Chuong Pagoda (Kim Chung Tu)

Chuong Pagoda, also known as Kim Chung Tu, is a historic Buddhist pagoda located in Hien Nam Ward, Hung Yen City, Hung Yen Province, Vietnam. Situated within the ancient Pho Hien relic complex, it is renowned for its well-preserved Later Le dynasty architecture, ancient stone stele, bronze bell, and collection of Buddhist statues. The pagoda remains an active place of worship and a significant cultural landmark illustrating northern Vietnamese Buddhist heritage.

Visitors can expect a tranquil Buddhist temple complex with traditional northern Vietnamese architecture, including a three-entrance gate, main hall, ancestral house and bell tower. The grounds feature ancient stone steles, a large historic bronze bell, wooden statues and courtyards shaded by old trees. The interior displays Buddhist statues and altars. The setting is quiet and religious, suitable for sightseeing, photography and observing worship activities.

Chuong Pagoda was originally founded in the 15th century during the Later Le dynasty and underwent major restoration in the early 18th century. A stone stele from 1711 and a bronze bell cast in 1707 document its reconstruction. It is a key component of the Pho Hien historic trading port area, which flourished in the 16th-17th centuries, and is recognized as part of the Pho Hien National Special Relic Complex.

The pagoda is an important Buddhist religious site in northern Vietnam and an active place of worship for the local community. It exemplifies traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture and sculpture, preserves religious artifacts and festivals, and represents the cultural heritage of the ancient Pho Hien area.