Thay Pagoda - Thien Phuc Tu

One of the best experiences at Chùa Thầy is standing by Long Trì Lake, where you can take in the full distinctive landscape of Chùa Thầy. In the middle of the lake is an ancient water pavilion, flanked by Nhật Tiên Kiều and Nguyệt Tiên Kiều with graceful curved tile roofs; behind, Sài Sơn mountain embraces the ancient pagoda roofs.

Nhật Tiên Kiều - Nguyệt Tiên Kiều, the graceful curved-tile-roof bridge connecting the two shores. Collected photo

The main pagoda consists of three sections: the Lower Pagoda, the Middle Pagoda, and the Upper Pagoda arranged in the shape of the character Tam. Slow down to admire the wooden structure, tile roofs, worship statues, and light filtering through each pagoda chamber—details that create the uniquely ancient and solemn beauty here.

The water pavilion in the middle of Long Trì Lake is not only an architectural highlight but also a stage for water puppetry—a folk art form long associated with this land and the story of Zen Master Từ Đạo Hạnh.

If you visit Chùa Thầy during the annual third lunar month festival, you will immerse yourself in the lively festival atmosphere by Long Trì Lake, hear festival drums, and enjoy water puppet performances at the ancient water pavilion. The main festival takes place from the 5th to the 7th day of the third lunar month, with traditional rituals, palanquin processions, and many distinctive folk cultural activities rich in Sài Sơn identity.

Water puppetry at the water pavilion of Chùa Thầy—a distinctive cultural feature of the Sài Sơn area. Collected photo

Chùa Thầy now belongs to the Chùa Thầy and Sài Sơn, Hoàng Xá, Phượng Cách rocky mountain area Special National Relic. Leaving the pagoda, what remains is not only the beauty of an ancient temple but also the picture of the Đoài region where mountains, lakes, pagoda roofs, and old stories still coexist in today’s life.

Chùa Thầy nestles at the foot of Sài Sơn mountain, with Long Trì Lake and the ancient water pavilion in front. Collected photo

Please choose polite clothing and keep a quiet atmosphere when entering the worship chambers.

If you plan to go up to the Upper Pagoda or explore Sài Sơn mountain, you should wear easy-to-move shoes because there are many stone steps and sloping sections.

During the third lunar month festival season, visitor numbers are usually higher, so you should arrive early to have time to sightsee and explore Chùa Thầy more fully.