Temple of Literature,Vietnam

• The Five Courtyards (the sequence of halls and garden courtyards leading to the main sanctuaries)
• The Khue Van Cac pavilion (the ‘Constellation of Literature’), a symbol of Hanoi
• The 82 stone stelae on turtle-shaped pedestals bearing names of imperial exam laureates
• The main altar dedicated to Confucius and plaques honoring famed scholars
• Gardens, lotus ponds and traditional Vietnamese architecture and gates

• 82 engraved stone stelae (1442–1779) mounted on turtle bases—unique record of Vietnamese scholars
• Classical Confucian layout with successive courtyards and ceremonial halls
• Photography-friendly landscapes of ponds, banyan trees and red lacquered gates
• Calligraphy demonstrations and on-site cultural exhibitions

• Guided or self-guided tours of the compound and museum displays
• Reading the stone stelae inscriptions and learning about Vietnam’s examination system
• Watching or joining calligraphy and traditional arts demonstrations
• Photography in historic courtyards and around Khue Van Cac
• Quiet reflection at the Confucian altar; students often write wishes or buy talismans

October to April — cooler, drier months that are more comfortable for walking and photography. Early morning and late afternoon visits avoid heat and crowds.

Hanoi has a humid subtropical climate: hot, humid summers (May–September) with heavy rains and cooler, dry winters (November–March). Expect sudden showers in the wet season.

There is a modest entrance fee which changes occasionally; public opening hours are typically around 08:00–17:00. Check the official site or local sources for current ticket prices and any special-event closures.

Located in central Hanoi (Ba Ðình/Hoàn Kiếm area), about 1–2 km from the Old Quarter and popular landmarks. Reachable by taxi, ride-hailing apps, many city buses and walking from nearby central areas. Noi Bai International Airport is about 25–30 km away; allow 30–60 minutes by road depending on traffic. The complex is mostly flat with paved paths but some steps and thresholds—wheelchair access may be limited in historic sections.

1–2 hours for a relaxed visit; extend to half a day if combining with nearby sites or a museum visit.

Dress respectfully (no beachwear); comfortable walking shoes, a light rain jacket or umbrella in wet months, and sun protection in summer. Bring a camera; keep voice levels low in sacred areas.

Try nearby Hanoi specialties such as pho, bun cha, egg coffee and street-side snacks in the Old Quarter. Souvenirs include calligraphy portraits, silk goods, bamboo fans, small reproductions of the turtle stelae and hand-painted postcards.