Ba De Temple leans against Doc Mountain, the front opens to the vast ocean, is a symbolic spiritual destination that tourists cannot miss when traveling to Do Son, Hai Phong. The temple is not only attracted by the picturesque landscape of mountains and rivers but also by the tragic legendary story of a "beauty with a bad fate".
Ba De Temple worships Mrs. Dao Thi Huong - a talented and beautiful daughter in the ancient Ngoc Do Son region. Legend has it that she was born thanks to the sincere prayers of a poor virtuous couple. Right from birth, she emitted a fragrant scent and a strange aura. The older she got, the more beautiful she became and her voice captivated people.
One day, Lord Trinh Giang went to inspect Do Son, when strolling through the scenic spots, he was moved by the emotional singing voice and the swaying beauty of her, the Lord loved and cherished her. After a while, she became pregnant, Hang Tong knew about it and forced her parents to pay a fine. But because the family was poor and had no money to pay the fine, Hang Tong drowned her in the sea.
Before the waterfall, she looked up to the sky and cried, asking the Buddha to witness, when she was drowned in water, if there was injustice, she could rise up three times. Witnessing the scene of her rising up three times, everyone who witnessed it could not help but be terrified of the sacredness. Later, when he learned about the injustice, Lord Trinh ordered the construction of a temple and established a altar to exonerate her. When King Tu Duc returned to visit the temple, he bestowed the title "Dong Nhac De Ba - Trinh Chua Phu Nhan".
The architecture of the temple is simple but exudes elegance and majesty. The main hall is the place to worship Ba De and her mother. The two sides are harmoniously arranged with the altar of Tam Toa Thanh Mau, the altar of the Sea King, Earth King, Mountain King and sentient beings.
The highlight at the temple yard is the image of a boat carrying a Bodhisattva statue with a pair of winding dragons, adding to the tranquility and majesty. Although it once deteriorated, since 1988, thanks to the enthusiasm of local people, the temple has been restored to its current state.
Hai Phong people and pilgrims often tell each other that Ba De Temple is the most sacred place to pray for fortune and exoneration. In particular, those who are facing injustice in life or their loved ones are suspected often come to Ba's gate to sincerely pray, hoping to receive understanding and protection.
Every year, on the 24th, 25th and 26th days of the 2nd lunar month, Ba De Temple is bustling with festivals. On the 24th and 25th, there is a thanksgiving ceremony for the Lady, and the 26th is the opening day of spring and temple meal offering ceremony. This is the time when a large number of tourists flock to offer incense, creating a unique festival atmosphere.
After worshiping at Ba De Temple, visitors can conveniently visit Hang Pagoda - a pagoda located in a unique cave or enjoy fresh air at Do Son beaches.
