Devoted to the Chinese ancient teacher and philosopher Confucius, Temple of Literature & National University houses the first university of Vietnam founded in the 11th century. Constructed under Ly Thanh Tong dynasty in the typical Vietnamese traditional architectural style--from wood and tiles--the temple features five historic courtyards. See the statues representing the ancient teacher and his honored disciples, the 82 stelas commemorating notable scholars, and a small collection of student and mandarin traditional uniforms. Walk the lanes planted with century-old trees and look for a tortoise head--you can see students rubbing it for good luck before taking exams. Plan to visit Temple of Literature & National University and other customer-reviewed, writer-recommended Hanoi attractions using our Hanoi road trip planner.
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Tours to Temple of Literature & National University
Temple of Literature & National University reviews
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Interesting part of Hanoi history. We had a tour guide, so we were told the full story of how it was built and by who in four stages. Along with the education history of Vietnam.
Interesting part of Hanoi history. We had a tour guide, so we were told the full story of how it was built and by who in four stages. Along with the education history of Vietnam. more »
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We visited the Temple on our first day in Hanoi. Tickets are less than 5USD. As soon as you enter the walls on the Temple, the noise of the city immediately dies down. There is a man in one of the...
We visited the Temple on our first day in Hanoi. Tickets are less than 5USD. As soon as you enter the walls on the Temple, the noise of the city immediately dies down. There is a man in one of the... more »
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A very interesting and well preserved historical site. It contains many original stone carvings and inscriptions that survived many centuries and are fascinating to view close up. Walking around the gardens is very nice, the pools have a lot of fish that love to follow you around. Many of the trees look like they have grown undisturbed for many hundreds of years also. A lot of original historic architecture is present and great photo opportunities for visitors. There is enough space to move around and generally not crowded.
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This is the oldest historical architecture I have visited in Asia. Expect temples, wide courtyard and scholarly pursuits in one place..Since 1076? W-O-W. The first national university of Vietnam. The thought that hundreds of scholars have walked in these yards and halls is unimaginable but true. I have seen the centuries-old stone slabs where students would write upon while i guess, squatting and attentively listening to the teacher in front. The place and background info give u a surreal feeling of the past. You won’t miss the old but sturdy stone gates in the entrance. They are beautifully done. Bring some incense when you visit.
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