Visit Cau Dong Pagoda in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, a Tran Dynasty gem! Explore history, activities, pricing, and Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours. Book your cultural journey now!
Capture the sacred serenity of Hanoi’s cultural gemCau Dong Pagoda, nestled on Hàng Đường Street in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, is a hidden cultural treasure, drawing thousands of visitors annually as the only site in Hanoi dedicated to Grand Chancellor Trần Thủ Độ, founder of the Tran Dynasty (1225–1400). Located in the vibrant Old Quarter, just 900 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake, this ancient pagoda, free to enter, offers a serene escape with its 60 intricately carved 18th-century Buddha statues and altars honoring Trần Thủ Độ and his wife, Trần Thị Dung. It’s a must-visit for those seeking Hanoi’s spiritual and historical depth.
Dating back to the Lý Dynasty (1010–1225), Cau Dong Pagoda, also known as Đông Môn (Eastern Gate) Pagoda, reflects Hanoi’s 1,000-year-old Thang Long heritage. Eco-friendly practices, such as biodegradable incense and digital guides, 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 enhance your visit, blending cultural immersion with green travel. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
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 Cau Dong Pagoda 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 experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who share pagoda history, cultural 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 Cau Dong Pagoda responsibly!
Photograph the lively allure of Hanoi’s heritage (Source: Internet)Built during the Lý Dynasty (1010–1225), Cau Dong Pagoda was named for its proximity to the ancient Đông Bridge over the Tô Lịch River and the Eastern Gate (Cửa Đông) of Thang Long Citadel. Restored multiple times, including in 1624 as noted on a preserved stele, it houses nearly 60 18th-century Buddha statues, including rare carvings of the Past, Present, and Future Buddhas, adorned with ornate necklaces and delicate facial features typical of 17th–18th-century Vietnamese art. The pagoda’s great shrine features a Tuyết Sơn statue, showcasing exquisite craftsmanship, and altars to Trần Thủ Độ and Trần Thị Dung, celebrated for their roles in the Tran Dynasty’s victory against the Yuan-Mongol invasion in 1258. Trần Thủ Độ’s bold leadership and Trần Thị Dung’s logistical support, earning her the title “Linh Từ Quốc Mẫu” (Kind-hearted Mother of the Country), are commemorated here, making the pagoda a unique spiritual site in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, steps from Dong Xuan Market.
These eco-friendly activities, mostly free, offer cultural and spiritual engagement:
Light biodegradable incense to honor Trần Thủ Độ and Trần Thị Dung, best at 8:00 AM, for $0.20 (5,000 VND), embracing Vietnamese spiritual traditions.
Cost: $0.20 (5,000 VND); entry free.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Biodegradable incense minimizes environmental impact; maintain silence.
Tip: Learn about Tran Dynasty history from local monks; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Marvel at nearly 60 ancient statues, best at 9:00 AM, free, including the rare Past, Present, and Future Buddhas with intricate carvings.
Cost: Free; photography permit $1 (25,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Digital photography reduces waste; avoid touching statues.
Tip: Use a 50mm lens for close-ups; respect worshippers’ space.
Read historic steles, including one from 1624, best at 10:00 AM, free, detailing the pagoda’s land expansion and restoration.
Cost: Free.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Digital guides minimize paper; stay on paths to preserve grounds.
Tip: Bring a translation app for inscriptions; located near the main courtyard.
Participate in community meditation, best at 7:00 AM or 5:00 PM, free (donations $0.50–$1 or 12,500–25,000 VND appreciated), for tranquility.
Cost: Free; donations optional.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM or 5:00 PM (check with monks).
Eco-Friendly Note: Quiet participation respects local practices; no plastic offerings.
Tip: Wear modest attire; sit cross-legged respectfully.
Walk Hàng Đường’s vibrant street after visiting, best at 11:00 AM, free, to enjoy street food ($0.50–$2 or 12,500–50,000 VND) and nearby Dong Xuan Market.
Cost: Free; food $0.50–$2.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–10:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support local vendors with biodegradable packaging; use reusable bags.
Tip: Try bún chả ($1–$2); included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Food Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Learn Hanoi’s historical legacy with expert insights (Source: Internet)Visit from November to April for cool, dry weather (15–28°C or 59–82.4°F), ideal for exploring Hoan Kiem Ward’s Old Quarter and enjoying clear views. The rainy season (May–October) adds lush ambiance but requires umbrellas. Early mornings (7:00–9:00 AM) offer tranquility with fewer visitors (100–200 daily) compared to afternoons (500–1,000), especially during Tet (January/February) when locals pray for prosperity, creating a vibrant atmosphere. Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are quieter than weekends, particularly during the Old Quarter’s pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight), which boosts nearby foot traffic.
Cau Dong Pagoda, at 38 Hàng Đường Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, Hanoi, is 900 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake, reachable in 5–15 minutes:
By Walking: 5–10 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake via Hàng Gai or Đinh Tiên Hoàng to Hàng Đường. Free, eco-friendly.
By Cyclo: From Old Quarter, 5–10 minutes, $4–$10/hour (100,000–250,000 VND) for 1–2 people, offering a cultural ride.
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 08, 09, 36 to Hoan Kiem Lake (Lý Thái Tổ stop), 5–10 minutes, $0.30–$0.40 (7,000–10,000 VND). Departs every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM. Use BusMap app.
By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): To Hàng Đường, 5–10 minutes, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$8. Use Xanh SM app.
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND) round-trip for up to 4 people, ideal for groups.
By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 25 km. Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min), then walk or taxi ($2–$4); 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 “38 Hàng Đường, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps (Maps.me); locate via Dong Xuan Market or Hoan Kiem Lake. Pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight) restricts vehicles.
Eco-Friendly Note: Walking, cyclos, or VinBus reduce emissions; carpooling lowers fuel use.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets near Hàng Đường; secure valuables. Confirm app-based fares.
Experience Hanoi Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable experience:
Clothing: Light layers, closed-toe shoes; modest attire (cover shoulders/knees, no hats in worship areas) 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 sanctuary).
Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), hand sanitizer ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM/BusMap apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10).
Photography Gear: Camera or smartphone for statue shots; extra batteries.
Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for souvenirs; biodegradable wipes.
Extras: Notebook for cultural notes; cash for offerings and food.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for incense ($0.20), donations ($0.50–$1), or street food ($0.50–$2); secure valuables in crowds.
Entry and Activity Fees
Pagoda 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 (Hàng Đường, e.g., Bún Chả): $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND).
Drinks (Coffee, Water): $0.30–$1 (7,000–25,000 VND).
Souvenirs (e.g., Silk on Hàng Gai): $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: $4–$10/hour (100,000–250,000 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 Electric Taxi: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).
Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $3.70–$6.40 (92,500–160,000 VND).
Parking (Bikes/Cars, if needed): $0.20–$1.20 (5,000–30,000 VND).
SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $3–$10 (walking, incense, street food).
Mid-range: $15–$30 (cyclo, donations, guided tour).
Luxury: $50–$80 (electric taxi, guided tour, souvenirs).
Tip: Budget for activities ($0.20–$1), transport ($0.80–$8), and food ($2–$5); carry cash for pagoda and vendors (no cards accepted).
Location map for Cau Dong Pagoda (Source: Internet)Timing: Visit at 7:00–9:00 AM for serenity; November–April for dry weather. Weekdays for fewer crowds (100–200 vs. 500–1,000 on weekends). Tet (January/February) is vibrant but busy.
Booking: No entry tickets needed; reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead for guided visits. Check meditation schedules with monks on-site.
Sustainability: Use biodegradable incense; bring reusable bottles to reduce plastic. Support local vendors on Hàng Đường for food ($0.50–$2) or souvenirs ($1–$5).
Navigation: Save “38 Hàng Đường, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use Dong Xuan Market or Hoan Kiem Lake as landmarks. Avoid vehicles during pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–midnight).
Safety: Watch for pickpockets near Hàng Đường; secure valuables. Avoid touching statues or altars; confirm fares for taxis/xe ôm.
Weather: Dry season for comfortable visits; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5). 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 Cau Dong Pagoda and Hanoi’s cultural treasures:
Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Electric cyclo to Cau Dong Pagoda, Ngoc Son Temple, and Old Quarter at 8:00 AM, with street food lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Hanoi Nightlife Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Pagoda visit, Tạ Hiện’s bia hơi, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Bình Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Cau Dong Pagoda, 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!
Cau Dong Pagoda in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, a cultural jewel just 900 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake, offers free entry to its sacred Tran Dynasty altars and 18th-century Buddha statues, enchanting thousands of visitors yearly. From offering incense to Trần Thủ Độ to strolling vibrant Hàng Đường Street, eco-friendly practices like biodegradable offerings preserve its serene atmosphere. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to this spiritual haven, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience with low-impact tours and visits to nearby Dong Xuan Market and Ngoc Son Temple ($1.20 entry, 30,000 VND). Whether seeking tranquility or history, Cau Dong Pagoda promises an unforgettable Hanoi experience. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your eco-friendly cultural adventure today!
Ready to visit Cau Dong Pagoda 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, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Sources:
Cau Dong Pagoda Information: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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