Red wooden Khue Van Pavilion at the Temple of Literature, with trees and a reflection in the water.

Temple of Literature

Courtyards, gardens and inscriptions honoring scholars link the Confucian temple to Hanoi's old imperial academy, the Quoc Tu Giam.

  • Religion and art
  • Suggested time:1 to 1.5 hrs
  • Area:Van Mieu, west of the center

About Temple of Literature

Among gates and courtyards, you start noticing inscriptions and wooden details. Founded in 1070 and dedicated to Confucius, the temple gained the Quoc Tu Giam academy in 1076. The stelae of the doctors recall the importance of exams in public life.

Follow the gardens, the Khue Van Pavilion and the worship areas. The inscriptions call for observation, not touch. Set aside time to read instead of just collecting photos of the gateways.

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