Tay Ho Palace: A Famous Spiritual Destination in Hanoi

One of Hanoi’s most well-known spiritual hotspots, Tay Ho Palace draws lots of visitors and locals alike throughout the year. It is impressive to tourists not only for its rich historical significance but also for its distinctive architectural ensemble, which captures the spirit of Vietnamese art. Let’s use MOTOGO Tours to experience Tay Ho Palace’s hidden beauty by reading the following article.

Introduction to the Historical Origins of Tay Ho Palace in Hanoi

According to legend, Tay Ho Palace is dedicated to Princess Lieu Hanh, who was the daughter of the Jade Emperor. Having made a mistake, the princess was exiled to the mortal realm and chose the Tay Ho region as her residence. The tale of Princess Lieu Hanh is closely linked with the legends of Saint Giong, Son Tinh, and Thuy Tinh, reflecting the belief in the Four Palaces—an important aspect of the Vietnamese Mother Goddess worship.

Tay Ho Palace has undergone numerous modifications and restorations since its estimated 17th-century construction. Phu Tay Ho has persevered magnificently through many historical occurrences, developing into a well-known travel destination that upholds distinctive spiritual and cultural qualities.

Where is Tay Ho Palace Located?

Tay Ho Palace is located in Nghi Tam village, Tay Ho district, on a little peninsula thatjuts into West Lake. It is about 4 km west of Hanoi’s city center. The shrine offers tourists a sense of calm and solitude in the middle of the busy metropolis. The exact location of the shrine may be found using Google Maps, or you can use bus number 31, 33, or 55 to get there.

Exploring the Architecture Inside Tay Ho Palace

In addition to being a well-known spiritual location, Tay Ho Palace draws tourists with its distinctive architectural splendor, which is firmly ingrained in traditional Vietnamese culture. Let’s examine each element of Tay Ho Place’s architectural complex in more detail:

Overview of the Grounds

Tay Ho Palace occupies an area of roughly 3,000 square meters and is situated on a sizable peninsula that extends into West Lake. The grounds of the shrine are encircled by old brick walls, which contribute to the peaceful mood. Upon entering the majestic Tam Quan gate, guests are welcomed by an architectural ensemble that is tastefully designed and exudes holiness and solemnity.

Tam Quan and Dragon Courtyard

The three roads that lead to Tam Quan, the main gate to Tay Ho Palace, represent the three domains of existence: heaven, earth, and humanity. The Tam Quan gate is built with a two-tiered, curved roof that is beautifully carved with images of legendary animals, including dragons and phoenixes. The words “Tay Ho Hien Tich” (The Legacy of Tay Ho) are written in ancient Chinese characters on the top of the roof.

Crossing the Tam Quan leads to the Dragon Courtyard—an expansive, airy space filled with greenery. The Dragon Courtyard is where important rituals, such as festivals, palanquin processions, and spirit mediums, take place.

>>> Let’s see more: Hoan Kiem Lake: Explore Hanoi’s Historic and Cultural Heart

Worship Hall System

The Upper Hall, Middle Hall, and Lower Hall are the three main worship rooms that make up Tay Ho Palace’s worship hall system. Every hall has unique spiritual and architectural significance.

• Upper Hall: Mother Thien, Mother Lieu Hanh, and Mother Thoai are the Three Holy Mothers, to whom this hall is dedicated. Built with a three-tiered curved roof decorated with elaborate carvings of the four sacred creatures and four priceless things, the Upper Hall has majestic and monumental architecture.
• Middle Hall: Hoi Truong, Quan Lon, and other gods are honored in this hall. The Middle Hall’s architecture is somber and warm, with a two-tiered curved roof that is adorned with carvings of phoenix and dragon designs.
• Lower Hall: This hall is dedicated to the Great Old Man and various horse deities. The Lower Hall has simpler and more rustic architecture compared to the other two halls, but it still exudes a majestic and sacred vibe.

Lau Co and Lau Cau

Located on either side of the Tay Ho Palace grounds are Lau Co and Lau Cau. Lau Co is dedicated to Princess Quynh Hoa, the daughter of the Dragon King, while Lau Cau is dedicated to a young boy with special powers. Both Lau Co and Lau Cau are constructed with a two-tiered curved roof, adorned with exquisite floral carvings.

Garden and Ancient Fig Tree

Tay Ho Palace has a sizable garden with lots of trees, which contributes to the tranquil atmosphere. In particular, the old fig tree guards the shrine grounds like a guardian deity with its wide canopy. The ancient fig tree has great historical and cultural significance and is thought to be hundreds of years old.

>>> Article for you: Discover the Enchantment of Ngoc Son Temple in Hanoi

The Beauty of Customs and Rituals at Tay Ho Palace

Who is worshiped at Tay Ho Palace?

Tay Ho Palace in Hanoi features a main hall dedicated to the goddess Lieu Hanh. In addition, the shrine also has altars for other deities such as the Jade Emperor, Nam Tao – Nam Dau, and Bac Dau. For a long time, the shrine has been famous for its sacredness in granting luck and wealth. Therefore, many people visiting Hanoi often stop by to pray for good fortune, health, and peace for their families, friends, and loved ones, as well as to seek prosperity.

It is a popular destination for spring visits and wealth prayers at the beginning of the year. If you plan to visit and admire the shrine, don’t forget to learn about all-inclusive tours in Hanoi and bring some offerings such as incense, aloeswood, and fresh fruits for your rituals.

Festivals at Phu Tay Ho

Tay Ho Place hosts many important festivals throughout the year, attracting numerous visitors and locals. The most prominent ones include:

• Festival on the 3rd day of the 3rd lunar month: This is the largest festival of the year at Phu Tay Ho, drawing thousands of people to offer incense and pray for blessings. The festival lasts for three days and features many solemn and vibrant rituals such as processions, traditional singing, and shadow puppetry.
• Festival on the 13th day of the 8th lunar month: This festival commemorates the birthday of the goddess Lieu Hanh. It takes place over one day and includes many solemn rituals such as offering incense, making offerings, and traditional singing.

>>> Let’s see more: Quan Thanh Temple: Discover the Spiritual Heart of Hanoi

Ritual Offerings

When visiting Tay Ho Place, tourists can participate in the following worship rituals:

• Incense Offering Ceremony: This is the most basic ritual, expressing the sincere devotion of followers to the deities. Visitors light incense and pray for good things for themselves and their families.
• Ceremony to Request Wealth: This ceremony is usually held following the incense offering. In the shrine grounds, visitors request a red paper with prewritten prayers on it, which they then tie to a branch.
• The Spirit Medium: Ceremony is a feature of Mother Worship, portraying the medium as being possessed by gods in order to communicate messages and bestow benefits on followers. But the spirit medium ritual is typically reserved for special events or individuals who register for it..

Nearby Attractions Not to Be Missed

In addition to being a well-known spiritual site, Tay Ho Place is a great place from which to explore the numerous charming neighboring areas. Here are some recommendations:

Tran Quoc Pagoda

One of the top destinations in Hanoi is Tran Quoc Pagoda, which is only a short distance from Tay Ho Palace. Despite ups and downs throughout history, this ancient pagoda—which dates back to the sixth century—has managed to retain its serene and majestic grandeur. It is compared to a “precious gem” adorning the picturesque environment of West Lake, where it sits on a small island.

The Tran Quoc Pagoda’s distinctive architecture, which has seen wear and tear over time, is admired by visitors. The Bodhi Garden, the Pen Tower, the Phat (Buddha) hall, the Tam Quan gate, and other elements make up the pagoda. Every component has historical and cultural significance of its own. Visitors can roam around the pagoda grounds and experience.

>>> You may also concern: The Bach Ma Temple: Discover Hanoi’s Spiritual Gem

West Lake

West Lake, which spans more than 500 hectares, is the biggest freshwater lake in Hanoi’s inner city. It is sometimes called the “green lung” of the capital since it offers locals clean air and a lovely environment. West Lake is a great place for visitors to unwind, go for a stroll, work out, or enjoy leisure activities like boating and sailing.

Nghi Tam Village

About 3 km from Tay Ho Place, Nghi Tam Village is an ancient village situated along the banks of West Lake. This region is well-known for its rambling little alleys, old homes, and profusion of pomelo orchards. In addition to taking in the peaceful surroundings and sampling the village’s specialty cuisine, visitors to Nghi Tam Village can also experience the straightforward way of life of the locals.

A hidden gem site in Hanoi, Tay Ho Palace artfully combines spirituality, culture, and environment. In addition to providing a tranquil getaway from the bustle of the city, this lively neighborhood enables you to engage with Vietnam’s rich cultural legacy. So gather your belongings and embark on a journey to experience Phu Tay Ho’s enchantment!