Take a banknote of 10000 dongs. Take a close look at it. In case you forget the way to the Temple of Literature or do not know where it is located, show the banknote to locals, and they will be glad to show you the way. The Temple of Literature is so important in Vietnam, that its image was honored to be on a ten thousand banknote.

There are no floor-to-ceiling shelves full of books, as well as no shushing librarians there. The Temple of Literature (Van Mieu) was built in honor of the greatest philosophers of all time, particularly, in honor of Confucius. Its first stone was laid in 1070, and currently, it is the oldest temple in Vietnam.

After passing the main gates, you get into a row of rooms, halls, pavilions which are full of precious relics and statues of Confucius, his students and followers. In addition, on the territory of 55000 square meters, there are a lake and small yards. In total, there are 5 of them. The yards are separated by three paths. The central was only for monarchs, the right was for representatives of the administration, and the left was for militants. You can try yourself in all three guises.

Before entering the temple, in these yards, you will see many attractions: the “Acquired Talent” gate, the unique literature pavilion and the “Well of Heavenly Purity.” Among the trees, you will see relaxing students. Yes, students. The Temple of Literature is a university.
The Imperial Academy is located in the fifth yard. Students are in the hub of knowledge – the atmosphere of the temple is literally imbued with it. In this place, there are not only student halls, but also dorms.

Take a walk to appreciate that the conditions for studying here are perfect. It is very calm and quiet in the temple complex, even though there are crowds of tourists. The Temple of Literature is an amazing monument of architecture, which you must visit.