14 daysHanoi
14-day Vietnam Itinerary | Breathtaking | Island relaxing 2026-27
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Photo: Chuoibk, CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia CommonsTemple of Literature, Hanoi
Hanoi and the north
Founded in 1070 as a temple to Confucius, the Temple of Literature became Vietnam's first university in 1076. Its five walled courtyards, gates and ponds are an oasis of calm in central Hanoi.
Look for the stone stelae on tortoise backs, carved with the names of scholars who passed the royal exams. Students still visit before exams for luck.
What to see
- Constellation of Literature pavilion. The elegant gate pavilion that appears on the 100,000 dong note.
- Stelae of doctors. Stone tablets on carved tortoises recording successful scholars.
- The Well of Heavenly Clarity. A square pond at the centre of the third courtyard.
- The Imperial Academy. The rebuilt academy buildings in the fifth courtyard.
Where it is
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Temple of Literature, Hanoi: questions
How much is the Temple of Literature ticket?
70,000 VND for adults, paid in cash at the ticket office.
Is there a dress code?
Yes: cover your shoulders and knees, and take off hats inside the sanctuaries.