Quan Thanh Temple

Quan Thanh Temple is a historic Taoist temple located at 190 Quan Thanh Street near West Lake in Ba Dinh District, Hanoi. Founded during the reign of Ly Thai To (1010-1028), it is one of the Four Guardian Temples of ancient Thang Long. Dedicated to Huyen Thien Tran Vu, it is renowned for its massive 17th-century black bronze statue and well-preserved traditional Vietnamese architecture.

Visitors can expect a tranquil temple courtyard with a triple-arched gate, ancient banyan trees, incense-filled worship halls, and traditional wood and stone architecture. The main hall houses a 3.96-meter tall black bronze statue of Huyen Thien Tran Vu cast in 1677, along with intricate wood carvings, bronze bells, and votive offerings. The setting is urban yet peaceful, located at the intersection of Quan Thanh and Thanh Nien streets overlooking West Lake.

Founded during the Ly Dynasty under Emperor Ly Thai To between 1010 and 1028 to guard the north of the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. It is one of the Four Guardian Temples of Thang Long. The current bronze statue of Huyen Thien Tran Vu was cast in 1677 during the Le Dynasty and is considered a masterpiece of Vietnamese bronze casting. The temple has been restored multiple times while preserving its historical layout.

A major Taoist temple dedicated to Huyen Thien Tran Vu, deity of the North and guardian against evil, revered as protector of Hanoi. It is one of the most sacred temples in Hanoi and an important site for local worship, festivals, and traditional rituals, especially during Lunar New Year. It exemplifies Vietnamese religious architecture and bronze artistry.