One Pillar Pagoda, Hanoi

Perched on a single stone pillar erected in the middle of a lotus pond, One Pillar Pagoda rises like a flower from the water. Climb a dozen stairs to access this iconic 11th-century wooden temple and see its gilt statue of Guanyin, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, surrounded by colorful offerings. Many people come to pray to this goddess for fertility. Originally built in the midst of a swamp, this tiny temple with flying eaves now overlooks a small lotus pool inside a tranquil park. A popular spot included in most tours of Hanoi, the temple holds many prayer ceremonies throughout the day. Before you head to Hanoi, plan trip itinerary details with our user-friendly Hanoi day trip website, to make sure you see all that Hanoi has to offer, including One Pillar Pagoda.