Foreign Tourists Converge at Hanoi’s Temple of Literature for Cultural and Historical Immersion
Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, the Temple of Literature stands as a bastion of Vietnamese culture and history, drawing visitors from across the globe who come not just to explore its stunning architecture, but to delve deep into the rich academic heritage it symbolizes. Originally built in 1070 under the reign of Emperor Ly Thanh Tong, the temple is Vietnam’s first national university and remains a key attraction for those seeking to understand the country’s intellectual traditions and Confucian heritage.
 | "Colors Of Culture": 60 International Artists Paintings Displayed At The Temple Of Literature |
| Vietnamese Calligraphy Exhibition Highlights Literary Masterpieces |
 |
| Walking into the Temple of Literature is like stepping back in time. Its sprawling five courtyards, lined with ancient trees, ponds, and stone sculptures, guide visitors through a chronological journey of Vietnam’s past. (Photo: Thu Phuong) |
 |
| The highlight for many is the Stelae of Doctors, an area housing 82 stone tortoises, each carrying a towering tablet that memorializes the scholars who passed rigorous royal exams during the Le and Mac dynasties. Seeing these stelae is a profoundly moving experience for visitors like David from the US. "Each tablet tells stories of those who contributed to Vietnamese society through their intellect and dedication," said he. (Photo: Thu Phuong) |
 |
| To make the experience more engaging, the temple offers interactive workshops in calligraphy and historical storytelling sessions for visitors. Guided tours in multiple languages provide context about Confucianism’s impact on Vietnam’s educational system, political hierarchy, and social customs, with insights into the symbolism in the temple’s architecture. (Photo: Thu Phuong) |
 |
| The Temple of Literature's international appeal lies in its unique blend of cultural, historical, and spiritual elements, and its significance resonates deeply with those interested in Asian history. (Photo: Thu Phuong) |
 |
| The site has become a focal point for educational tourism in Vietnam, drawing groups of students, researchers, and cultural enthusiasts. (Photo: Thu Phuong) |
 |
| As foreign visitors continue to flock to the Temple of Literature, Vietnamese officials are implementing measures to preserve the temple’s authenticity while enhancing visitor experience. Efforts to maintain its architectural beauty and safeguard historical artifacts ensure that future generations will be able to appreciate its significance. (Photo: Thu Phuong) |
 | Young Vietnamese Artists Inspired By Japanese’s Ukiyo-e Prints With inspiration from Ukiyo-e, a Japanese wood painting technique, young Vietnamese artists bring a personal touch to their work, creating an artistic interplay between Vietnam ... |
 | International Tourists Ask for Calligraphic Works at Temple of Literature Foreign tourists enjoy the custom of asking for the first word in spring at the beginning of the year at Hanoi’s Van Mieu-Quoc Tu Giam. |
Related Stories
Travel
New Year’s Day 2026: Vietnam’s Tourism Makes Impressive Start with 3.5 Million Visitors
During the New Year’s Day holiday of 2026 (from January 1 to January 4), Vietnam’s tourism sector is estimated to have welcomed and served approximately 3.5 million visitors.
January 06, 2026 | 15:10
Travel
Vietnam’s Villages Attract Growing Numbers of Experience-Seeking Travelers
In recent years, rural tourism has emerged as a vibrant trend among international travelers visiting Vietnam.
October 15, 2025 | 14:43
Recommended
Travel
Vietnam Among World’s 28 Most Beautiful Countries
According to the Viet Nam National Authority of Tourism, Condé Nast Traveler has recently named Viet Nam among the 28 most beautiful countries in the world. The magazine praised the S-shaped country as a paradise for nature lovers and those who enjoy outdoor experiences.
March 22, 2026 | 13:07
Travel
Vietnamese Passport Reaches Highest Rank in 11 Years
In the March ranking of the Henley Passport Index, Vietnam’s passport rose seven places compared to 2025, ranking 84th and reaching its highest position in the past 11 years.
March 18, 2026 | 15:54
Travel
Vietnam Tourism Attracts French Visitors
Vietnam is increasingly affirming its appeal to French tourists thanks to a harmonious combination of diverse natural landscapes, rich cultural identity, and the country’s dynamic development.
March 18, 2026 | 11:43
Travel
Vietnam's New Competitive Advantage in Tourism
In the global tourism landscape, cuisine is becoming a special "language" for countries to define their image and win over tourists. With its rich and distinctive culinary traditions, Vietnam has a great opportunity to transform its culinary culture into a national asset.
March 08, 2026 | 18:10
Travel
Vietnam’s Tourism Sector Kicks Off 2026 with 14 Million Tet Holiday Arrivals
During the nine-day Lunar New Year (Tet) holiday of the Year of the Fire Horse 2026, Vietnam’s tourism sector welcomed approximately 14 million visitors, marking a 12% increase compared to the same period in 2025. The spring tourism landscape recorded balanced growth in both domestic and international arrivals, spreading from major urban centers to numerous localities and generating momentum toward the sector’s 2026 growth targets.
February 25, 2026 | 14:28
Travel
Vietnam Remains One of the World’s Most “Affordable” Destinations in 2026
According to the French online newspaper Journal du Net (JDN), Vietnam is emerging as one of the world’s most affordable destinations, particularly attractive to Europeans seeking a place to live or enjoy an extended stay.
February 22, 2026 | 10:15
Travel
Nearly 4,200 Cruise Passengers “First-Foot” Da Nang During the Lunar New Year of Binh Ngo 2026
In the early days of the Lunar New Year of Binh Ngo 2026, Da Nang consecutively welcomed international cruise ships carrying nearly 4,200 European and American visitors for sightseeing tours. The arrivals created a vibrant atmosphere from the very beginning of the year and signaled a promising start to the city’s marine tourism season.
February 20, 2026 | 16:16
Travel
International Arrivals to Vietnam Hit New Record in 2025, up Over 20%
The year 2025 marked an impressive growth milestone for Vietnam’s tourism sector, as the number of international visitors to Vietnam reached an all-time high, increasing by more than 20% compared to 2024 and far exceeding pre-COVID-19 levels.
January 10, 2026 | 08:16