One of the oldest and most fascinating places in Hanoi is located on a small island of Golden Fish on the eastern side of West Lake. Among the dense foliage of various trees, surrounded by the water surface of the largest reservoir in the city, stands the Trấn Quốc Pagoda – the oldest Buddhist temple in the Vietnamese capital. During the day, it is an important shrine and attraction for many tourists from all over the world. In the evening, it turns into one of Hanoi's most romantic places, which is really popular among couples in love.

The Trấn Quốc Pagoda was built in 541 when Lý Nam Đế was in power. It was originally located on the bank of the Red River, where it stood for more than 1000 years. At the turn of the 15-16th centuries, the ancient pagoda was threatened with flooding. The Vietnamese government decided to move the shrine to its current location, where it was later expanded and restored. And for more than 400 years, the Trấn Quốc Pagoda has adorned the West Lake in the center of Hanoi.

Over its long history, the Trấn Quốc Pagoda has changed not only its location but also its name. First, it was named Khai Quốc, which means «open country». At various times, it was renamed as An Quốc, Chan Bak, and Thai Tong. This pagoda acquired its final name in the 17th century under Emperor Lê Hy Tông. He gave it the name «peaceful country», which it still bears today.

The island on which the Trấn Quốc Pagoda stands really looks like a separate state, which has become the opposite of modern hectic Vietnam. There is an atmosphere of peace, tranquility, and serenity. Do you want to take a break from the busy and crowded streets of Hanoi and relax in silence? The Trấn Quốc Pagoda is the best place for this.

The shrine is a small temple consisting of several altars, tombs, and a bell tower. The main decoration of it is the Central Tower with a height of 15 meters. It resembles a set of neatly stacked lotus flowers. It is distinguished by a sharp spire mounted on the top, and many Buddha statues in special windows.