More than 300 large and small temples
Hue is the largest Buddhist center of the country with more than 300 large and small pagodas in the city. Not to mention the system of village pagodas in villages and communes in districts and towns.
The pagodas here are not only places of worship but also cultural and spiritual symbols closely associated with the lives of the people of the ancient capital.
Not only in the city but also in the countryside, the custom of going to the pagoda at the beginning of the year is also highly respected. People often go to the village pagoda to pray for peace, hoping for a healthy and peaceful new year.
This deeply reflects the cultural identity of Hue, where Buddhist beliefs blend with community life, becoming an indispensable part of daily life.
Famous ancient pagodas, visited by locals and tourists at the beginning of the year, include Thien Mu Pagoda on the Perfume River; Tu Hieu Pagoda; Huyen Khong Son Thuong and Huyen Khong Son Ha Pagodas...
In addition to these large pagodas, in the countryside, village pagodas are also familiar destinations for people. Although not as grand as large pagodas, village pagodas bring a sense of closeness and coziness, where people place their faith and wishes for a peaceful new year.
What makes the custom of going to pagodas at the beginning of the year in Hue special is the purpose of praying. People go to pagodas to pray for peace and health, instead of wishing for fame and fortune.
They believe that peace and health are the roots of all happiness, and when the family is harmonious and peaceful, wealth and luck will come naturally.
This custom not only shows spiritual beauty but also reflects the humanistic philosophy of life of the people of the ancient capital.
In modern society, when many traditional values are gradually fading away, the pure custom of praying for peace in Hue is a cultural heritage that needs to be preserved and promoted.
Precious spiritual heritage
When going to pagodas at the beginning of the year, Hue people often bring simple offerings to show their respect. The offerings usually include: a plate of fruit, fresh flowers; a bunch of incense and candles; a small envelope symbolizing money for donations.
They burn incense, recite simple prayers and listen to the temple bells to find serenity. Afterwards, people often walk around the temple grounds, enjoying the scenery and feeling the fresh air of the first days of the year.
The pagodas in Hue are not only places of worship but also architectural highlights, blending with the natural landscape. At the beginning of the new year, when the trees sprout, the pagodas seem to put on a fresh beauty while still maintaining their solemnity.
This is the ideal space for people to regain balance, starting a new year with an optimistic and gentle spirit.
The custom of going to pagodas at the beginning of the year in Hue is not only a spiritual ritual but also has profound cultural significance. When people only pray for peace and health, they put the peace and health of their family first, not being influenced by material considerations.
Going to pagodas at the beginning of the year, especially in rural areas, also helps connect the community as it is an opportunity for people to meet and share good wishes with each other. This is a way for the younger generation to understand and appreciate long-standing cultural values, thereby continuing the tradition.
The custom of going to pagodas at the beginning of the year in Hue is not only a cultural beauty but also a precious spiritual heritage. In the new era, preserving and promoting this beauty not only helps to preserve national identity but also conveys the message of peaceful and humane living to future generations.
