Tiếng Việt
Quang Binh has long been famous for its many tourist attractions that attract both domestic and international visitors, such as the UNESCO World Heritage Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, Kim Phong Pagoda – Mount Than Dinh, and more. Particularly, when it comes to cultural and spiritual tourism, Lieu Hanh Mother Temple stands out as an essential destination, known for its sacred atmosphere and honoring a legendary figure in folk beliefs.
The Legend of Lieu Hanh Mother
Lieu Hanh Princess, along with Son Tinh, Thanh Giong, and Chu Dong Tu, is one of the “Four Immortals” worshipped by the people. Lieu Hanh Mother is the only female figure elevated to the status of a deity in the Hau Le dynasty’s pantheon.
According to legend, Lieu Hanh was the second princess of the Jade Emperor, known for her free-spirited and rebellious nature. After repeatedly breaking the rules, the Jade Emperor decided to punish her by sending her to Earth for three years. Upon her arrival, Lieu Hanh transformed into a beautiful girl and opened a tea shop at the foot of Deo Ngang. Anyone traveling through the pass would stop at her shop to rest and admire the beautiful shopkeeper.
Though punished, Lieu Hanh continued her mischievous ways, teasing those who came to her shop. One day, a prince visited, and after drinking wine and becoming infatuated with her beauty, he made an improper advance. The prince fell unconscious and pale as a result of his actions. The news reached the king, who was enraged and ordered her punishment, but after a wise response from Lieu Hanh, she was forgiven and allowed to return to her divine duties.
The story of Lieu Hanh Mother symbolizes the desire for justice and the liberation of women from societal constraints, representing a model for Vietnamese women to aspire to.
Lieu Hanh Mother Temple – A Tribute to the Great Woman
Lieu Hanh Mother Temple is located at the foot of Deo Ngang in Quang Dong, Quang Trach District, Quang Binh. The temple, covering an area of about 335 square meters, lies in a peaceful setting with Hoanh Son Mountain behind and a freshwater lake in front. Though small, the temple is built with brick and stone, reflecting the traditional beauty of Eastern architecture. Its symmetrical and harmonious entrance gate conveys the solemnity and integrity of the temple.
The temple’s decorative motifs are deeply connected to philosophical beliefs and dreams of prosperity from the feudal society, including symbols like the Four Sacred Creatures (Dragon, Unicorn, Tortoise, Phoenix) and the Four Treasures (Pine, Bamboo, Plum, Lotus), which symbolize auspiciousness and vitality.
Lieu Hanh is viewed by the Vietnamese people as a divine figure, embodying the aspirations of women to break free from societal constraints and achieve happiness in family life. Every year, thousands of visitors come to the temple to pray for peace and prosperity during the lunar New Year and other festive occasions.
A Sacred Place for Peace and Blessings
While the temple is not large enough to accommodate many visitors at once, it still attracts numerous tourists each year. The temple is known for its spiritual significance, and visitors often light incense to pray for peace and well-being for their families. Additionally, the temple is conveniently located near other famous tourist sites such as Deo Ngang, Vung Chua, and Yen Island, making it an ideal stop for travelers.
Lieu Hanh Mother Temple represents the Vietnamese cultural reverence for women, and the tradition of worshipping mothers is a long-standing and popular phenomenon in Vietnam, rooted in the country’s history and social fabric.
The temple’s serene and tranquil atmosphere makes it a place of reflection, and many people come here to pay homage, finding peace and spiritual solace.
Annual Festivals at Lieu Hanh Mother Temple
As part of the folk belief system in Vietnam, Lieu Hanh Mother Temple has been an integral part of Quang Binh’s spiritual and cultural life for centuries. Every year, on the 3rd of the 3rd lunar month, the procession of Thanh Ba (Mother Goddess) takes place at Vinh Son Village’s communal house in Quang Trach District. This festival is not only a religious ceremony but also a cultural event filled with traditional practices and spiritual beliefs of the Vietnamese people.
How to Get to Lieu Hanh Mother Temple
To reach Lieu Hanh Mother Temple, travelers from Hanoi can head south on National Highway 1A to Dong Hoi, Quang Binh, which is approximately 488 km away. Alternatively, if you take the Ho Chi Minh Road, the journey will be slightly longer at 520 km due to winding roads.
Since the distance is considerable, you may prefer to fly to Quang Binh for convenience. However, you can also travel by train, bus, or motorbike, though these options might take longer and be more physically demanding. Make sure to consider your health for a safe and enjoyable trip.
From Dong Hoi city center, continue on National Highway 1A for about 65 km to reach the temple. If you are unsure of the way, you can ask local people for directions or simply use GPS for easy navigation.
Other Attractions in Quang Binh
Quang Binh is not only famous for its spiritual destinations but also for its rich historical sites and natural caves. If you are planning a trip to Quang Binh, make sure to visit other remarkable places such as Phong Nha-Ke Bang, Song Chay Hang Toi, and more.
In addition to Lieu Hanh Mother Temple, Quang Binh also offers several other spiritual attractions like Kim Phong Pagoda – Mount Than Dinh and Thuan Bai Communal House. These places allow visitors to experience the unique beauty of Quang Binh while paying respects and seeking blessings for themselves and their families.
Quang Binh is a land full of potential for tourism, offering visitors a mix of mysterious beauty and unforgettable experiences. Each place in Quang Binh tells its own story, making the region a truly unique and perfect destination for travelers.