Thien Mu Pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda is a Buddhist pagoda on Ha Khe Hill on the north bank of the Perfume River in Huong Long Ward, Hue City, Hue Municipality, Vietnam. Founded in 1601 by Lord Nguyen Hoang, it is among the oldest and most iconic religious sites in Hue. The complex features the seven-storey Phuoc Duyen Tower, historic Dai Hong Chung bell, landscaped gardens and river views, and remains an active place of worship and symbol of the former imperial capital.

Visitors can expect a hillside temple complex overlooking the Perfume River, centered on the seven-storey octagonal Phuoc Duyen Tower. The site includes prayer halls with Buddha statues, the historic Dai Hong Chung bronze bell, landscaped gardens with bonsai and pine trees, courtyards, and the preserved Austin car associated with Thich Quang Duc. Areas are connected by staircases and paved paths, with river views and a tranquil monastic atmosphere. The pagoda remains active with resident monks.

Founded in 1601 by Lord Nguyen Hoang, the first Nguyen Lord in Dang Trong, after a legend of a celestial lady foretelling a pagoda on Ha Khe Hill. Expanded and restored under Nguyen Lords and Nguyen Dynasty emperors. The seven-storey Phuoc Duyen Tower was erected in 1844 by Emperor Thieu Tri, and the Dai Hong Chung bell was cast in 1710 under Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu. The pagoda is closely associated with the history of Hue as the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty (1802-1945).

One of the most sacred and iconic Buddhist pagodas in central Vietnam and a symbol of Hue. It remains an active monastery of the Mahayana Buddhist tradition, a center for Buddhist practice and festivals, and an important cultural landmark within the Complex of Hue Monuments. The site reflects traditional Vietnamese pagoda architecture, garden design and religious art.