Ha Temple is a sacred place closely associated with the belief in love and relationships. It is a must-visit destination when exploring Hanoi. Nestled in a peaceful setting, Ha Temple attracts visitors with its serenity, ancient atmosphere, and the mysterious stories surrounding love and fate. Let’s explore Ha Temple to discover the spiritual significance it holds!
1. Discovering the unique charm of Ha temple
1.1. Location of Ha temple: A sacred place in the heart of the capital
Ha Temple is located on a small street of the same name, Chua Ha Street, in Cau Giay District, Hanoi. The temple’s location is quite special as it lies amidst a bustling urban area yet offers a sense of peace and tranquility. Although tucked away in a small alley, Ha Temple draws numerous visitors due to its sacred reputation and its association with love and relationship blessings. With its convenient location near major roads, Ha Temple is not only a spiritual destination but also an accessible place for those seeking a moment of calm in the bustling heart of Hanoi.
1.2. The historical development of Ha temple through the ages
Ha Temple, also known as Thanh Duc Tu, is an ancient temple that was originally built during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong with the purpose of praying for children. Initially, the temple was called “Chua Voi” due to its construction using large bricks and a simple thatched roof. In 1680, with contributions from two merchants from Bac Giang, the temple was rebuilt using bricks and tiles, and it was renamed Ha Temple. Together with the Boi Ha Communal House, it became a unique historical and cultural site closely linked to the history and culture of Thang Long.
Over the centuries, Ha Temple has endured many challenges but has preserved its special spiritual value. It is renowned for its role in helping people pray for love, despite not worshiping the deities of Mr. To and Mrs. Nguyet. The legendary stories surrounding King Ly Nhan Tong and King Le Thanh Tong further enhance the temple’s mystique. Although the temple suffered significant damage during wars, it has been restored multiple times, and today it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals seeking peace and blessings in their lives.
1.3. Understanding the deities and buddha worshiped at Ha temple
Although Ha Temple is famous for its sacred role in helping people find love, what is particularly unique about it is that it does not worship Mr. To and Mrs. Nguyet, as many people believe. Instead, the temple venerates Duc Ong, the protective deity who brings peace and blessings. Additionally, the temple honors Tam Toa Thanh Mau, the three Mothers who represent Heaven, Earth, and Humanity, granting blessings of health and wealth. Other deities, such as Duc Thanh Hien, symbolizing success in education and academic achievements, are also worshiped at the temple.
In addition, Ha Temple also honors Trieu Viet Vuong – a national hero – and the village’s tutelary god, Trieu Chi Thanh, which strengthens its connection with the nearby Boi Ha Communal House. The blending of Buddhism and indigenous worship of deities has made Ha Temple not only a place for praying for love but also for seeking peace and blessings. This rich spiritual diversity is what makes the temple a sacred destination for both locals and visitors who come to make wishes for a better life.
2. Easy travel guide to Ha temple
Ha Temple is conveniently located not far from downtown Hanoi, making it easy to reach. If you choose personal transportation such as a motorbike or car, simply input “Chua Ha” into Google Maps to find your way. With its advantageous location, many tourists prefer to drive themselves to enjoy the journey through the bustling streets of the capital. If you’re unfamiliar with the route, you can also opt for a taxi or an online ride-hailing service for a quick trip.
For those looking to save on transportation costs, taking the bus is an ideal option. Several bus routes connect the city center to Ha Temple, such as routes 7 and 20C from Cau Giay, or routes 35 and 49 from Tran Khanh Du. If you’re coming from farther away, it’s easy to book a flight to Hanoi from Saigon or Da Nang. After landing, simply take a taxi or bus, and you’ll be at Ha Temple in about 30-40 minutes, ready to enjoy the tranquil and sacred atmosphere in the heart of Hanoi.
3. Information on opening hours and admission fees
Ha Temple is a beloved spiritual site, especially for those hoping to pray for love. The temple is open every day of the week, from Monday to Sunday. On regular days, the temple welcomes visitors from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. On the 15th and the first day of each lunar month, the temple stays open later, accommodating those who are busy during the day and wish to attend the rituals.
Regarding the admission fee, Ha Temple does not charge an entry fee, but visitors are encouraged to make voluntary contributions to support the temple’s maintenance and preservation.
4. Highlights of Ha temple
4.1. A unique complex of ancient relics
Ha Temple is not only famous for its sacred legend of love prayers but also for its ancient architecture that carries rich cultural values. Situated in a westward-facing location, the temple was built in the shape of the character “Đinh,” with a large area containing several unique architectural clusters. The two-story Tam Quan gate with 12 columns is the first highlight, featuring intricate carvings of the sun and fire, along with delicate images of dragons and phoenixes, creating an atmosphere of solemnity and charm.
Upon entering the temple grounds, visitors can experience a peaceful ambiance, with shady trees, a crescent-shaped pond, and classic architectural lines. The mother Temple is dedicated to the worship of various deities. Inside the main temple, there are statues of Buddha arranged in several layers, with prominent figures such as the Three Worlds and Bodhisattvas. Additionally, the Mother Temple also houses statues of various kings and queens, dressed in colorful garments, honoring a wide range of deities in folk belief.
Ha Temple is not only a place of worship but also an attractive destination for visitors interested in learning about the culture and history. Artistic details on the gate and within the temple, such as the Thanh Duc bronze bell and the four-sided Thanh Duc stone stele, serve as evidence of the craftsmanship of ancient artisans. All these elements combine to create a unique cultural tapestry, making Ha Temple an ideal stop for those wishing to explore the spiritual beauty and traditional architecture of Vietnam.
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4.2. The temple of love prayers
Located in the heart of Hanoi, Ha Temple is famous as the “temple of sacred love prayers,” attracting not only Buddhist devotees but also those who long for love and happiness in life. With its unique design divided into several worship areas, the temple offers a tranquil space where visitors can express their thoughts and wishes. Each visit to the temple brings a sense of solemnity and calm. The altars dedicated to Buddha and the Mother Goddess are thoughtfully arranged, providing a place where people commonly pray for peace, luck, and fulfilling romantic desires.
In particular, many people come here with faith and hope, driven by the rumor that “when you leave alone, you return in pairs.” To successfully pray for love, visitors often write a prayer offering and place it at the Tam Tòa Thánh Mẫu altar, hoping that the deities will bear witness and grant them love. Stories of couples who have found happiness, or those who have yet to be lucky in love, have made this place a symbol of love and connection. If you are still “single,” be sure to prepare a proper offering and pray sincerely. Who knows, the upcoming cold season might bring you a new love, just like the beautiful stories the temple has witnessed for generations.
5. Detailed Guide on How to Worship at Ha Temple
5.1. Proper Preparation of Offerings
When visiting this temple, famous for its many sacred stories, preparing the offerings carefully is essential to demonstrate your sincerity and respect. Each altar in the temple has specific rules regarding the offerings, so preparing them thoroughly and correctly will help make your prayers more effective. The Tam Bảo altar, dedicated to Buddha, requires carefully selected offerings. You should prepare incense sticks, a candle tray, candies, fresh fruits, and a prayer written on a paper to express your thoughts and wishes. Note that you should never offer salty food or money and gold at this altar, as it is not in accordance with the traditional practices of worship at the Buddha altar.’
The ‘Duc Ong’ altar allows for the offering of salty food such as wine, tea, and tobacco, along with items like sticky rice, pork rolls, and boiled meat. Money and gold are also important and should not be forgotten. Be sure to prepare a separate prayer offering for Đức Ông to convey your desires.
Finally, the Mother Altar is the most important place for praying for love. The offerings here should include five fresh red roses, money and gold, betel leaves and areca nuts, sweets, and small change ranging from 1,000 VND to 20,000 VND, depending on your sincerity, along with a prayer for love placed at the offering tray. Each offering does not need to be elaborate, but it should reflect your sincere heart and respect for the deities. To ensure your prayer is more effective, make sure that all the offerings are well-prepared and presented beautifully, so that your peaceful soul and sincere devotion guide you in your journey of seeking love at the temple.
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5.2. The process of lighting incense and prayers for love
When entering Ha Temple, lighting incense and performing prayers are important rituals to show your respect and wishes.
Process of lighting incense
The first step is to offer your offerings at the ‘Tam Bao’ altar, where Buddha is worshiped. After placing the offerings, light three incense sticks at the Tam Bao altar, the ‘Duc Ong’ altar, and the Mother Altar. Then, light one incense stick at the ‘Duc Thanh Hien’ altar, and the last one should be offered at the large incense burner, where everyone lights incense and prays. Remember to bow three times at each altar to show your respect.
How to pray for love
When praying, at the ‘Tam Bao’ altar, ask for peace for yourself and your family. At the ‘Duc Ong’ altar, pray for success in your career and social standing. Finally, at the ‘Duc Thanh Hien’ altar, ask for enlightenment in your studies. After finishing your prayers, bow twice at the Đức Hộ Pháp altar and three times at the altar of the two Thap Nhi Diem Vuong (Twelve Kings of Hell).
The Mother Love Prayer is the most important part of the ceremony. Join your hands in prayer facing the Mother altar and prepare a prayer for love, expressing your sincere heart. Following the proper procedure and prayers will help you convey your thoughts and wishes to the deities, bringing you the best of blessings, especially on the path to finding love.
5.3. Prayers at the temple
5.3.1. Prayer for the deities and buddha
The prayer for love at Ha Temple holds deep meaning and expresses the devotee’s sincere reverence before the deities and the Buddha. Below is the prayer that many people use when visiting the temple:
“Nam Mô A Di Da Phat!
Nam Mô A Di Da Phat!
Nam Mô A Di Da Phat!
I bow to the nine directions of Heaven, to all the Buddhas of the ten directions, to all the Buddhas of the ten directions.
Today is the [date], [month], [year].
The devotee is: [name]
Residing at: [address]
Together with my entire family, I respectfully stand before the ‘Dai Hung Bao Dien’ in the Temple… and offer this incense with a sincere heart, humbly praying:
To the Buddha Shakyamuni, to Buddha Amitabha, to all Buddhas of the ten directions, to the Supreme Buddha Dharma, to Avalokiteshvara, the Great Bodhisattva, and to the Holy Virtuous Sangha.
I, a disciple who has long accumulated heavy karmic obstacles, have been confused and lost.
Today, I stand before the Buddha’s altar, sincerely repent, vow not to commit evil deeds, and vow to perform good deeds, hoping for the mercy and blessings of the Buddha, Avalokiteshvara, the Holy Virtuous Sangha, the Heavenly Dragons and Eightfold Divisions, and the Guardian Deities. May they bless us and our family with peace of mind, free from sickness, and may we daily follow the teachings of the Buddha’s miraculous Dharma, so that our fortune may be prosperous and we may be forever blessed with the Buddha’s grace.
May we be able to save and deliver our respected elders, parents, siblings, relatives, and all sentient beings, guiding them to the Buddhist path.
With a sincere heart and devotion, I humbly ask for your witnessing and blessings.
Nam Mô A Di Da Phat!
Nam Mô A Di Da Phat!
Nam Mô A Di Da Phat!”
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5.3.2. Special prayer for love at Ha temple
The prayer for love at Ha Temple is not only a traditional ritual but also an opportunity for devotees to express their sincerity and desire to seek true love. With the sacred presence of the Mẫu (Mother Goddesses), many individuals have found happiness and love connections after offering heartfelt prayers here. Below is a sample prayer for love that you may refer to:
“Nam Mo A Di Da Phat, Nam Mo A Di Da Phat, Nam Mo A Di Da Phat.”
I respectfully bow to the Jade Emperor,
I respectfully bow to the Nine Heavens and the Six Palaces Princesses,
I respectfully bow to the Celestial Immortal Quynh Hoa Mau Lien Hanh,
I respectfully bow to the Second Goddess of the Mountain and the Forest, Mau Thuong Ngan,
I respectfully bow to the Third Goddess of Water, Mau Thoai.
I, named: [Name],
Born on: [Date] (Lunar calendar),
Residing at: [Address],
Today, on [Date] (Lunar calendar), I come to the temple, offering my respects to thank Mau Lieu Hanh, Mau Thuong Ngan and Mau Thoai for their protection and blessings to my family in the past time.
As mere mortals, if I have done anything wrong, I respectfully ask the ‘Mau’ to forgive me. I vow to correct myself and strive to do good deeds, steering clear of evil actions.
I humbly ask the Mẫu to show mercy and help me, for the right conditions for my lifetime marriage have not yet arrived. Please grant me the good fortune I wish for and bless me with a suitable partner as I desire. Let me meet someone who [this part can be personalized to describe the desired qualities in a partner], whose heart and mind are aligned, faithful and compassionate. May we soon come together, sharing life’s joys and sorrows.
I now humbly present this offering with sincere devotion before the Mẫu, and respectfully ask for your blessings and protection so that I may fulfill my wish for a loving relationship.
“Nam Mo A Di Da Phat, Nam Mo A Di Da Phat, Nam Mo A Di Da Phat.”
I respectfully conclude this prayer with three bows. (After completing the prayer, bow three times.)
Ha Temple is not only a sacred place of worship but also an ideal destination for those seeking peace and love. With its serene atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and unique traditional rituals, the temple provides visitors with a sense of tranquility and warmth. Be sure to visit the temple on full moon or first days of the month to experience its sacred ambiance and participate in special love-praying rituals. Don’t forget to prepare thoughtful offerings and immerse yourself in these peaceful, reflective moments. We look forward to welcoming you to Ha Temple, where your wishes and faith will be entrusted. Come and feel the miracles Ha Temple brings to your life!
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