Belonging to the quiet northern countryside, Nom Pagoda in Hung Yen appears with a fresh natural landscape and unique architectural imprints. Experiencing many ups and downs of the history of this temple, this temple still retains the ancient beauty that makes many tourists want to stop for a long time to admire the scenery and immerse themselves in the natural scenery.
Introduction to Nom Pagoda in Hung Yen
Nom pagoda in Hung Yen is located in the complex of Nom village relics in Dai Dong commune, Van Lam, Hung Yen. According to legend, because the temple was built in the middle of a great pine forest, this place is also known as Linh Thong ancient temple.
Coming to Nom Pagoda in Hung Yen , you will surely discover many interesting things about an ancient temple architecture of Vietnam. Besides, visitors can combine visiting many famous landmarks in such as Nom bridge, Tam Giang communal house, Nom market,…
How to move to Nom pagoda?
Because it is located near Hanoi, moving to Nom Pagoda in Hung Yen is quite convenient, only about 30km away, you can visit and worship at the temple. Starting from the center of Hanoi, you go to Highway 5, when you arrive in Hung Yen, ask people for directions to the temple. You can also take a bus to get here. From Giap Bat bus station, please take bus 209 or 208. The temple is located deep in Nom village , so the entrance is quite small and zigzag, you should pay attention when moving.
History of Nom Pagoda in Hung Yen
Although it is one, but when Nom pagoda was built, there is still no exact answer. Currently, there are two steles placed inside the temple grounds recording the history of restoration: in 1680, the Later Le Dynasty, after ascending the throne, the king rebuilt the pagoda. Next, in 1962, 1697, and 1698, the temple’s corridors, forecourts and harems were remodeled. In 1700 (the year Chinh Hoa 21) repaired the pillars in the temple, widened the courtyard and created more statues. In 1796, the corridor continued to widen and the steeple was built.
Experiencing many historical events and many times of repair, but due to the impact of natural disasters, flash floods, Nom pagoda has some parts seriously degraded. The original architectural forms have not been fully preserved. So it wasn’t until 1998 that the local government shook hands with Venerable Thich Dong Hue to contribute and call for the restoration of the pagoda. Today, Nom pagoda has been built quite new, but the ancient architectural features still exist in the large campus.
In February, 1994, Nom Pagoda in Hung Yen was certified by the Ministry of Culture and Information as a “Cultural Historical Relic”.
Outstanding architecture of Nom Pagoda in Hung Yen
Buddha statue system
Nom Pagoda in Hung Yen not only attracts many tourists from all over the world because of its harmonious natural scenery, but also houses many precious relics. The most outstanding thing to mention is the 122 terracotta statues that clearly describe the development of Buddha through the stages in his life. There are small pictures, some up to 3m high. All are placed in the sacred space of the Triple Gem.
There are also statues placed in the two corridors. These are the Diamond Bat Bo statue, Arhat statue, Tuyet Son statue,… The statues have diverse and rich shapes, postures, colors and sizes that look quite eye-catching. Some are seated, some are standing, some are contemplative, some are joyful, leisurely,…
The talent of the artists in the past when breathing soul into each statue is not only reflected in the facial expressions but also in the sophistication and elegance of the costumes. Regardless of the position, when looking at the statues, visitors will still feel the purity of the soul, the nobility of wisdom and the torment with the pain of humanity.
Ancient architecture at Nom Pagoda in Hung Yen
This temple in Hung Yen impresses visitors by its ancient and mossy beauty present in each architectural item. The decorative motifs on the work are very delicate and elaborate, showing the enthusiasm of the artists.
The temple is hidden under large old trees with a long history. According to local people, the architecture of Nom pagoda is designed in the style of Dinh, which means steadfastness and solidity. Stepping through the three gates, you will see the bell tower and the empty floor located on opposite sides. At the bell tower, every day, there will be a very clear ringing of bells, highlighting the peace and sacredness of the ancient temple.
Before reaching Nom pagoda, visitors will have to move on a 9-span stone bridge dating back 200 years in the shadow of Nguyet Duc River. Cross the bridge, go a little further and you will see the temple’s three-door gate. This is also one of the largest three attractions in Southeast Asia. The gate is made of wood, the roof is red tiled with fish scales, creating the ancient and traditional features of the ancient temples in the Northern Delta. On both sides of the gate are old trees that cool the whole space.
Through the three-way gate, you will enter the temple. The first to appear are two towers on both sides and there is a clear blue lake that makes the temple more poetic. Moving to the back of the lake is the main hall hidden inside the old trees. This is also the place to worship hundreds of years old statues such as Amitabha Buddha, Tam Thanh, …
From the main hall to the outside, you will see a rather large lake, in the middle there is an architecture resembling a lotus flower, which is the Quan Am floor. To get to the floor, visitors will have to cross a small bridge. In addition, at Nom pagoda , there is a laterite grave garden. Especially, this is a rare place in the temple that still retains its primitive form.
Scenery of Nom Pagoda in Hung Yen , reciting Buddha’s name, praying for peace so that everyone can feel the purity and lightness in their souls when they step foot outside the gate of the temple.
Source: Collected internet.