At the end of the 13th century, King Trần Nhân Tông (1258–1308) founded the Trúc Lâm Zen Sect – a Buddhist lineage bearing distinctly Vietnamese characteristics, originating from his practice and enlightenment on Mount Yên Tử.

Majestic mountains, serene scenery. During the dry season, Yên Tử reveals its grandeur with steep cliffs, endless green bamboo forests, and pure, refreshing air that makes each pilgrim’s step feel lighter. When mist covers the peaks, the mountains become ethereal and floating like a fairyland, where every wanderer feels their heart at peace, cleansed in the sacred stillness of nature.
A pilgrimage to Yên Tử is a return to the very origin of the Trúc Lâm Zen Sect – the place where the soul of Vietnamese Buddhism was formed and refined.
“Trăm năm tích đức tu hành
Chưa đi Yên Tử, chưa thành quả tu.”
Rough translation: (approximate translation capturing the meaning)
“Even after a hundred years of virtuous practice, if one has not made the pilgrimage to Yên Tử, the path of cultivation is still considered incomplete.”
(A folk verse passed down through generations, emphasizing the sacred stature of Yên Tử – regarded as the cradle of Vietnamese Buddhism, closely tied to the Trúc Lâm Zen Sect and the enlightenment journey of Buddha-King Trần Nhân Tông)
- Buddha-King Trần Nhân Tông - a Vietnamese king who attained enlightenment and founded the Trúc Lâm Zen Sect

“The Trúc Lâm Zen Sect not only inherited the essence of Buddhism but also harmonized it with Vietnamese culture and daily life, remaining deeply intertwined with the nation’s history. Under the enlightenment of Buddha-King Trần Nhân Tông and the succession of Zen masters Pháp Loa and Huyền Quang – known together as the Trúc Lâm Tam Tổ (the Three Patriarchs of Trúc Lâm) – this Zen lineage became a spiritual symbol, earning Yên Tử the reverent title of “the sacred land of Vietnamese Buddhism’.”
The Path to Đồng Pagoda – A Pilgrimage Amid Clouds and Mountains





Ancient Pine Forest: Along the Pine Path, centuries-old pine trees stand tall and solemn, their sturdy trunks gripping the earth and cliffs, their wide canopies spreading like giant parasols. The pines not only offer shade but also symbolize resilience, endurance, and a serene way of life. Each step on the path covered with dry pine leaves feels in harmony with the slow, sacred rhythm of the mountain and forest.

Verdant Bamboo Forest: Running parallel to it is the Bamboo Path, where dense clusters of evergreen bamboo symbolize vitality, purity, and grace. The bamboo forest is not only a natural landscape but also reflects the Trúc Lâm spirit – the Zen school founded by the Buddha-King Trần Nhân Tông – emphasizing living in the world with a tranquil heart. Gentle breezes rustling through the bamboo leaves create a soothing melody, like a meditative rhythm guiding each pilgrim’s step.

The Zen-like atmosphere here is not reserved only for Buddhist followers; anyone can find inner calm amid the grandeur of nature, listening to the wind and their own heartbeat merge with the pulse of the mountains. A quiet moment of pause, looking down at white clouds drifting past treetops and temple roofs, is enough to feel the peace that Yên Tử has preserved for over seven centuries.
Yên Tử is not only a natural wonder but also the spiritual heart of the Trúc Lâm Zen sect for many centuries. It embodies the spirit of “living in the world with joy and enlightenment” — being at peace amid life, mountains, and clouds.
Đồng Pagoda – The Sacred Peak of Yên Tử
Perched at an altitude of 1,068 meters above sea level, Đồng Pagoda – also known as Thiên Trúc Tự – stands as the most sacred destination on the Yên Tử pilgrimage route.
From afar, the small bronze pagoda glimmers amidst a sea of clouds, like a spiritual jewel embedded between heaven and earth, where the human realm meets the divine.

It is not only the largest bronze pagoda in Asia but also a symbol of faith and the Vietnamese people's aspiration toward enlightenment.
The current pagoda was recast and restored in 2006 under the guidance of Venerable Thích Thanh Quyết and the Đồng Pagoda Project Management Board, with contributions from monks, nuns, and Buddhist followers both in Vietnam and abroad.
The entire structure was cast from pure bronze in Ý Yên (Nam Dinh), modeled after Dâu Keo Pagoda (Bac Ninh) – reflecting the graceful architectural style of the Trần dynasty.
Though modest in size at only 20 square meters, the pagoda weighs up to 70 tons. Its roof curves upward at the four corners in the shape of dragon heads; the walls are finely carved with leaf motifs, and the porch features bronze railings shaped like bamboo stalks.

Inside, statues of Sakyamuni Buddha and the Three Patriarchs of the Trúc Lâm Zen Sect sit solemnly upon lotus thrones, creating a serene yet intimate atmosphere. A bronze bell and gong hang at the entrance – when the mountain wind blows through, their resonant chime drifts across the clouds like the voice of meditation itself.
When visiting, it is advised to dress respectfully and bring simple vegetarian offerings such as incense, fresh flowers, or fruits. Maintain a reverent attitude, avoid crowding or performing rituals carelessly, and refrain from filming or using your phone within this sacred space.
The Spirit of Zen on Yên Tử Mountain
Each year, from the first to the third lunar month, the Yên Tử Festival draws tens of thousands of Buddhist devotees and visitors from all over the country on their pilgrimage. The festival begins at the foot of the mountain with an incense-offering ceremony at Giải Oan Pagoda, then follows the sacred route up through temples and hermitages, ending at Đồng Pagoda — the most revered site of Yên Tử. Throughout the journey, pilgrims not only marvel at the majestic scenery of bamboo forests, waterfalls, and cloud-covered peaks, but also immerse themselves in the rhythmic sound of bells, wooden gongs, and the solemn atmosphere of the pilgrimage processions. Traditional folk games, cultural performances, and vegetarian cuisine are also part of the celebration, creating a vivid picture of spiritual life deeply intertwined with Vietnamese culture.

Travel Tips for Visitors
- Best time to visit: Yên Tử is beautiful all year round, but spring (from the first to the third lunar month) is when the Yên Tử Festival takes place — the bamboo forests still glisten with morning dew, and the sound of temple bells echoes through the clouds. If you prefer a quieter atmosphere, come in autumn, when the skies are clear, the mist is light, and the mountain scenery reveals its calm, vivid charm.
- Before you go: The path up Yên Tử consists of thousands of stone steps, so a pair of soft sneakers, light clothing, and a thin jacket will make your journey more comfortable. Bring water, light snacks, and some personal medicine — especially if you choose to hike instead of taking the cable car.
- Experiences not to miss: Don’t rush. Pause at Giải Oan Stream to listen to the gentle murmur of water among the trees, visit Hoa Yên Pagoda to admire the vast bamboo forest, and continue your climb to Đồng Pagoda — where clouds drift all year round. A quiet moment of meditation amid the echoing temple bells may be all you need to find inner peace.
Conclusion
Yên Tử is not just a journey through landscapes but a spiritual pilgrimage, where every step up the mountain is a step inward.
Amid layers of mist and mountain clouds, everyone can find a moment of stillness — a silent touch of the Trúc Lâm spirit that has echoed for over seven centuries.
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