When people think of Hue, many envision a serene land “steeped” in Buddhism with hundreds of temples and pagodas. Amid the bustling rhythm of a modern Hue, life behind each pagoda gate is far from dull, but it is a refined embodiment of spiritual beauty that deeply enriches the inner world of many residents of the Ancient Capital. Here, every scene, every space, every presence expressed a quiet, profound stillness, like a sutra in motion.

In 2012, I first visited Chi Linh - Hai Duong and toured Con Son pagoda. Having had the opportunity to visit and worship at many pagodas across Vietnam, Con Son pagoda left a deep impression on me from the very first glance, due to its scenery, its ancient charm, and an unexplainable sense of sacred understanding. Returning in 2025, that feeling remains as intact as the first time. I respectfully share with readers some photos of this ancient pagoda, which is over 700 years old. And if you have the chance, let you visit once to admire and contemplate.

Despite the cold and rainy weather, many people in Hue continued the tradition of visiting pagodas on the first day of the Lunar New Year to worship Buddha and pray for a peaceful and prosperous year.

Thuy Xuan hill area, Hue city is famous for ancient pagodas such as Tu Hieu, Dong Thuyen, Bao Lam, Chau Lam, Dieu Nghiem, etc. Being lost in the clouds and wind with many rows of pine trees rustling on these hillsides in the early morning or at dusk, and listening to the sound of temple bells ringing in the wind and the steady sound of wooden bell echoing from the pagodas make my heart strangely calm and peaceful.

From purchased pieces of broken ceramic bowls, the talented hands of Hue ceramic mosaic artisans have revived the majestic appearance of flying dragons and dancing phoenixes on Hue Ancient Capital's monuments, pagodas, temples...

The expansion of lotus area also means that the area of polluted water surface is gradually narrowed. The lotus does not only grow at heritage sites but also exists in landscape lakes of temples, pagodas, shrines, showing off its fragrance in the remote countryside...

These days, pagodas in Hue are busy decorating and preparing for celebrating Vesak 2567, while some households engaged in making lanterns on Chi Lang Street are racing against time for delivery.

Like many other temples across the country, over time, some pagodas in Hue regularly organize retreats and meditation sessions to bring moments of peace and guide young people in finding themselves.

On the morning of the first day of the Lunar New Year of the Cat 2023, the sunny and cool weather was very convenient for locals and visitors to go to pagodas to worship Buddha and pray for peace, good luck, and happiness for the New Year.