Temple, the Hanoi Old Quarter Night Market brings the area to life every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening from 6:00 PM until midnight. Stretching along Hang Dao Street, the market turns the Old Quarter into a lively, colorful hub of lights, music, and crowds. It’s a great spot to continue your evening after a daytime visit to the temple.

The market offers something for everyone, handmade crafts, traditional souvenirs, affordable fashion items, and delicious Vietnamese street food. Cultural performances, such as live music or traditional dance, often pop up along the route, adding to the festive mood. To enjoy the market fully, arrive early to avoid peak crowds and bring small bills for easier purchases. Bargaining is expected and part of the fun.

Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake, located just a 7-minute walk from Bach Ma Temple, is the heart of Hanoi both geographically and spiritually. Known as the "Lake of the Restored Sword", it holds deep historical and mythical significance. The serene lake offers a peaceful break from the hustle of the Old Quarter, with a 1.5-kilometer perimeter that's ideal for a stroll. Key attractions around the lake include Ngoc Son Temple, on a small island connected by the iconic red The Huc Bridge. Turtle Tower, standing in the lake’s center and symbolizing the golden turtle of legend, and the Le Thai To statue, honoring the founder of the Later Le Dynasty.

Early mornings are peaceful, with locals practising tai chi and meditation, while evenings bring a magical atmosphere with illuminated pathways and lively street performances. On weekends, the surrounding streets become pedestrian zones, offering a lively mix of food stalls, games, and cultural activities. After your visit to Bach Ma Temple, Hoan Kiem Lake provides a perfect spot to enjoy Hanoi’s unique blend of tradition and modern life.

Hoan Kiem Lake offers a tranquil escape steeped in legend, with scenic views, historic temples, and vibrant local life

Heritage House

The Heritage House at 87 Ma May Street offers a rare look into the lifestyle of wealthy 19th-century merchants in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. This beautifully restored tube house, built around 1890, features a narrow street-facing facade that extends deep into the property, a hallmark of traditional urban design. Inside, you’ll find three courtyards dividing business, living, and family spaces, along with antique furniture, ancestral altars, and original wooden architecture.

You can explore cultural artefacts such as musical instruments and household tools that bring daily life from the past to life. The house is open daily from 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with extended hours from 7:30 PM to 10:00 PM on weekends. Entry costs just 20,000 VND (around $0.86).

A visit here complements your experience at Bach Ma Temple by providing insight into the secular life of the same era. Photography is allowed in most areas, and a small gift shop offers traditional crafts and informative materials on Hanoi’s architecture.

Dong Xuan Market

About 800 meters north of Bach Ma Temple, Dong Xuan Market is Hanoi’s largest indoor market and a lively hub since 1889. Set in a four-story Soviet-style building, it’s packed with vendors selling everything from fresh produce to electronics, offering a vivid slice of daily Vietnamese life.

Each floor has a focus: fresh food and flowers on the ground level, packaged goods and spices on the first, clothing on the second, and budget-friendly local dishes on the third. Open daily from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, the market is busiest in the morning for food and in the afternoon for general shopping.

Dong Xuan Market is Hanoi’s largest indoor market, offering a vibrant, multi-level glimpse into everyday local commerce

As you walk from the temple to the market, the shift from spiritual calm to commercial buzz reflects Hanoi’s vibrant duality. Be ready to bargain, carry small change, and enjoy browsing the nearby specialty streets like Hang Ma and Hang Chieu for a truly local shopping experience.

Important tips when visiting Bach Ma Temple

Visiting Bach Ma Temple is a rewarding cultural experience, but it’s also a sacred space that calls for mindfulness. Here’s a quick guide to help you show respect and make the most of your visit.

• Dress modestly: Cover your shoulders and knees. Lightweight long pants and tops with sleeves work best. Bring a scarf if you're wearing a sleeveless shirt.
• Remove your shoes: Look for shoe racks before entering the main sanctuary. This is a sign of respect and standard temple etiquette.
• Keep your voice down: Speak softly and avoid loud conversations. This helps maintain the peaceful atmosphere and shows respect for worshippers.
• Avoid flash photography: Photos are generally allowed, but don’t use flash. Ask permission if you want to photograph people or temple caretakers.
• Go during prayer times: Early morning (6-7 AM) or evening (6-7 PM) is when locals gather for chanting and incense rituals, ideal for cultural immersion.
• Hire a guide (optional): A local guide (150,000-250,000 VND) can enrich your visit with historical context and symbolism. Tours usually last under an hour.
• Bring small change: Donation boxes are placed near altars. Offering 20,000-50,000 VND is customary and appreciated.
• Avoid weekends if possible: Weekdays, especially early mornings, offer a quieter, more authentic experience than crowded weekends.

By following these guidelines, you'll not only show respect for this important cultural site but also gain a deeper appreciation of its significance in Vietnamese religious traditions. Bach Ma Temple welcomes visitors of all backgrounds who approach the space with appropriate reverence and curiosity.

Follow these simple tips on attire and timing to enjoy a respectful and enriching cultural visit

Discovering Bach Ma Temple offers more than just a visit to an ancient site, it's a dive into the rich tapestry of history and culture that defines this captivating destination. As travelers wander through its hallowed halls, they find themselves not just observing relics of the past but connecting with centuries-old stories and traditions. This experience elevates one's travel journey, providing depth and insight that extend beyond mere tourism. By immersing yourself in such authentic encounters, you enrich your understanding of the world.

If you've uncovered new perspectives or simply felt the calm serenity wash over you, your time at Bach Ma Temple is undoubtedly well-spent. Keep exploring Vietnam with GTrip's insights as your companion on this journey, there are always more corners of history waiting to be unveiled in your future adventures.