The name of the pagoda derives from a special legend. A long time ago, an old woman appeared on the hill where the pagoda stands today, telling the local people that a Lord would come and build a Buddhist pagoda for the country’s prosperity. One day, when Lord Nguyen Hoang passed by this area, upon hearing the story, he ordered the construction of the pagoda named Heaven Fairy Lady Pagoda.
It was built in 1601, and then Lord Nguyen Phuc Tan had it renovated in 1665. In 1710 Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu had a great bell cast (2.5 m high, weighed 3,285 kg) and a stele (2.58 m high) erected on the back of a marble tortoise in 1715. In the Nguyen Dynasty, Kings such as Gia Long, Minh Mang, Thieu Tri, Thanh Thai all had the pagoda restored.
Coming to Thien Mu Pagoda, you will have a chance to enjoy both the scenic landscape and the typical traditional architecture of Hue pagodas. Thanks to its high position upward a charming curve of Perfume River, the pagoda offers a mind-boggling view of both the flow and the surrounding areas. Covered with pine trees, bonsai, and delicate manmade pond, this religious site brings about a peaceful feeling which is hard to find anywhere else. At the end of the garden is the Tower of the Superior Buddhist monk Thich Don Hau, a famous head of Thien Mu Pagoda who devoted his whole life to the promotion of Buddhism and the good of society.
Thien Mu Pagoda has become one of the most popular tourist attractions in Hue City. It is suggested that tourists should come here in the early morning to see the fresh beginning of the daily activities or visit the pagoda in the afternoon to enjoy the beautiful sunset on the Perfume River.
The pagoda is about 5km far from Hue city so you can get there by motorbike, bicycle or boat. Remember to dress respectfully when visiting the pagoda, avoid wearing short skirts or tank-top since the entrance to the main hall Dai Hung is not allowed for those wearing these costumes.
