Hang Pagoda Festival

The festival takes place on the 15th of Lunar January each year at Pagoda Cave and Hang Pagoda in A Dong Hamlet, Yen Tri Commune, Yen Thuy District. This region is home to the isolated Lang Tieu Mountain, which features Van Quang Cave and two pagodas collectively known as Hang Pagoda (also referred to as Thanh Lam Pagoda).

Photo: phatgiao.gov.vn

From the mouth of Van Quang Cave, visitors can follow stone steps that lead to a beautifully tiled-roof wooden pagoda. The first pagoda, intricately carved in the style of the Nguyen Dynasty, is followed by another pagoda located about 20 steps away. This second pagoda is adorned with countless stalactites and stalagmites, showcasing a variety of shapes and sizes. In 1994, it was recognized by the Vietnamese Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism for its cultural and historical significance. Both pagodas serve a religious function, primarily dedicated to the worship of Buddha and the God of Land.

Due to the cave's three entrances, the ritual of worship requires nine trays of offerings, each containing a boiled chicken, a plate of sticky rice, and an assortment of fruits. Every year on the 15th of Lunar January, the festival attracts a large number of pilgrims from across the country, who come to seek blessings from Buddha and other deities for a prosperous and fortunate New Year. It is believed that offerings made on this day carry more significance than those made throughout the year, leading to a bustling atmosphere at the pagoda during the festival.

In addition to the rituals performed at the pagoda, a variety of recreational activities and artistic performances take place, catering to both locals and visitors. These activities showcase rich cultural characteristics and are presented in a vibrant manner. Attendees can enjoy a mix of traditional games, such as stilt walking and tug-of-war, as well as modern pastimes like soccer, volleyball, and musical performances.