Đền Đông Hương Guide: Eco-Friendly Tours & Cultural Activities in Hanoi

A Sacred Eco-Tourism Gem in the Old Quarter

Nestled at 82 Hàng Trống Street in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, Đền Đông Hương (Dong Huong Temple) is a hidden spiritual and eco-tourism treasure in the heart of the Old Quarter, just 0.5 km from Hoan Kiem Lake. Dedicated to a legendary 15th-century Ca Trù singer—a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage since 2009—this temple honors her heroic act of luring Ming invaders to their demise, aiding Vietnam’s independence under the Lê Dynasty. The temple’s modest courtyard and intricate altars reflect Hanoi’s rich cultural tapestry, blending folklore with patriotism. Surrounded by the bustling 36 streets, it’s a serene retreat for spiritual reflection and cultural immersion, ideal for eco-conscious travelers. Aligned with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative, Đền Đông Hương promotes sustainable tourism through low-impact visits and local engagement. Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours ensure a responsible, enriching 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 Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This streamlines access through sustainable infrastructure, including pedestrian-friendly paths and eco-transport options, ensuring seamless travel to Đền Đông Hương.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-tours to Đền Đông Hương with a focus on environmental care and cultural preservation. Our tours use eco-friendly transport like cyclos and electric carts, led by local guides who share the temple’s historical and spiritual significance, ensuring a safe, immersive journey. Supporting Hoan Kiem Ward’s 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 Đền Đông Hương responsibly! TripAdvisor Reviews

Đền Đông Hương, located at 82 Hàng Trống Street, is a short walk from Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward center. Set in a tropical monsoon climate with a dry season (November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F) and a rainy season (May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), this compact temple, built in the 15th century, honors a Ca Trù singer’s bravery during the Lê Dynasty’s resistance against Ming invaders. Its modest courtyard, adorned with incense altars and historical plaques, offers a tranquil escape amidst the Old Quarter’s vibrant streets. Recent preservation efforts, including 2023 restoration of its wooden carvings, ensure its cultural integrity, while eco-friendly initiatives like waste reduction enhance its sustainability.

Đền Đông Hương is easily accessible in Hanoi’s Old Quarter via sustainable transport options, with most routes taking 10–30 minutes from central Hanoi:

By Air

• Details: Noi Bai International Airport (HAN), 25 km from Hanoi’s Old Quarter, serves domestic and international flights. Take a taxi, Grab, or shuttle to Hoan Kiem Ward.

• Round-Trip Costs:

  • Ho Chi Minh City: $80–$150 (2,000,000–3,750,000 VND).

  • Da Nang: $60–$120 (1,500,000–3,000,000 VND).

  • International (e.g., Bangkok): $200–$600.

• Airport Transport: Bus No. 86 to Old Quarter ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 25–30 min frequency); taxi/Grab ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND); private shuttle via KLOOK ($10 or 250,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Use Bus No. 86 to reduce emissions; share taxis for efficiency.

• Note: Ideal for international visitors; combine with Old Quarter exploration.

By Bus (Eco-Friendly)

• Details: From Hanoi’s My Dinh or Giap Bat Bus Stations, take Routes 01, 09, or 14 to Hoan Kiem Ward (15–30 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND). Walk 5–10 minutes to 82 Hàng Trống Street. Buses run every 10–20 minutes from 5:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

• Total Cost: $0.30–$0.50 (7,000–12,000 VND) one-way.

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Public buses minimize carbon footprint; use Hanoi Urban Transport’s website for schedules.

• Note: Confirm “Hàng Trống Street” with drivers; ideal for budget travelers.

By Cyclo or Electric Cart (Eco-Friendly)

• Details: From Hoan Kiem Lake, hire a cyclo or electric cart for a 5–10-minute ride to the temple ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Book via local vendors or hotels.

• Total Cost: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) one-way.

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Zero-emission transport supports local vendors; ideal for short distances.

• Note: Perfect for immersive Old Quarter experiences; negotiate fares upfront.

By Bicycle or Walking (Eco-Friendly)

• Details: Rent a bicycle in the Old Quarter ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND) or walk 5–10 minutes from Hoan Kiem Lake to 82 Hàng Trống Street. Bike rentals are available at hotels or shops.

• Total Cost: Free (walking); $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND) for bikes.

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Walking or cycling reduces emissions; explore 36 streets en route.

• Note: Ideal for fit travelers; use offline maps for navigation.

By Taxi or Grab

• Details: From Hoan Kiem Ward center, book a taxi or Grab for a 5–10-minute ride to the temple.

• Cost: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND) round-trip.

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Share with others; use hybrid vehicles if available.

• Note: Confirm “Đền Đông Hương, 82 Hàng Trống” to avoid confusion.

By Private Car (Legend Travel Group)

• Details: Book a private car ($30–$50 or 750,000–1,250,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people) for flexible, eco-friendly travel with Old Quarter stopovers.

• Eco-Friendly Tip: Fuel-efficient vehicles minimize impact; combine with cultural sites.

• Note: Ideal for groups; book 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons.

Tip: Walking or cyclos are most sustainable; download offline maps (Maps.me) with “Đền Đông Hương, 82 Hàng Trống” as a landmark. Legend Travel Group’s tours streamline navigation.

• Dry Season (November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F): Ideal for walking the Old Quarter and temple visits, with mild weather and clear skies. Tet (January–February) features vibrant prayer rituals but draws crowds.

• Rainy Season (May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F): Lush greenery and fewer visitors, with 15–25% tour discounts, but bring waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for showers.

• Tet (January–February): Peak spiritual season with incense offerings and ceremonies, perfect for cultural immersion, but book early.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable, respectful visit:

• Clothing: Lightweight, modest outfits (long sleeves/pants) for temple respect; comfortable shoes for Old Quarter walking. Waterproof jackets for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.

• Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger.

• Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (50,000–200,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, straw to minimize waste.

• Extras: Small offerings (incense, flowers, $1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND) for prayers; notebook for reflections.

Tip: Carry small VND notes for offerings; use a reusable bag to reduce plastic waste in the Old Quarter.

Đền Đông Hương, built in the 15th century, honors a Ca Trù singer’s heroic act during the Lê Dynasty, luring Ming invaders to their demise to secure Vietnam’s independence. Recognized as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2009, Ca Trù’s poetic melodies echo the temple’s legacy of patriotism and artistry. Its modest courtyard, with incense altars and historical plaques, offers a serene contrast to the Old Quarter’s bustle, reflecting Hanoi’s cultural pride. Recent 2023 restorations ensure its wooden carvings and spiritual ambiance remain intact, making it a sustainable cultural landmark.

1. Spiritual Prayer Rituals: Offer incense or flowers to pray for peace, health, or prosperity, a 20–30-minute ritual central to Vietnamese spirituality, especially during Tet. Cost: Offerings $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

2. Ca Trù Cultural Immersion: Learn about Ca Trù’s UNESCO heritage through guided storytelling or rare performances, a 30-minute cultural experience. Cost: Included in guided tours ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

3. Old Quarter Walking Tour: Explore the 36 streets’ vibrant markets and cafes around the temple, a 1–2-hour low-impact activity. Cost: Free; guided tour $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

4. Photography: Capture the temple’s courtyard and Old Quarter alleys, a sustainable activity for social media. Cost: Free; professional permit $10/day (250,000 VND, groups <10).

5. Visit Nearby Cultural Sites: Explore Ngoc Son Temple or Hoan Kiem Lake (0.5 km), a 30-minute walk or cyclo ride. Cost: Ngoc Son entry $1.20 (30,000 VND); cyclo $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND).

Entrance and Activity Fees

• Đền Đông Hương Entry: Free; donations ($1–$3 or 25,000–75,000 VND) welcomed.

• Offerings: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Guided Tour: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND).

• Photography Permit (Professional): $10/day (250,000 VND, groups <10).

• Ngoc Son Temple (Nearby): $1.20 (30,000 VND).

Transportation (Round-Trip, Old Quarter)

• Bus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).

• Cyclo/Electric Cart: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).

• Bicycle: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Walking: Free.

• Taxi/Grab: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).

• Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).

• Airport Bus No. 86: $2.80 (70,000 VND); taxi $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).

Food

• Old Quarter Street Food: $2–$5 (50,000–125,000 VND) per dish.

• Cafes/Restaurants: $5–$15 (125,000–375,000 VND) per meal.

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $10–$20 (bus, free entry, street food).

• Mid-range: $20–$40 (cyclo, guided tour, cafe dining).

• Luxury: $50–$80 (private car, premium dining).

Tip: Carry VND for small purchases; book tours early for Tet or dry season.

• Plan Your Visit: Spend 1–2 hours at the temple for prayers and reflection; combine with Old Quarter exploration for a half-day trip. Morning visits (6:00–10:00 AM) avoid crowds.

• Book in Advance: Reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons (November–April, Tet) to secure spots and customize itineraries.

• Sustainability: Walk or use cyclos ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) to reduce emissions; buy local street food ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) to support vendors. Use reusable items to minimize waste.

• Navigation: Download offline maps (Maps.me); mark “Đền Đông Hương, 82 Hàng Trống” as a landmark. Guides ensure seamless access.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets in the Old Quarter; keep valuables secure. Avoid extending phones on busy streets.

• Weather Considerations: Dry season (November–April) is best for walking; rainy season requires waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather for updates.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly (long sleeves/pants); say “cảm ơn” (thank you); tip guides $0.50–$2 (12,500–50,000 VND). Respect prayer rituals and maintain silence.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent; ensure fitness for Old Quarter walking.

Our sustainable tours showcase Đền Đông Hương’s spiritual and cultural richness:

• Đền Đông Hương Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to temple, prayer rituals, Old Quarter walking tour, street food tasting. Includes guide, cyclo.

• Hanoi Cultural Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Đền Đông Hương, Ngoc Son Temple, Temple of Literature, homestay ($30–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Ba Vi Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Đền Đông Hương, Thuong Temple, Hoan Kiem Lake, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.

Prices include English-speaking guides, eco-transfers, and fees. Enjoy 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links around this page! TripAdvisor Reviews

Đền Đông Hương, at 82 Hàng Trống Street in Hanoi’s Old Quarter, is a sacred eco-tourism gem celebrating a 15th-century Ca Trù singer’s heroism. From offering prayers to exploring the vibrant 36 streets, every activity supports the local community and sustainable practices. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you through this spiritual haven, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience filled with cultural depth and eco-conscious exploration. Whether seeking tranquility or immersing in Hanoi’s heritage, Đền Đông Hương promises lasting memories. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your Hanoi adventure today!
Ready to embrace the spiritual heart of Đền Đông Hương? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural getaway!

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.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group.