The Temple of Literature in Hanoi – Vietnam is one of the most historic sites in the country. It also very accessible to the public, in case people would want to pay a visit. Once you reach Hanoi, Vietnam, you can hail a taxi cab and then ask to be taken to Van Mieu.
The cab will then drop you off at the very entrance. That’s how convenient it is to reach. On the other hand, if you want to stretch your legs a bit, the temple is a short walk from Ba Dinh Square. That’s where the mausoleum of Ho Chi Minh is located, another well-known landmark in the area.
Things to See in the Temple of Literature in Hanoi – Vietnam
The temple itself is divided into five courtyards laid out in a sequence. The said courtyards are situated from north to south. Three walkways or pathways span the said courtyards throughout the whole length of the entire grounds. There are also some gates that are laid out along these paths.
Entering the Temple of Literature in Hanoi – Vietnam, visitors will pass through eight stelae which would lead them into what is known as the Great Portico. Guests will then 
History
The temple itself and its grounds are home to two institutions in the country. The first one is the mandarin university, which is also known as Quoc Tu Giam, and the other one is the Confucius shrine, also known as Van Mieu. The university was established in 1076 while the shrine was established in 1070.
The temple was built under the commission of Emperor Ly Thanh Tong. Obviously, the place was dedicated and established in reverence for Confucius, the well-known Chinese philosopher. The university, which was built a few years later, was intended to teach children who belong to the aristocracy of the country. Stele was erected in one of the courtyards in 1484 that was meant to record the achievements of those who received doctorates from the said university. The place’s university functions were then transferred to Hue in 1802.
Travel Costs
The Temple of Literature in Hanoi – Vietnam is open to visitors from Tuesdays to Sundays from 8:30 am to noon and from 1:30 to 4:30 pm. Visitors will have to pay a small fee, 5,000 Dong or about 0.25 USD. Visitors may also purchase the brochure they have on sale, which is relatively cheaper.
