Elephant Temple: A 'secret' check-in spot in the heart of Hanoi.
Amidst the hustle and bustle of city life, the Voi Phuc Temple has unexpectedly become an ideal destination for young people in Hanoi thanks to its moss-covered, tranquil atmosphere and rare historical depth.
Located on a hill called Long Thu (Ba Dinh ward), the Voi Phuc Temple has long been known as a famous landmark of Hanoi. In early August 2024, the Hanoi People's Committee officially signed a decision recognizing it as a Special National Monument tourist site, affirming the cultural and historical value of this structure.
A thousand-year-old historical site guarding the Thang Long Imperial Citadel.
The Elephant Kneeling Temple is one of the four important "Four Guardian Temples" guarding the directions of the ancient Thang Long capital. The temple is dedicated to Prince Linh Lang – the son of King Ly Thai Tong, who played a significant role in the resistance against the Song invaders in the 11th century. The temple's name originates from the image of the two stone elephants kneeling before the gate, symbolizing the majesty and strength of Linh Lang Dai Vuong.
An ideal destination for vintage-style photoshoots.
Despite being an ancient spiritual site, the Voi Phuc Temple has recently become a discreet "check-in spot" that young people are spreading the word about. Unlike the hustle and bustle of central locations, it retains a peaceful atmosphere with its ancient brickwork, old trees casting shadows, and a space imbued with the passage of time. This is the perfect backdrop for photos in traditional Vietnamese ao dai dresses, creating a gentle and nostalgic feel.
Within the temple grounds, the Crescent Well, with its clear blue water and the reflection of ancient trees, has become the most popular photo spot. Many young people even hire professional photography teams to capture these serene moments alongside the traditional architecture of Thang Long.
Experience tranquility in the heart of the city.
Hai Anh (from Cau Giay ward), a young tourist, shared: "The space here is very quiet and less well-known than other tourist spots, which makes me feel comfortable taking pictures and sightseeing." As the setting sun casts its light on the temple, the atmosphere becomes even more tranquil, offering a rare sense of peace amidst the hustle and bustle of Hanoi.
The Elephant Temple (also known as the Elephant Temple of Thu Le) is not only a valuable historical relic but also a unique cultural destination. With its blend of ancient architecture, lush greenery, and spiritual significance, it promises to attract many visitors seeking to explore the historical depth of the capital city in the future.
