Bach Ma Temple

Bach Ma Temple is one of the oldest temples in Hanoi, quietly located in the Old Quarter but rich in history and symbolism. The temple is dedicated to Long Do – the White Horse deity, associated with a famous legend from the Ly Dynasty. When King Ly Thai To moved the capital to Thang Long, the city walls kept collapsing. After praying here, a white horse appeared and left its footprints, guiding the king on how to build the walls successfully. What many visitors don’t realize is that Bach Ma Temple is the Eastern Guardian of Thang Long, part of the sacred system known as the Four Guardian Temples of ancient Hanoi. The other three guardian temples are Quán Thánh temple near Westlake (northern), Kim Liên temple (southern), Voi Phục temple (western). This gave the site an important spiritual role in protecting the old capital. The temple is small and modest, but its atmosphere is calm, authentic, and deeply local. It feels less touristy than many other sites, making it a great place to experience traditional Vietnamese beliefs. Similar to the legend of the Golden Turtle helping King Le, the White Horse reflects how Vietnamese folk culture connects spiritual guardians with national history. It is a quiet but meaningful stop if you want to understand Hanoi beyond the surface. The entrance fee is only 20.000vnd (77 cent usd) for the temple maintainance. If you happen to be in Hanoi during Tết 2026_ the most important holiday for Vietnamese people, you can go for free and really enjoy the cheerful and vivid atmosphere at the Temple . It is truly a great way to start the new vibrant year🎉🎉🎉🎆

Nice to explore inside of an old and important temple here. 20k per person to visit.

Banch Ma Temple is a very peaceful and beautiful place. The view is amazing, and the temple feels calm and spiritual. The walk to the temple is nice, surrounded by nature. It’s a great place to relax and enjoy the quiet atmosphere

One of the four guarding temples of Thang Long, that were built in four directions of the citadel to protect the capital from malevolent spirits. Bach Ma temple nestled in the center of the old quarter and protects the east of the capital. One theory is that the temple was built in the 9th century and named Long Do Temple, to pay tribute to Long Do - an ancient deity that made a huge contribution to the country. It was renamed to Bach Ma Temple by King Ly Thai To. Another theory is that the temple was built by King Ly Thai To after the capital was relocated from Hoa Lu to Thang Long in 1010.

A nice, small temple in the heart of old quarter.

Historical records indicate that although the temple has been renovated many times, it has stood in this location for nearly 1,000 years. There have been numerous fires and bombings during wartime, yet the temple remains unharmed. When you step through the gate of the temple, it feels as though you are entering a different dimension, untouched by the hustle and bustle of the city's busiest area, the Old Quarter.

Loved my visit there

Absolutely incredible. The history is amazing. I highly recommend you get a guided tour for all the amazing historical information