Situated in Huong Son Site, Hanoi, Huong Pagoda complex is considered as one among centers of Buddhism in Vietnam. The pagoda complex consists of several Buddhist pagodas and temples on Huong Tich lime-stone Mountain. Located at the center of the complex is Huong Pagoda (so-called Trong Pagoda), which was built inside Huong Tich Cave – the most beautiful grotto of the South.
Huong Pagoda Festival is a Buddhist festival held annually and lasts three months, from the 6th day of Lunar New Year to the 6th day of the third lunar month in the year. But, the official days of the festival is only from 15th to 20th day of the second lunar month.
Huong Pagoda Festival is very different from other traditional festivals in Vietnam that recreational activities aren’t central part of the festival. Each year, thousands visitors from all regions in the country and foreign tourists as well go to Huong Pagoda at the time of festival. However, their aim is to visit scenic setting of Huong Pagoda (so-called Huong Son Pagoda) and pray for themselves and their family. On the way to Huong Pagoda, visitors will experience a local sampan boat ride on charming Yen Stream (Swallow Stream) from Duc Pier. Along the stream, one side is a magnificent lime-stone mountain and one side is a vast of green rice paddy. Those all contribute to wonderful picture of nature in spring. Visiting Huong Pagoda, everyone brings a lavish tray of sacrifice to offer Buddha, who is worshipped at Huong Tich Pagoda. After an incense-offering liturgy, each will eat a piece of their sacrifice in order to receive luck from Buddha.
Visiting Huong Pagoda Festival and visiting pagodas in general have become a beautiful custom of Vietnamese people in the beginning of Lunar New Year.
