Huyền Không Sơn Thượng Pagoda: A Retreat of Poetry and Peace
Huyền Không Sơn Thượng Pagoda, often called Huyền Không 2, offers a true escape from urban noise. This tranquil Theravada Buddhist site sits approximately 11 kilometers west of Hue’s city center, hidden high up on a forested mountain slope in Chầm Village. Visitors consistently praise its incredibly fresh air and magnificent natural setting, making it an ideal destination for reflection and rejuvenation.
I. History and Architectural Philosophy
Monk Giới Đức founded the pagoda in 1989, establishing it on a wild hill that monks and lay Buddhists transformed into the “fairyland” it is today. The pagoda embraces the principles of Theravada Buddhism, which prioritize simplicity, meditation, and harmony with nature. Consequently, its architecture deliberately avoids the lavishness seen in many other temples. Instead, it features structures predominantly made of wood, with open, minimalist designs that seamlessly blend with the surrounding forest and mountains.
II. Highlights: Nature, Art, and Tranquility
The pagoda’s focus rests heavily on its external grounds, which provide various beautiful meditation spaces.
Thanh Tâm Viên (The Pure Heart Garden): This exquisite area includes a lotus pond and a small wooden bridge, creating a picturesque, contemplative setting. Monks meticulously cultivate rare orchids and frangipani throughout the complex.
Calligraphy Pavilion: Huyền Không Sơn Thượng is particularly famous for its deep connection to poetry and calligraphy. The monks frequently display artistic calligraphy pieces on wooden signs and large stones across the grounds, sharing profound spiritual messages and poems with visitors.
Nghinh Lương Đình: This simple pavilion functions as a guesthouse where travelers rest and enjoy a cup of tea, sometimes even engaging in discussions about the Dharma with the resident monks.
III. Essential Visitor Information
Because the pagoda emphasizes quiet contemplation, you must maintain a respectful and discreet demeanor throughout your visit.
Location/Address: Chầm Village, Hương Hồ Ward, Hương Trà Town, Thừa Thiên Huế Province.
Opening Hours: The pagoda generally welcomes visitors daily from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. We suggest you visit in the early morning to capture the ethereal, misty scenery.
Entrance Fee: Visiting Huyền Không Sơn Thượng is completely free of charge. However, a voluntary donation to support the temple’s upkeep is always appreciated.
Getting There: Accessing the pagoda requires driving along winding, sloping roads. The best way to travel is by motorbike or private car. First, you drive along Kim Long Street, passing Thiên Mụ Pagoda, and then follow the signs towards Chầm Village (Thôn Chầm). The final three kilometers involve a scenic, winding route.
Dress Code: Visitors should wear polite, discreet clothing, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered. Also, please avoid creating loud noises to honor the peaceful atmosphere. Finally, visitors must not offer money directly to the monks; instead, they should use the donation boxes provided.
