Ba De Temple, Do Son
The Sacred Temple Over Hundreds of Years Old
Ba De Temple is one of the famous spiritual destinations in Do Son, Hai Phong. With its long history, picturesque natural scenery, and mysterious stories, Ba De Temple is not only a place of worship but also attracts thousands of tourists every year. Let's explore the beauty and mystical stories of Ba De Temple with Doson Resort & Casino.
Location and How to Get to Ba De Temple
Ba De Temple is located at the foot of Doc Mountain, in Ngoc Hai Ward, Do Son District. The temple is nestled against the mountain, facing the vast sea, creating a unique natural landscape.
Visitors can easily get there by motorbike, car, or taxi. From the city center, follow Pham Van Dong Road. When you reach the People's Committee of Hải Sơn Ward, continue straight for about 300 meters. At the intersection with the dual carriageway, turn left to reach Do Son Border Guard Station. From here, continue straight for a short distance to reach Ba De Temple.
The Legend of Ba De Temple
According to folklore, in 1718, in the southeast of the Ngọc Do Son area, there was a couple named Đào. They had a daughter named Đào Thị Hương. From the day she was born, she emitted a special fragrant scent.
One day, Lord Trịnh Giang traveled through Do Son and visited this area. He was moved by Đào Thị Hương's melodious singing and her stunning beauty. The Lord fell in love with her and became deeply attached.
Some time later, she became pregnant. This news reached Hàng Tổng, who ordered her parents to pay a fine. However, because they were poor and could not afford the fine, Hàng Tổng decided to drown her in the sea.
Local people say that after she passed away, her mournful cries could still be heard in the sea breeze. She left behind a lament: "When the rope rots and the millstone breaks, only then will this grudge be resolved."
Later, Lord Trịnh set up a ritual to clear her grievance and had a temple built in her honor. The temple became a place of reverence for the villagers as it protected them from pirates and evil-doers.
King Tự Đức later visited the temple and granted the title "Đông Nhạc Đế Bà – Trịnh Lord's Consort." Additionally, the king allocated funds to rebuild the temple roof for the convenience of the villagers’ worship.
For more information: Ba De Temple: From Past to Present
Kiến trúc độc đáo và không gian thanh tịnh của đền bà đế
Ba De Temple has a simple yet elegant architecture, nestled against the mountain, facing the vast sea. The scenery here blends the mountains and the sea, creating a picturesque natural beauty.
The main hall of the temple is where Ba De and her parents are worshipped. To the left of the main hall is the altar of the Sea King, and nearby are the altars of the Earth King, the Mountain King, and all living beings. To the right of the main hall is the altar of the Three Holy Mothers, the three goddesses who govern the land, sky, rivers, and mountains.
Opposite the Three Holy Mothers altar is the altar of Buddha and the famous general from the Tran dynasty – Tran Quoc Tuan. In front of the temple yard is the image of a boat, with a statue of Bodhisattva and intricate carvings of majestic dragons around it.
In the past, the temple had a small, cramped space and had deteriorated over time. In 1988, Mrs. Lưu Quế Hoa from Ngọc Hải Ward, along with her descendants, rebuilt the temple to make it more spacious. Since the renovation, Ba De Temple has become a popular destination for many tourists to visit and worship.
Spiritual Activities and Festivals at Ba De Temple
The Ba De Temple Festival is held annually on the 24th to 26th of the 2nd lunar month. The 24th and 25th are dedicated to thanking the Holy Lady, and on the 26th, the festival celebrates the Lunar New Year and offerings are made at the temple.
Every year, the festival attracts a large number of local people and tourists who come to worship, seek good fortune, and enjoy the scenic beauty. The Ba De Temple Festival is rich in traditional cultural beauty, creating a sacred and peaceful atmosphere.
Unlike many crowded festivals, Ba De Temple maintains its solemnity, without any fortune-telling or divination. The ceremonies here are always orderly, without causing traffic congestion, and are conducted with great reverence and sanctity.
Ba De Temple is not only a remarkable spiritual structure but also an unmissable stop when visiting Do Son, Hai Phong. Plan a visit to Ba De Temple to experience the beauty of its culture, history, and nature!
