Quan Su Pagoda, Hanoi

Quan Su Pagoda, located on Quan Su Street in Hanoi, stands as both the largest and most frequented pagoda in the city. This historic site serves as the headquarters of the Buddhist Sangha of Vietnam, playing a central role in the country's Buddhist activities.

The origins of Quan Su Pagoda trace back to a modest structure under a thatched roof in An Tap village, where local villagers gathered for worship. During the 15th century, under the Le Dynasty, the pagoda was expanded into a more significant temple, earning the nickname "Ambassador’s Pagoda." This name derived from its proximity to a guest house established by the Le emperors for foreign envoys, who were predominantly Buddhists and used the temple as their place of worship.

A key figure in the pagoda's history is the monk Thanh Phuong, who undertook extensive renovations, enhancing the temple's structure with additional corridors and revitalizing its religious statues through painting. He also commissioned a new bell for the temple, enriching its spiritual ambiance. The temple layout is divided into two main sections: the front is dedicated to the Buddha, while the rear honors Master Minh Khong of the Ly Dynasty.

In 1934, the Tonkin Buddhist Association selected Quan Su Pagoda as their headquarters, further solidifying its significance in Vietnamese Buddhism. Although the adjacent guest house for ambassadors has since been closed, Quan Su Pagoda continues to thrive as a pivotal center for Buddhist practice and culture in Vietnam.