Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy: Discovering the Birthplace of Vietnamese Wisdom

Temple of Literature - Hanoi
Temple of Literature – Hanoi is a cultural and historical tourist destination that attracts many tourists in the Capital (Photo: Collected)

The Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy (Văn Miếu – Quốc Tử Giám) is not only one of Hanoi’s most iconic historical sites, but also a powerful symbol of Vietnam’s long-standing respect for education, knowledge, and scholars. As the first national university of Vietnam, this complex preserves invaluable cultural and historical legacies of a capital city with over a thousand years of civilization.

Located in the heart of Hanoi, the Temple of Literature offers visitors a deep journey into the origins of Vietnamese intellectual tradition, Confucian education, and architectural heritage.

The History of the Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy

When was the Temple of Literature built?

The Temple of Literature was established in 1070 during the reign of King Lý Thánh Tông. Initially, it served as a sacred site dedicated to Confucius, Duke of Zhou, and the Four Disciples (Tứ Phối)—key figures in Confucian philosophy.

In 1076, under King Lý Nhân Tông, the Imperial Academy (Quốc Tử Giám) was built next to the temple. This institution functioned as a school exclusively for princes and children of royal and noble families, marking the birth of Vietnam’s formal higher education system.

Expanding education beyond the elite

During the reign of King Trần Thái Tông, the institution was renamed the National Academy (Quốc Học Viện) and began admitting exceptionally talented students from common families—an important milestone reflecting the merit-based spirit of Vietnamese education.

The story of the Temple of Literature - Quoc Tu Giam
The story of the Temple of Literature – Quoc Tu Giam past and present makes many tourists feel excited (Photo: Collected)

Under King Lê Thánh Tông, stone steles were erected to honor doctoral laureates who passed the highest imperial examinations. These steles later became one of the most valuable historical records of Vietnam’s scholarly achievements.

Stone steles
Stone steles

Changes through later dynasties and wars

During the Nguyễn Dynasty, another Imperial Academy was established in Huế City. The Hanoi complex was renovated and officially renamed Temple of Literature of Hanoi.

In 1947, during the resistance war against French colonial forces, parts of the complex were severely damaged by artillery fire, leaving only foundations, two columns, and four stone ink slabs from certain structures.

Despite historical upheavals, the Temple of Literature has endured as a testament to Vietnam’s intellectual resilience.

Unique Architecture of the Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy

Covering an area of approximately 54,331 square meters, the complex consists of multiple architectural elements, including:

  • Văn Miếu (Temple of Literature)
  • Hồ Văn (Literature Lake)
  • Quốc Tử Giám (Imperial Academy)
  • Khuê Văn Pavilion
  • Doctoral Stele Garden
  • Thái Học Courtyard
Diagram of the Temple of Literature (Photo: Collected)
Diagram of the Temple of Literature (Photo: Collected)

Surrounded by ancient brick walls weathered by time, the site reflects early Nguyễn Dynasty court architecture, with a symmetrical layout aligned along the traditional North–South axis.

The Five Main Courtyards

The complex is divided into five courtyards, separated by walls and gates:

  • First Courtyard: From the main gate (Văn Miếu Môn) to Đại Trung Gate, with two side gates—Đạt Tài Gate and Thành Đức Gate
  • Second Courtyard: From Đại Trung Gate to Khuê Văn Pavilion
  • Third Courtyard: Home to Thiên Quang Well (Well of Heavenly Light)
  • Fourth Courtyard: The ceremonial center, featuring Bái Đường (Ceremonial Hall) and Đại Thành Shrine
  • Fifth Courtyard: The Thái Học area, reconstructed in 1999

Highlights Inside the Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy

Văn Miếu Môn (Main Gate)

Văn Miếu Môn is a three-entrance ceremonial gate with two levels, exuding solemnity and dignity. The upper level bears the three Chinese characters “Văn Miếu Môn.” In front of the gate stand two stone steles and a four-pillar ceremonial structure.

Văn Miếu Môn (Main Gate)
Văn Miếu Môn (Main Gate)

Hồ Văn (Literature Lake) & Giám Garden

Located directly opposite the main gate, Hồ Văn, also known as Giám Lake or Minh Đường Lake, features a small island called Kim Châu Islet. At its center stands Phán Thủy Pavilion, once a venue for scholarly debates and literary discussions.

Hồ Văn (Literature Lake)
Hồ Văn (Literature Lake)

Giám Garden, on the western side, is a tranquil space featuring an octagonal pavilion, ornamental plants, ponds, and artistic landscapes—ideal for relaxation and cultural events.

Đại Trung Gate

The second main gate, Đại Trung Gate, consists of three sections built on a raised brick platform, topped with traditional curved roof tiles. The surrounding open space, lined with trees, paths, and ponds, creates a peaceful atmosphere rarely found in the bustling city center.

Đại Trung Gate
Đại Trung Gate

Khuê Văn Pavilion – The Symbol of Hanoi

Built in 1805 under the Nguyễn Dynasty by Governor Nguyễn Văn Thành, Khuê Văn Pavilion is one of Hanoi’s most recognizable symbols.

Khuê Văn Pavilion – The Symbol of Hanoi
Khuê Văn Pavilion – The Symbol of Hanoi

This two-story structure stands nearly nine meters tall, featuring:

  • Eight roofs (four upper, four lower)
  • Red-tiled, double-layered roofs
  • Gilded wooden upper floor
  • Four elaborately carved brick pillars below

The circular windows resemble the Khuê star, symbolizing brilliance, knowledge, and scholarly success.

Doctoral Steles Garden & Thiên Quang Well

The Doctoral Stele Garden houses 82 stone steles, each mounted on a stone turtle, recording the names and achievements of doctoral laureates across various dynasties.

Doctoral Steles Garden
Doctoral Steles Garden

On March 9, 2010, these steles were recognized by UNESCO as World Documentary Heritage.

Adjacent to the steles lies Thiên Quang Well, a square-shaped pond symbolizing the earth and believed to gather the essence of the universe, illuminating human knowledge.

Khải Thánh Temple

Located at the rear of the complex, Khải Thánh Temple is dedicated to the parents of Confucius—Shuliang He and Yan Zhengzai.

Khải Thánh Temple
Khải Thánh Temple

Historically, this area once served as a residential zone with 150 rooms for students. It was completely destroyed in 1946 during wartime and later reconstructed, preserving its sacred atmosphere to this day.

Thái Học House

Rebuilt in 2000, Thái Học House follows traditional architectural styles using baked tiles, wood, and bricks.

Thái Học House
Thái Học House
  • First Floor: Exhibits on the history of the Temple of Literature and Vietnam’s Confucian education; honors renowned educator Chu Văn An
  • Second Floor: Dedicated to Kings Lý Thánh Tông, Lý Nhân Tông, and Lê Thánh Tông, who made significant contributions to Vietnam’s educational development

Đại Thành Shrine

As the fourth main space, Đại Thành Shrine is the spiritual heart of the complex. It consists of nine compartments, enclosed on three sides, and serves as the place of worship for Confucius, the Ten Philosophers, and the Four Associates.

What Can You Experience at the Temple of Literature?

Exploring Ancient Architecture & Vietnam’s Educational Heritage

Walking through the Temple of Literature is like retracing the footsteps of scholars from centuries past. From the solemn main gate to the iconic Khuê Văn Pavilion, the doctoral steles, Thiên Quang Well, and Thái Học Courtyard, visitors gain a comprehensive understanding of Vietnam’s scholarly tradition and reverence for learning.

Traditional Cultural Experiences

Today, the Temple of Literature is a popular cultural destination, especially during Lunar New Year:

  • Calligraphy Requesting: Visitors seek calligraphy blessings symbolizing success, wisdom, and good fortune
  • Incense Offering: Students and candidates pray for academic success
  • Heritage Education Programs: Activities such as learning ancient Chinese characters or making traditional books
  • Cultural Events & Exhibitions: Regularly organized seminars, exhibitions, and traditional performances
Calligraphy Requesting
Calligraphy Requesting

Night Tour & 3D Mapping Show

The Temple of Literature Night Tour offers a deeply immersive experience through lighting, sound, and interactive activities such as folk games and storytelling by stone steles.

Temple of Literature - National Tu Giam night tour
Temple of Literature – National Tu Giam night tour

The highlight is the 3D Mapping Show “The Essence of Confucian Learning”, celebrating Vietnam’s respect for teachers, education, and talent.

Night Tour Details:

  • Opening hours: 6:30 PM – 9:30 PM
  • 3D Mapping shows: 7:45 PM & 8:45 PM
  • Ticket price:
    • Visitors from 1m–1.3m: 199,000 VND
    • Children under 1m: Free

Opening Hours & Ticket Prices (Daytime Visit)

  • Opening hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Admission Fees:

  • Adults: 70,000 VND
  • Vietnamese students (with ID): 35,000 VND
  • Seniors (Vietnamese citizens aged 60+): 35,000 VND
  • Children under 16: Free
  • Audio guide (foreign languages): 100,000 VND

Conclusion

The Temple of Literature – Imperial Academy is far more than a historical monument—it is the spiritual cradle of Vietnamese education and intellectual values. Through centuries of transformation, wars, and restoration, the site continues to honor knowledge, morality, and academic excellence. For international visitors seeking to understand Vietnam beyond its modern vibrancy, this timeless complex offers a profound glimpse into the country’s cultural soul and enduring respect for learning.

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