Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen Monastery

Truc Lam Yen Tu Monastery is a vast temple complex where monks practice meditation, study Buddhist scriptures, and philosophy. It's likened to a school for practitioners, where monks are taught scripture recitation, Buddhist philosophy, and the principles of meditation.

Truc Lam Yen Tu Monastery is situated on Yen Tu Mountain in Thuong Yen Con commune, Uong Bi city. The monastery, also known as Lan Temple, was chosen by King Tran Nhan Tong for meditation. In 1293, he renovated Lân Temple to enhance its solemnity and grandeur. Here, the Emperor often recited scriptures and preached to the monks and devotees.

The architecture of the temples in Truc Lam Yen Tu is considered the epitome of reconstructed Buddhist architecture, faithfully replicating the original designs. The two-story, eight-roofed Tam Quan gate stands majestically atop stone steps, leading into the main courtyard with its red brick floor. The temple roof, adorned with curved tile scales resembling the head of a sword, points straight towards the sky.

According to ancient legend, when the Emperor decided to renounce his throne to become a monk, the palace maidens and concubines tried their best to dissuade him. Unable to change his mind, they left the palace and settled near the foot of the mountain to care for and advise the Emperor. Despite their efforts, the Emperor refused to return to the palace and ordered them to leave. Out of loyalty and gratitude, they drowned themselves in the stream. Later, people built the Bridge of Redemption and the Redemption Pagoda to worship and commemorate the loyalty of those palace maidens and concubines.