Bach Ma Temple Hanoi: Hoan Kiem Ward Guide & Eco Tours

A Sacred Icon of Hanoi’s Ancient Heritage

Bach Ma Temple, nestled at 76 Hàng Buồm Street in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, is the city’s oldest temple, founded in the 9th century, drawing over 50,000 visitors annually. Located just 500 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake, this free-to-enter Buddhist sanctuary honors the White Horse deity and Long Đỗ, the ancient guardian god of Thăng Long, offering a serene escape amid the bustling Old Quarter. Its historical significance and vibrant spiritual life make it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts exploring Hanoi’s 1,000-year-old legacy.

Built during the Anterior Lý Dynasty and relocated in the 18th century to guard Thăng Long’s eastern flank, Bach Ma Temple features Nguyen-era architecture with golden dragons and a crab-shell vaulted roof. Eco-friendly practices, such as biodegradable incense and solar-powered lighting, align with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative, set in a tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F). Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours guide you through this sacred haven, ensuring a green, immersive experience. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration, simplifying navigation to Bach Ma Temple using ward-based maps.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly tours in Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic cultural experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric cyclos or VinBus, led by English-speaking guides who share temple history, spiritual insights, and green practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local communities, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Bach Ma Temple responsibly

Founded in the 9th century to worship Long Đỗ, the dragon god credited with thwarting Tang Dynasty sorcery, Bach Ma Temple was renamed in 1010 by King Lý Thái Tổ to honor a mythical white horse that guided the construction of Thăng Long’s citadel. Relocated in 1781 to its current site at 76 Hàng Buồm, it guards the eastern gate of the ancient capital alongside Quan Công, Kim Liên, and Voi Phục temples. The temple’s Nguyen Dynasty architecture, restored in 1829 and 1902, features a two-tiered gate, intricate wooden carvings, and a red-lacquered palanquin, with shrines to the White Horse, Confucius, and seasonal offerings. Annual festivals on the 12th–13th of the 2nd lunar month draw worshippers burning eco-friendly incense for prosperity and peace. Its serene courtyard and vibrant rituals, 500 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake, make it a cultural gem in Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

These eco-friendly activities, mostly free, offer spiritual and cultural immersion at Bach Ma Temple:

1. Offer Biodegradable Incense

Light eco-friendly incense to honor Long Đỗ and the White Horse deity, best at 8:00 AM, for $0.20 (5,000 VND), embracing Vietnamese Buddhist traditions.

• Cost: $0.20 (5,000 VND); entry free.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–11:00 AM, 2:00 PM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable incense minimizes environmental impact; maintain silence.

• Tip: Pray in the main hall; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Admire Nguyen Dynasty Architecture

Explore the temple’s intricate wooden doors, dragon carvings, and crab-shell roof, best at 9:00 AM, free, reflecting Vietnam’s cultural artistry.

• Cost: Free; photography permit $1 (25,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–11:00 AM, 2:00 PM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Digital photography reduces waste; avoid touching relics.

• Tip: Use a 50mm lens for interior shots; respect worshippers.

3. Meditate in the Courtyard

Find tranquility in the temple’s garden courtyard, best at 7:30 AM, free (donations $0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND appreciated), for spiritual reflection.

• Cost: Free; donations optional.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–11:00 AM, 2:00 PM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Quiet meditation respects local practices; no plastic offerings.

• Tip: Sit respectfully; avoid loud conversations.

4. Visit the White Horse Shrine

Pay respects at the White Horse statue, best at 10:00 AM, free, symbolizing King Lý Thái Tổ’s divine guidance.

• Cost: Free.

• Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–11:00 AM, 2:00 PM–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Avoid physical contact with statues; digital guides minimize paper.

• Tip: Learn the legend via translation apps; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Temple Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Experience Lunar Festival Rituals

Join the 12th–13th of the 2nd lunar month festival (February/March), best at 8:00 AM, free, with lion dances and communal prayers.

• Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$1 appreciated.

• Hours: Festival days, 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Support eco-conscious vendors; avoid littering.

• Tip: Arrive early for dance performances; check lunar calendar for dates.

Visit from November to April for cool, dry weather (15–28°C or 59–82.4°F), ideal for walking Hoan Kiem Ward’s Old Quarter. The rainy season (May–October) enhances the temple’s serene ambiance but requires rain gear. Early mornings (8:00–10:00 AM) offer tranquility with fewer visitors (50–100 daily) than afternoons (200–500), especially on the 1st and 15th lunar days or the 2nd lunar month festival, when crowds peak at 1,000–2,000. Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are quieter than weekends, particularly during Tet (January/February), when locals pray for blessings. Avoid lunch hours (11:00 AM–2:00 PM) when the temple may close briefly.

Bach Ma Temple, at 76 Hàng Buồm Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi, is 500 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake, reachable in 5–60 minutes:

• By Walking: 5–10 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake via Hàng Đào to Hàng Buồm. Free, eco-friendly.

• By Cyclo: From Old Quarter, 5–10 minutes, $2–$4/hour (50,000–100,000 VND) for 1–2 people, offering scenic rides.

• By Motorbike Taxi (Xe Ôm): 1–5 km rides (e.g., Ba Đình to Hoan Kiem), 5–10 minutes, $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND). Book via Grab/Xanh SM apps; helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).

• By Electric Bus (VinBus): Routes 18, 32, 34 to Trần Nhật Duật stop (500m walk), 5–10 minutes, $0.30–$0.40 (7,000–10,000 VND). Departs every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM. Use Tìm Buýt app.

• By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): To Hàng Buồm, 5–10 minutes, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$8. Use Xanh SM app.

• By Bicycle: Rent from Old Quarter shops ($2–$5/day or 50,000–125,000 VND), 5–10 minutes. Eco-friendly; park at Hàng Buồm ($0.20–$1.20 or 5,000–30,000 VND).

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) round-trip for up to 4 people, ideal for groups.

• By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 28 km. Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min), then walk; direct taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND). Flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), Bangkok ($200–$600). Navigation Tip: Save “76 Hàng Buồm, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps (Maps.me); use Dong Xuan Market or Hoan Kiem Lake as landmarks. Pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight) restricts vehicles.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walking, cycling, or VinBus reduce emissions; carpool for private cars.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Hàng Buồm; secure valuables. Confirm fares via apps to avoid scams.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable experience:

• Clothing: Light layers, closed-toe shoes; modest attire (cover shoulders/knees, no cut-out clothing) for temple respect; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat (remove in worship areas).

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), hand sanitizer ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM/Tìm Buýt apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).

• Photography Gear: Camera or smartphone for courtyard shots; extra batteries.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for offerings ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes.

• Extras: Notebook for cultural notes; cash for donations and food.
  Tip: Carry small VND notes for incense ($0.20), donations ($0.50–$1), or street food ($1–$2); secure valuables in crowded areas.

Costs for Visiting Bach Ma Temple

Entry and Activity Fees

• Temple Entry: Free.

• Incense Offerings: $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Donations for Meditation: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND, optional).

• Photography Permit (Professional): $1 (25,000 VND).

• Street Food (Nearby Hàng Buồm, e.g., Bánh Mì): $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).

• Drinks (Coffee, Water): $0.30–$1.50 (7,000–37,500 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., Handicrafts): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward)

• Walking: Free.

• Cyclo: $2–$4/hour (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Xe Ôm: $1.60–$4 (40,000–100,000 VND) for 1–5 km.

• VinBus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Taxi: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Private Car: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Airport Bus No. 86 + Walk: $3.70–$6.40 (92,500–160,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.20–$1.20 (5,000–30,000 VND).

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $5–$15 (walking, incense, street food).

• Mid-range: $20–$35 (cyclo, donations, guided tour).

• Luxury: $50–$80 (taxi, guided tour, souvenirs).
  Tip: Budget for activities ($0.20–$1), transport ($0.60–$8), and food ($1–$2); carry VND for temple and vendors (no cards accepted).

• Timing: Visit at 8:00–10:00 AM for serenity; November–April for dry weather. Weekdays for fewer crowds (50–100 vs. 200–500 on weekends). Avoid 1st/15th lunar days or festival (2nd lunar month) for quieter visits; join festivals for vibrant rituals.

• Booking: No entry tickets needed; reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided visits. Check festival dates with locals for special events.

• Sustainability: Use biodegradable incense; bring reusable bottles to reduce plastic. Support Old Quarter vendors for snacks ($1–$2) or crafts ($1–$5).

• Navigation: Save “76 Hàng Buồm, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use Hoan Kiem Lake or Dong Xuan Market as landmarks. Avoid vehicles during Hoan Kiem’s pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight).

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Hàng Buồm; secure valuables. Avoid touching altars; confirm fares via apps to avoid scams.

• Weather: Dry season for comfort; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5) and non-slip shoes. Check AccuWeather.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees); remove shoes at entry. Maintain silence in worship areas; say “cảm ơn” to monks. Avoid public displays of affection.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); carry hand sanitizer for hygiene.

Our sustainable tours showcase Bach Ma Temple and Hanoi’s cultural treasures:

• Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Electric cyclo to Bach Ma Temple, Hoan Kiem Lake, and Old Quarter at 8:00 AM, with street food lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.

• Hanoi Spiritual Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Bach Ma Temple, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Tạ Hiện’s bia hơi, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Ninh Bình Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Bach Ma Temple, Ninh Bình’s Trang An, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links

Bach Ma Temple, Hanoi’s oldest sanctuary at 76 Hàng Buồm in Hoan Kiem Ward, free to enter, captivates over 50,000 visitors yearly with its 9th-century history and Nguyen-era architecture. From offering eco-friendly incense to admiring the White Horse shrine, sustainable practices like digital guides preserve its spiritual allure, 500 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you through this cultural gem, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel journey filled with history and spiritual immersion. Whether seeking peace or exploring Hanoi’s heritage, Bach Ma Temple promises an unforgettable experience. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your spiritual adventure today!
Ready to visit Bach Ma Temple in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural journey!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.