Temple of Literature & National University, Hanoi

One of the most beautiful and photography-worthy temples in Vietnam. However, when I went it started bucketing down rain and the area started to flood, meaning people could not enter or exit without taking their shoes off. That doesn't detract from the attraction as it is beautiful, but just keep that in mind if it is forecast to rain on your visit. You may want to consider wearing sandals or similar just in case. The only downside is that there are very few English signs around if you are not a Vietnamese local. They do sell audio guides, though a few tourists I spoke to mentioned they were not fantastic. I'd suggest researching the place before you go so that you can appreciate the gardens, stone tablets, etc more during your visit.

The location of this place is an advantage for those wanting to visit other famous places inside the central area. They offer a discount price for student at the ticket price of 15,000 VND, so if you are a student, bring your student ID card to get the discount. Honestly, this place is not that much attractive like on the advertisement. The environment is green but the majority of the construction is rebuilt so the historic characteristics are not well remained. No parking area for car, but might be available for bike. However, the bus system is very supportive if you travel inside the center. There is one bus system in front of this place and they also offer discount for student.

Hanoi Temple of Literature is the first historical and cultural architecture complex of Hanoi capital as well as Vietnam country. In 1076, the Kinh Ly Nhan Tong allowed to build the Royal college with the purpose as the first university of Vietnam, this architecture was located behind the Temple of Literature, in the first periods this university is just used for the princes, the royals, the gentlemen until 1232 the Temple of Literature has been opened more and selected the locals and persons who learn well to take part in the exams at here. The architecture complex of Hanoi Temple of Literature is situated on the total area around 54331m2. Now a day, in front of Hanoi Temple of Literature still contain a large lake and this lake is called Van Chuong Lake, the old name was still called Thai Ho. This lake looks as a mirror, there are a lot of the different and big trees around the lake so that the tourist will feel very cool and comfortable once walking to this lake in the first time. Hanoi Temple of Literature is located in the center of Hanoi capital, this famous and historical site is mentioned very clearly on Hanoi travel map so that it is very easy for the tourist to find and visit this site from anywhere in Hanoi. Hanoi Temple of Literature is also the proud of Hanoi an as well as all Vietnamese, so that you should not miss to visit this famous destination once travel to Hanoi.

It is the oldest University building in Vietnam. The guider audio tour in English is really good. It has detailed information about the history and events of the place. Also there are cultural explanations.

One of my favourite place to visit whenever I am in Hanoi! This place has a peaceful and tranquil settings where you can get a gist of life of a scholar in the past.