Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam is a long-standing cultural symbol of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. It is a place that preserves the essence of the nation’s educational values and history. Let’s explore the unique features hidden within this famous heritage site!
1. General Introduction to Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam
Located in Dong Da District, Hanoi, Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam is Vietnam’s first university, established in 1070 during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong. Not only is it a place dedicated to Confucius and other Confucian scholars, but it also served as an important educational center, training numerous talents for the country. Covering more than 54,000m², the site includes many ancient architectural works such as Khuê Van Cac, Thiên Quang Lake, and the Doctor’s Stelae, creating a harmonious and solemn space.
Today, Van Mieu is not only a famous tourist destination but also a place where students come to pray for success before their exams. It is a place that honors the tradition of valuing education and respecting teachers. A visit to Van Mieu offers not just a chance to explore a long-standing cultural heritage, but also to experience the intellectual brilliance of Vietnam.
2. Opening hours and ticket prices for visiting Van Mieu
Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam is open to visitors every day of the week, including weekends and public holidays. Depending on the season, the visiting hours vary:
- Hot season (April 15 – October 15): from 7:30 AM to 5:30 PM
- Cold season (October 16 – April 14): from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The entrance fee is very reasonable, at only 30,000 VND per person, applicable to both Vietnamese and international visitors. Especially for students and children, the ticket price is even more affordable, at 20,000 VND for students and 10,000 VND for children.
3. History of the establishment of Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam
Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam was constructed in August 1070 during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong. It was not only a place to honor Confucius, Chu Gong, and the Four Great Sages, but also the educational center of the royal court. The first school for the royal descendants, including Crown Prince Ly Canh Duc, was established six years later when King Ly Nhan Tong decided to build Quoc Tu Giam right next to it. During the reign of King Tran Thai Tong, the place was renamed the National Academy, broadening educational opportunities for talented commoners. Under the leadership of Chu Van An in the 14th century, Quoc Tu Giam made significant contributions to the development of Confucian education.
During the reign of King Le Thanh Tong, Van Mieu began to erect the Doctor’s Stelae to honor those who passed the royal exams. Under the Nguyen Dynasty, Quoc Tu Giam was further expanded in Hue, while Van Mieu Hanoi was renovated and officially renamed. However, in 1947, French colonists attacked Van Mieu, causing significant damage to the site. Despite enduring many challenges, Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam has preserved its cultural and historical value, standing as a testament to the Vietnamese people’s tradition of valuing education and respecting teachers. Visit this site to deeply experience the unique values this heritage offers!
4. The distinctive architecture of Van Mieu
Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam heritage site spans approximately 54,331m². It is an architectural masterpiece deeply imprinted with the cultural and historical marks of Vietnam. This complex includes many prominent structures such as Ho Van, Van Mieu, Quoc Tu Giam, Khuê Van Cac, and several Doctor’s Stelae, all enclosed by time-worn brick walls. The architecture of Van Mieu is heavily influenced by the early Nguyen Dynasty imperial style, with a symmetrical layout that forms layered zones following the traditional North-South axis.
The highlight of the architectural complex is the Van Mieu Gate, built in the Tam Quan style, distinguished by the three Chinese characters “Văn Miếu Môn” in ancient Han script. Within the grounds, the areas are separated by walls and gates, creating a quiet and solemn atmosphere. Ho Van Chuong, or Thai Lake, is located in the front, with the Kim Chau mound in the center of the lake, once a perfect spot for sightseeing. The lecture halls are located on both sides, with 14 rooms in each row, alongside three rows of classrooms, each with 25 rooms. These spaces reflect the investment in education and knowledge of that time.
Although it was built following the overall plan of the Van Mieu dedicated to Confucius in China, the scale and architecture of Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam carry a distinct national identity, showcasing the sophistication and unique artistry of the Vietnamese people. This site is not just an architectural structure, but also a symbol of knowledge, culture, and the spirit of learning of the Vietnamese nation.
5. Visitor areas
5.1. The first area
The first area to visit at Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam begins at the main gate, Van Mieu Mon. The gate is designed in the traditional Tam Quan architectural style, with three pathways symbolizing the openness of knowledge and learning. On the roof of the gate, the ancient Chinese characters “Van Mieu Mon” stand out, embodying the long-standing spirit of respect for teachers and the value of education. As you pass through the gate, you will feel the solemn atmosphere, as though being invited to explore the world of culture and knowledge that Van Mieu has preserved for centuries.
Moving deeper into the site, you will come across the Đại Trung Môn Gate, marking the transition from the outer courtyard to the main area of the monument. On either side of the Dai Trung Mon are two smaller gates, Thanh Duc Mon and Dat Tai Mon, which hold profound meanings regarding the cultivation of both talent and virtue in the learning process. Not just an entryway, passing through the Dai Trung Mon leads you into a historically rich space, where the nation’s tradition of valuing education continues to be preserved and celebrated.
5.2. The second area
The second area at Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam is located right after you pass through the Dai Trung Mon Gate, with the highlight being Khue Van Cac. This is a refined and unique architectural structure. While not large in size, Khue Van Cac makes an impression with its harmonious proportions and elegant beauty. The lower level is supported by four sturdy square brick pillars, while the upper level is a square, eight-roofed pavilion with intricate wooden structures. The standout feature is the round windows on all four walls of the upper level, which resemble the sun’s rays, symbolizing the spreading of knowledge and the light of culture.
Standing beneath Khue Van Cac, you will feel the solemn yet vibrant atmosphere of this ancient architecture. On either side of the structure are the Bi Van Mon and Suc Van Mon gates. These gates lead into the Doctor’s Stelae area, where the names of the outstanding scholars in the history of Vietnam’s royal exams are preserved. Khue Van Cac is not only a focal point of the heritage site but also a cultural symbol of Hanoi, leaving a deep impression on visitors from all over.
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5.3. The third area
Next, the third area at Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam holds significant marks in the history of Vietnam’s imperial exams. The focal point of this area is the Thien Quang Tinh Lake, a square-shaped water feature. The name of this lake is full of meaning – “the well that reflects the sunlight.” The surrounding space is encased by rows of lush trees, creating a peaceful and serene atmosphere.
On either side of the lake stand the Doctor’s Stelae, which hold 82 precious stone stelae. Each stela bears the names of those who passed the royal exams from 1442 to 1779, carefully inscribed and placed atop stone turtles. These stone stelae not only reflect the nation’s traditional reverence for education but also symbolize the perpetuity and honor of knowledge across generations.
5.4. The fourth area
The final area of Van Mieu Quoc Tu Giam holds the deepest historical and solemn significance, with two major structures as its centerpiece: the Bai Duong and the Thuong Cung. This is the area dedicated to the worship of Confucius and the Four Great Sages – the famous philosophers Nhan Tu, Tang Tu, Tu Tu, and Mencius. The space exudes not only grandeur and antiquity but also symbolizes the respect for knowledge and Confucian teachings.
Additionally, Thai Hoc area is another important highlight. Over time and through wars, this school was destroyed during the resistance against French colonial rule. However, in 1999, Hanoi restored the Thai Hoc building, including the Tien Duong and Hậu Duog halls. This area honors Kings Ly Thanh Tong, Ly Nhan Tong, Le Thanh Tong, and the educator Chu Van An – figures who made significant contributions to the nation’s education and intellectual development.
6. The significance of Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam
6.1. Historical significance
Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam is a symbol of Vietnam’s education system, marking the development of knowledge and Confucian thought since the Ly Dynasty. It was not only a center for training talent for the royal court but also reflects the cultural and historical values of the nation. The Doctor’s Stelae here testify to the reverence for knowledge and the perseverance of generations of students, reinforcing the position of intellectuals in Vietnamese society throughout different periods.
6.2. Cultural and social significance
Van Mieu is also a rich cultural center, hosting many important events such as poetry festivals, awards for outstanding students, and the early spring calligraphy ceremonies. Especially during the Lunar New Year or exam season, it becomes a gathering place for students and locals, who come to pray for peace and success. Van Mieu is not only a site for worship and honoring the great sages but also a vibrant cultural symbol of the Vietnamese people, closely tied to the spirit of respecting knowledge and ethics in society.
7. Some accommodations near Van Mieu
To fully explore Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam, choosing a nearby place to stay is crucial. Here are some ideal hotels and guesthouses for travelers visiting Hanoi:
Royal Hotel
Location: 19 Hang Chao, Cat Linh, Dong Da
Price: From 273,000 VND/night
Royal Hotel offers a comfortable resting space with spacious and clean rooms. With attentive service and 24/7 support, it provides guests with a pleasant experience, especially at an affordable price.
Hanoi Emotion Hotel
Location: 26-28 Ngo Hang Bot, Cat Linh, Dong Da
Price: From 765,000 VND/night
Situated on a main street, Hanoi Emotion Hotel is conveniently located for travel and sightseeing. The hotel offers a variety of rooms, from singles and doubles to family-sized rooms, ensuring all necessary amenities for a great stay.
A25 Hotel
Location: 12 Ngo Si Lien, Van Mieu, Dong Da
Price: From 669,600 VND/night
With modern design and full amenities, A25 Hotel promises to provide the best relaxing experience. Notably, the hotel stands out with its friendly staff and made-to-order breakfast, creating a homely atmosphere for all guests.
Staying at these accommodations not only provides convenience for sightseeing but also offers an enjoyable experience in your journey to explore the culture and history of Hanoi.
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Van Mieu – Quoc Tu Giam is not only a valuable historical site but also a symbol of Vietnam’s culture of respect for learning. With its elegant architecture and peaceful atmosphere, it attracts millions of visitors every year. By stepping into Van Mieu, you will not only immerse yourself in the beauty of ancient structures but also feel inspired to pursue knowledge.
