Do Temple
Located in Dinh Bang Ward, Tu Son City, Bắc Ninh, Do temple (Đền Đô — also known as Ly Bat De Temple — is the ancestral temple dedicated to the eight emperors of the Ly dynasty.
Just 20 km from Hanoi, this historic complex is one of northern Vietnam’s most important cultural and spiritual landmarks. For travelers seeking to understand the origins of Vietnam’s long-standing capital and imperial heritage, Do temple offers an essential historical experience.
View Do Temple (Đền Đô) on Google map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/g381D66dWFuptsd7A
Historical background of Do temple
Do temple was built in the 11th century in the homeland of the Ly royal family. It commemorates the dynasty that ruled Dai Viet from 1009 to 1225 — a golden era marked by political stability, cultural flourishing, and Buddhist influence.
The dynasty was founded by Lý Thái Tổ (Ly Cong Uan), who issued the famous Edict on the Transfer of the Capital in 1010, moving the capital from Hoa Lu to Thăng Long (modern-day Hanoi). This decision laid the foundation for Hanoi as a millennium-old capital.
The Ly dynasty is remembered for:
- Establishing a centralized monarchy
- Promoting Buddhism as the dominant religion
- Developing education and Confucian examinations
- Successfully defending the country from foreign invasions
Do temple stands as a symbol of gratitude, national identity, and respect for royal ancestors.
The eight emperors worshiped at Do temple
Do temple honors all eight Ly emperors:
- Lý Thái Tổ (r. 1009–1028) – Founder of the dynasty and relocator of the capital to Thang Long.
- Lý Thái Tông (r. 1028–1054) – Strengthened administration and royal authority.
- Lý Thánh Tông (r. 1054–1072) – Renamed the country Dai Viet and promoted Buddhism and education.
- Lý Nhân Tông (r. 1072–1127) – Oversaw a long and prosperous reign; developed the Imperial Academy in Thang Long.
- Lý Thần Tông (r. 1128–1138) – Maintained stability and internal order.
- Lý Anh Tông (r. 1138–1175) – Managed diplomacy and internal governance challenges.
- Lý Cao Tông (r. 1176–1210) – Faced political unrest during a period of decline.
- Lý Huệ Tông (r. 1211–1224) – The last ruling Ly emperor before the transition to the Tran dynasty.
This is why the site is often called “Ly Bat De Temple” (Temple of the Eight Ly Emperors).
Architecture and layout
The Do temple complex covers approximately 31,000 square meters and follows traditional northern Vietnamese architectural principles.
Key highlights include:
- Ngu Long Mon (Five-Dragon Gate)
- A semicircular lake in front of the temple
- Phuong Dinh pavilion
- Front hall (Tien Te)
- Rear sanctuary (Hau Cung), where the royal tablets are placed
- Stone steles and ancient trees
The curved roofs, dragon carvings, wooden beams, and tranquil courtyards reflect classical imperial aesthetics. The atmosphere is peaceful and spiritual, especially outside festival periods.
Do temple festival
The Do temple festival takes place annually from the 14th to the 16th day of the third lunar month.
Festival highlights include:
- Royal-style procession ceremonies
- Incense offerings
- Traditional music performances, including Quan Ho folk singing
- Cultural games and community events
For international visitors, this is the best time to experience authentic northern Vietnamese traditions.
Visitor information
Location: Dinh Bang Ward, Tu Son City, Bac Ninh Province
Distance from Hanoi: Around 30–40 minutes by car
Opening hours: Typically 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Entrance fee: Free (donations welcome)
Best time to visit
- Spring (March–April)
- Autumn (September–November)
Travel tips for foreign visitors
- Dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees).
- Remove hats in sacred areas.
- Maintain quiet and respectful behavior.
- Combine your trip with other cultural attractions in Bac Ninh.
Nearby attractions in Bac Ninh
You can combine your trip with:
- Chùa Phật Tích – famous for its Ly-era stone Buddha statue
- Dau Pagoda (Chùa Dâu) – considered the oldest Buddhist temple in Vietnam
- Làng tranh Đông Hồ – a traditional woodblock painting village
FAQ – Do temple (Den Do) for international visitors
What is Den Do Temple?
Den Do Temple is the ancestral temple of the eight Ly dynasty emperors located in Bac Ninh Province, near Hanoi.
What is Do temple famous for?
Do temple is famous as the ancestral temple of the eight emperors of the Ly dynasty, one of Vietnam’s most important royal dynasties.
Why is Den Do important?
It honors the Ly dynasty, which established Thang Long (Hanoi) as Vietnam’s capital in 1010.
Is Den Do worth visiting?
Yes. It is a significant historical and architectural site ideal for travelers interested in Vietnamese imperial history.
Where is Do temple located?
It is located in Dinh Bang Ward, Tu Son City, Bac Ninh Province, about 20 km northeast of Hanoi.
How do I get to Do temple from Hanoi?
Visitors can reach Do temple by taxi, private car, or motorbike in about 30–40 minutes from central Hanoi.
How far is Den Do from Hanoi?
Approximately 20 kilometers northeast of Hanoi (30–40 minutes by car).
Is there an entrance fee?
Entrance is generally free. Visitors may offer voluntary donations.
How long should I spend there?
Most travelers spend 1–2 hours exploring the complex.
Can I visit Do temple as a day trip?
Yes. It is an ideal half-day cultural excursion from Hanoi and can be combined with nearby pagodas and traditional villages.
