Phu Tay Ho, often referred to as Tây Hồ Temple or Palace, is one of Hanoi’s most revered spiritual sites. Located beautifully on a small peninsula jutting into West Lake (Hồ Tây), it is central to the practice of Vietnamese Mother Goddess Worship (Đạo Mẫu). It offers visitors both spiritual insight and a peaceful retreat with scenic views.
I. History & Culture
Deity Worshiped: The Palace is primarily dedicated to Mother Liễu Hạnh (Liễu Hạnh Princess), one of the Four Immortals in Vietnamese traditional belief. She is an important figure in the Mother Goddess religion (Đạo Mẫu), revered as the Mother of the World and a guardian of the Vietnamese people.
History: The exact founding date is unclear, but the palace has been a crucial spiritual center for centuries. Its location on the scenic West Lake has contributed to its persistent popularity as a place of pilgrimage. It was officially recognized as a historical and cultural relic in .
Significance: Phu Tay Ho is famous for its vibrant atmosphere, especially during festivals, where pilgrims come to pray for blessings, wealth, and health through ritual ceremonies and offerings.
II. Key Attractions & Architecture
The Lakeside Location: The most distinguishing feature is its setting on the tranquil West Lake. The views of the lake, particularly at sunrise or sunset, provide a perfect backdrop for contemplation and photography.
The Worship Hall System: The complex is organized into multiple halls dedicated to different deities central to the Mother Goddess tradition:
Upper Hall: Dedicated to the Three Holy Mothers (Mother Thiên, Mother Liễu Hạnh, and Mother Thoại).
Middle Hall: Honors various high-ranking spiritual officials (Hội Đồng Quan Lớn).
Lower Hall: Dedicated to minor deities.
Architecture: The palace exhibits traditional Vietnamese temple architecture, featuring a two-story triple-entrance gate (Tam Quan) and meticulously carved wooden interiors, contributing to a serene and spiritual atmosphere.
Festivals: The most important festivals that draw large crowds of pilgrims are:
The day of the Lunar Month
The day of the Lunar Month (commemorating the birthday of Mother Liễu Hạnh).
III. Practical Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Address | No. 52 (or No. 71, Lane 50) Đặng Thai Mai Street, Quảng An Ward, Tây Hồ District, Hanoi. (Located on the Nghi Tàm Peninsula of West Lake). |
| Entrance Fee | Free (Miễn Phí). There is generally no admission fee for tourists. |
| Operating Hours | 5:00 AM – 7:00 PM daily. (As a place of worship, hours may be extended during major festival days). |
| Proximity | Approximately 4 km from Hanoi's city center. It is near other West Lake landmarks like the Trấn Quốc Pagoda. |
| Contact | Specific public tourist phone numbers are generally not provided, as the venue is a religious site. |
IV. Dress Code & Travel Tips
Dress Code: Modesty is essential. Visitors should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Temple staff may sometimes offer sarongs or cloths to those deemed inappropriately dressed.
Etiquette:
Remove shoes before entering indoor prayer areas and main halls.
Maintain a low voice and avoid loud conversations.
Photography is generally permitted in the outdoor courtyards, but strictly prohibited inside the main worship halls to respect the devotees.
Transportation: The easiest way to reach the peninsula is by taxi or ride-hailing services (Grab), as it is too far for most visitors to walk from the Old Quarter.
Best Time to Visit: Visit on a weekday morning for the most tranquility. Avoid the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month and major festival dates if you wish to avoid large crowds.
