A spiritual site at the heart of Bac Kan
Localisation & signification
The Chùa Phố Cũ temple is located in Ward 8, Chợ Rã town, Ba Bể district, Bắc Kạn province, Vietnam. It is situated near Ba Bể Lake, one of the most famous natural sites in the region. Due to its proximity to the lake and other attractions like Puông Cave and An Mạ Temple, Chùa Phố Cũ is an important spiritual destination that attracts both pilgrims and tourists interested in the local culture.
Histoiry & culture
Chua Pho Cu was built over 120 years ago, around 1906, during the reign of Emperor Thành Thái (18th year of reign). Closely tied to Buddhist tradition and the spiritual life of the region’s inhabitants, it hosts traditional festivals and cultural events while preserving important historical values for the people of Ba Bể.
Recently, a ceremony was held to cast a large bell (Đại hồng chung), enhancing the spiritual value of the place and attracting more visitors.
Tourism & experiences
Visitors to Ba Bể are advised to visit Chùa Phố Cũ along with exploring Ba Bể Lake and its surroundings. An exceptional opportunity to discover the local Buddhist architecture and culture in the temple.
Importance
Chùa Phố Cũ embodies a synthesis of nature and faith. Serving as a meditation center for practitioners and visitors, as well as an identity landmark for the people of Bắc Kạn, it also acts as a cultural hub with activities related to local history and legends, enhancing the tourist experience around Ba Bể Lake.
Integration into the provincial heritage
In addition to Chua Phu Cu, Chau Thach Long (located in Cho Moi) with its traditional architecture and Den Tham (Cho Don), known as a sanctuary dedicated to local deities, contribute to a network of characteristic religious sites in the region.
Though lesser-known to foreign visitors, the Chùa Phố Cũ temple in Ba Bể is a major historical and cultural site, as well as a must-visit spiritual destination, in harmony with the natural beauty and cultural richness of the Ba Bể Lake region.