Tu Hieu Pagoda is located in Duong Xuan village, Thua Thien Hue, hidden deep in a large pine forest. According to historical records, this place was originally just a small hermitage established by the founder Nhat Dinh to take care of and raise his elderly mother here. His story reached the ears of King Tu Duc. The King was impressed by the Zen master's filial piety, and from then on, he bestowed upon the pagoda the plaque "Sac tu Tu Hieu Tu". From then on, the pagoda had that name until today.
The temple grounds are extremely large, every corner is beautiful and peaceful.
Shady paths lead around the temple.
The path to the fish pond, in the distance is the main gate.
Through many changes of the times, Tu Hieu remained leisurely and calm, contemplating life from the middle of the pine forest.
The architectural structure of the pagoda has similar lines and style to the structures at Tu Duc tomb.
Tu Hieu Pagoda is also where Zen Master Thich Nhat Hanh became a monk at the age of 16. In 2008, he returned here and spent the last years of his life at Tu Hieu Pagoda. In January 2022, he passed away on this land, in the loving arms of his disciples and Buddhists.
The stone door was covered with moss, a glimpse of the human world many times.
The resting place of those who contributed to the construction of Tu Hieu Pagoda
Entrance to the cemetery area of the Nguyen Dynasty eunuchs.
In addition, Tu Hieu Pagoda also has a very special area. That is a cemetery located behind the main courtyard of the pagoda. Few people know that this is the resting place of 24 eunuchs of the Nguyen Dynasty. The pagoda is what it is today thanks to the great contributions of these eunuchs. When they were alive, they worried about the day they died and were afraid that no one would burn incense for them. Therefore, they submitted a petition to the king asking for permission to contribute money to build the pagoda. The king not only agreed but also provided more money to fulfill their wish.
Peaceful moment by the fish pond in front of Tam Quan gate
