Chùa Cây Thị: A Haven of Serenity on Ngự Mountain, Ha Nam
Overview and Unique Location
Chùa Cây Thị (Fig Tree Pagoda), also known as Tịnh Viện Di Đà (Di Da Temple/Monastery), offers travelers a tranquil spiritual retreat away from the urban bustle. Nestled halfway up Ngự Mountain in Trà Châu Núi, Thanh Liêm District, the pagoda occupies a commanding position that affords beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and rice fields.
Favorable Feng Shui: Local beliefs often describe the location as having auspicious feng shui (phong thủy), with surrounding mountain ranges forming the protective shape of the “Left Green Dragon and Right White Tiger” (Tả Thanh Long, Hữu Bạch Hổ). Consequently, the remote, peaceful setting attracts a large number of pilgrims seeking quiet contemplation and peace.
The Ancient Fig Tree: The pagoda derives its popular name from the massive, hundreds-of-years-old fig tree (cây thị) that stands proudly near the main sanctuary. This ancient tree symbolizes enduring strength and tranquility, embodying the spirit of the pagoda itself.
History and Architectural Style
Chùa Cây Thị boasts both historical roots and a strikingly modern, harmonious design following a recent restoration.
Historical Roots: The original pagoda structure dates back hundreds of years, with records indicating a major restoration in 1940. However, colonial-era conflicts largely destroyed the temple in 1954.
Modern Restoration: Beginning in 2019, the site underwent extensive renovation and reconstruction. Significantly, the new complex beautifully blends traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architectural elements with the serene, minimalist aesthetic found in Japanese temples. Features include a stark white pebbled courtyard, well-manicured gardens with pine and bonsai trees, and refined construction techniques.
Key Structures: The compound includes the Main Sanctuary (Chánh điện) which houses a large bronze Buddha statue, the Ancestor’s House (Nhà Thờ Tổ), and areas dedicated to teaching and meditation, such as a lecture hall and inner courtyard built in a Japanese style.
Visitor Information and Cultural Significance
Chùa Cây Thị has rapidly become a major destination for spiritual tourism, especially for younger generations and families seeking beautiful photo opportunities and mental solace.
Activities: Visitors actively come here to offer incense, pray for peace and good fortune, and simply enjoy the fresh air and serene natural landscape. In addition, many visitors, particularly youth, enjoy taking photos in traditional Vietnamese clothing (Áo Dài) against the backdrop of the unique architecture.
Proximity to Other Sites: The pagoda sits conveniently close to other key Ha Nam spiritual sites, including Địa Tạng Phi Lai Tự (Di Tang Phi Lai Pagoda) and Chùa Phật Quang (Phat Quang Pagoda). Therefore, many travelers successfully include Chùa Cây Thị as part of a single-day spiritual itinerary.
Practical Details for Your Visit
Address: Thôn, Trà Châu Núi, Thanh Liêm, Hà Nam 700000, Vietnam.
Operating Hours: The pagoda generally opens daily from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM, including weekends and holidays.
Entrance Fee: Chùa Cây Thị does not charge an entrance fee for sightseeing or worship, encouraging all visitors to experience its tranquility.
Important Note: Because this is a spiritual site, visitors must dress politely and modestly (covering knees and shoulders) and maintain silence and respect for the grounds and fellow worshipers. You should place any monetary donations in the designated merit boxes.
