In Hanoi, Bach Ma Temple is believed that this is the oldest temple of the city. To worship and show honor of Bach Ma, King Ly Thai To built this Buddhist temple in the 9th. Originally location of Bach Ma Temple was Long Do Mountain, according to a sign inside the temple. The temple was moved to its current location in the Old Quarter of Hanoi in the 18th century, during the Ly Dynasty, to guard the east side of Thang Long.
“Bach Ma” mean “White House” in ancient Vietnamese and this refers to a story behind the construction of the Temple. King Ly thai To had been struggling building Bach Ma Temple as its walls kept collapsing . It is said that a white horse delineated the best area to build the temple with its hooves to help the king in constructing the temple.
You enter the temple through some ancient wooden doors after which you will be able to see the beautiful decorated interior and a red-lacquered funeral palanquin. Inside the temple you will find a statue of the white horse, a shrine to Confucius and a Phoenix Altar for offerings to the four seasons. Bach Ma Temple is still actively used by worshipers who come there to burn incense and pray, it is a well maintained small temple that is easily reached and offers an opportunity to see locals practice their beliefs. Entrance is free of charge.
