Despite the cold rain, people visited pagodas to worship Buddha from early new year's morning

The sacred temple on the first day of the Lunar New Year of the Snake

On the morning of the first day of the Lunar New Year, many people made their way to ancient pagodas to pay homage to Buddha. Regardless of the biting cold and heavy rain outside, the belief that "one must visit the pagoda first on the first day of the year" remained deeply ingrained in the cultural consciousness of the people of the ancient imperial capital. 

From early morning, well-known ancient pagodas such as Tu Hieu, Tu Dam, Thien Ton, and Ba Don began welcoming visitors. Amidst the peaceful echoes of temple bells, people strolled leisurely into the main hall to offer incense, bow in reverence, and prayed for a year of peace and good fortune for themselves and their families. 

As the morning progressed, the crowds at the pagodas grew larger. In response, temple staff and volunteers helped guide worshippers in lighting incense and maintaining order. Some pagodas also set up large dry branches where visitors can write their wishes for the new year and hang them as offerings. 

"Since childhood, my grandparents and parents have taken me to the pagoda on the first morning of the new year, and now this habit has become a cherished cultural tradition for me. Beyond worshipping Buddha and praying for peace for my family, starting the year with a temple visit brings me a sense of calm. It reminds me to improve myself, to love and share more in life. After the ceremony, I take time to wander through the temple grounds, listen to the bells, and appreciate the beauty of spring." Nguyen Tu Vinh, a Hue resident, shared. 

Many families in Hue still make their way to the pagoda on New Year's morning despite the cold rain

Visitors offer incense and prayers at the ancient Tu Hieu Pagoda on Duong Xuan Hill

Not only the elderly but also many young people arrive early to pray for blessings

The cold, rainy weather on the first morning of the new year affects some people's holiday outings

After worshipping, many take a stroll around the temple grounds and capture the moment with commemorative photos