Master Pagoda (Thay Pagoda), one of the famous attractions in the vicinity of Hanoi, is also known as Thien Phuc Pagoda and is dedicated to the worship Sakyamuni Buddha and 18 Arhats. The pagoda is on the side of a mountain, surrounded by trees.
Built in the 11th century, during the reign of King Ly Nhan Tong, Thay Pagoda has three sections: the outer, for offerings and ceremonies, the middle, for worship of Buddha, and the inner, for worship of monk Tu Dao Hanh.
From the bridge in front of the pagoda, visitors can trek up the mountain, where there are old pagodas, temples and mysterious caves.
Halfway up the mountain, visitors meet Cao Pagoda, where Tu Dao Hanh started his religious life. Behind the pagoda is Cac Co Cave, which is considered the place where more than 2,000 soldiers died in wartime.
A day at the pagoda will bring visitors relaxing moments, nostalgia through the antique and peace and still of the sanctuary, defeating all tiredness and tetchiness of daily life.
Tay Phuong Pagoda is located on Tay Phuong Mountain in Yen Village, Hanoi. The pagoda was built in the 3rd century and was undergone several restorations. In 1794 under the Tay Son regime, it was completely renewed, hence its present design. It comprises three successive constructions: the Hall of Prostration, the Main Shrine, and the Sanctuary, all with double tiered roofs. It seems that this architectural arrangement is inspired by Buddhist and Confucians thought: the three constructions symbolize the three forces governing the world. The pagoda has approximately 80 statues of all sizes representing former monks who stayed at the pagoda. It also possesses a bell molded in 1796 and many valuable altars of emperors of the Canh Thinh dynasty. Tay Phuong Pagoda is not only an historical site with valuable architecture, but also a scenic spot in Hanoi.
