Language
Currency
Hon Chen Shrine is a spiritual site characteristic of the people of Hue. This place blends unique architecture with various cultural identities, sparking the curiosity of travelers. Join NVK Travel in the following article to learn about this interesting attraction.
Hon Chen Shrine, also known by another name as Hue Nam Shrine, is currently located on Ngoc Tran Mountain, Long Ho Ward, Phu Xuan District, Hue City. From the center of Hue, visitors will travel about 10km to get here.
The shrine is a place for spiritual activities and worship of the Holy Mother Thien Y A Na. She is a deity in the ancient Champa belief, which later gradually became part of Vietnamese culture. The sacred Holy Mother has been passed down through generations, along with the beautiful scenery that attracts thousands of visitors each year.
Hon Chen Shrine is a harmonious combination of culture and art.
>>> See more: Top 6 Tourist Attractions in Phu Tho You Shouldn't Miss!
Right after this, NVK Travel will take you on a comprehensive exploration of this famous spiritual tourism site.
The shrine was officially started during the reign of the first king of the Nguyen dynasty - King Gia Long. The main purpose of its construction was to worship Taoism, and it was later officially recorded as "Ngoc Tran Son Tu". By the time King Dong Khanh ruled, it was renamed Hue Nam, meaning "bringing blessings to the people of Nam." Throughout its formation and development,Hon Chen Shrine is associated with many fascinating legends.
Hon Chen Shrine is a harmonious combination of culture and art.
>>> See more: Phu Tho 1 Day Tour: Journey to Explore the Land of the Ancestors
Hue Nam Shrine is a perfect blend of royal beauty and rustic folk beliefs. Unlike many other constructions from the Nguyen dynasty, this place is designed in a simple, close style while still maintaining its inherent majesty. The shrine complex consists of 10 different large and small structures.
Simple yet unique architecture
The entire complex is located on Ngoc Tran Mountain, facing the Perfume River, creating an indescribable sacred feeling. Surrounding this area are tall green trees that help make the air fresher and more serene. Minh Dai Shrine, located right in the center, is the most prominent structure here.
In addition to the interior architecture, the exterior space ofHon Chen Shrine also captivates visitors. Nestled among lush green trees by the poetic Perfume River, this place gives visitors a feeling of peace and nostalgia. When the sunset descends, the sun gradually sets behind the mountain, creating the most beautiful scenery of the day.
The space is surrounded by lush green mountains
Hiding on the mountain, quietly listening to the rustling wind and the fragrant nature is an experience that no urban area can offer. Moreover, visitors can feel their souls at peace while enjoying the dim light in the shrine, the sound of chanting, and the ethereal incense.
Visitors can experience many exciting activities here.
Hue Nam Shrine is not just an ordinary tourist attraction. Here, visitors will have the opportunity to engage in many unique activities that cannot be found elsewhere.
In a peaceful and quiet space, cruising on a dragon boat along the poetic Perfume River is a dream for many. In the late afternoon, as the sunset descends, sitting on the boat listening to the rustling wind and enjoying the picturesque scenery is truly a wonderful experience. Additionally, visitors can also listen to Hue singing on the river - exploring the unique cultural traits of the local people.
Cruising by dragon boat will be a very interesting experience.
Besides dragon boats, visitors can choose to rent a private boat for a more intimate space. You will hear explanations about the history, architecture, and significance ofHon Chen Shrine when renting the service. Depending on their needs and finances, each visitor will have the most suitable choice.
The festival here is incredibly lively.
The festival is a characteristic and indispensable cultural aspect of the people of Hue. In the third and seventh lunar months each year,Hon Chen Shrine becomes more vibrant and lively than ever to prepare for the festival season.
The opening ceremony features a solemn and grand procession of the Holy Mother Thien Y A Na. Dozens of dragon boats parade in a long line on the Perfume River, creating an unprecedented majestic scene. Locals and visitors will pray for their wishes and perform spirit mediumship.
Spirit mediumship is not just a regular ritual; it is also a unique cultural feature where music harmonizes with traditional costumes. Additionally, visitors will have the opportunity to experience other exciting activities such as releasing lanterns, watching art performances, and participating in the night market.
Visitors can join the pilgrimage to pray for blessings.
This is a ritual serving the spiritual needs of the local people. Visitors will offer the Holy Mother prepared offerings with the hope of praying for blessings, peace, children, etc. Many people believe that as long as they are sincere and have enough devotion, they will receive the Holy Mother's protection.
Pilgrims at Hon Chen Temple you can choose to organize individually or in groups. Many people also ask the priest to come to pray for peace with the hope of smooth sailing. In addition, you can ask for blessings from the Holy Mother by taking small items from the temple. It is said that praying for peace by asking for blessings is very sacred, which is why countless tourists come here hoping to bring back a piece of good luck.
A close-up of the dragon boat procession opening the festival
For a spiritual tourist destination like this, being associated with many thrilling legends is inevitable. Continue following the next article to learn about these interesting stories.
According to legend, the goddess Ponagar is the daughter of the Jade Emperor. She was sent down to the mortal world to teach humanity how to grow crops, especially rare plants. She is known as the Mother Goddess of the Ponagar land, and is also the Holy Mother whom Hon Chen Temple worships.
It is said that when the king and his concubines were sailing on the Perfume River, a royal concubine accidentally dropped a small golden tube right in the deepest part of the water. She then prayed for the Holy Mother's help.
At first, the king did not believe it, but surprisingly, the item floated to the surface. Witnessing the miraculous event right before his eyes, King Thieu Tri immediately ordered repairs to be made to Hon Chen Temple. However, he passed away before his wish could be fulfilled.
King Minh Mang also visited here
In the past, there were rumors that Hon Chen Temple had another name, “Hoan Chen,” because of the famous legend of King Minh Mang. It is said that during one of his passes here, the king dropped a bowl into the Perfume River. Just when it seemed impossible to retrieve, suddenly a turtle surfaced in the lake, holding the jade bowl and returning it to the king.
Hon Chen Temple is not only a tourist destination but also a place that preserves a wealth of cultural heritage. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the poetic scenery while having a solid spiritual support. What are you waiting for? Contact NVK Travel right away for assistance with tours to Hue as soon as possible!
Fill out the form and we will contact you
