1. General Introduction to Den Nghe Hai Phong
1.1. Geographical Location
Located in the city center, Den Nghe Hai Phong possesses a unique beauty, attracting attention and leaving a deep impression on anyone who visits. This place is a memorial site for the female general Le Chan, who is associated with the history of founding and protecting Hai Phong.
The distance from the center of Hai Phong, such as the Opera House or Tam Bac Lake, to Den Nghe is only about 2 km, making it very convenient for travel. Visitors can take a taxi, bus, or motorbike to reach the temple.
1.2. History of Formation and Significance of Den Nghe Hai Phong
The formation journey of Den Nghe Hai Phong is associated with the female general Le Chan, a typical hero of the Trung Sisters' Uprising during the period 40-43 AD. She was born in An Bien village, devoted her efforts to building and forming this land, and initiated the development of Hai Phong today.
Altar of female general Le Chan. (Source: Collected)
According to legend, after she committed suicide, her body turned into stone and drifted to the Tam Bac River – Cam River area. The villagers respectfully carried that stone to establish a temple for worship, initially a small temple named An Bien ancient temple. Through many dynasties, the temple was gradually built sturdily and repaired many times to preserve its inherent sacredness.
Den Nghe holds great significance for the people of Hai Phong, serving as a place to commemorate the merits of female general Le Chan in pioneering and protecting the port land. The temple is also a steadfast symbol of the will and pride of generations here. Since 1975, the state has recognized Den Nghe as a national historical and cultural relic and assigned the Hai Phong Museum to be responsible for its preservation and conservation.
2. Unique architecture of Den Nghe Hai Phong
2.1. Architectural overview
Den Nghe is designed according to the traditional "Nhi" (二) character style, forming a harmonious complex including items such as the tam quan, thieu huong, toa bai duong, giai vu, hau cung, nha bia, along with stone elephant and stone horse statues. The arrangement of items along the central axis helps the entire temple space exude solemnity and tranquility.
A prominent highlight is the spacious 5-bay worship hall, built from 16 lim wood pillars placed on large stones with elaborate carvings. The higher inner sanctuary has 3 bays, built with a two-story structure, both imposing and creating a cool feeling. Old lim wood combined with natural stone blocks used in construction demonstrate durability and traditional techniques.
Important renovation periods, such as the periods 1924-1927 and 2007-2009, have helped Den Nghe not only retain its ancient architectural features but also add items serving community activities, meeting modern needs while preserving ancient values.
The main sanctuary at Nghe Temple, Hai Phong. (Source: Collected)
2.2. Sculptural details, sacred animals, and ancient worship items
The main gate of Nghe Temple, Hai Phong is distinguished by its ancient tiled roof, decorated with bas-relief carvings of dragons, phoenixes, and dragon-horses, symbols of majesty, prosperity, and good fortune. Every chisel stroke, every decorative motif was created by the skillful hands of ancient artisans, contributing to its artistic value.
Stone elephant and horse statues placed at the tam quan (three-gate entrance) and the main courtyard act as guardians, embodying strength and loyalty. The roof edges (đầu đao) and the solid wood pillars are all carved with the Four Sacred Creatures: dragon, kylin, turtle, and phoenix, signifying protection and the enduring existence of the relic.
In the worship hall and inner sanctuary, visitors will find large stone chimes, ancient stone beds, bronze bells, and lim wood furniture carved with floral motifs like pine, chrysanthemum, and apricot, along with themes of the Trung Sisters, mountains, and rivers... These artifacts demonstrate a harmonious blend of courtly and folk art, creating the unique character of Nghe Temple .
The mascots all face the center in a dynamic pose. (Source: Collected)
2.3. Artifacts, worship items, and conservation value
Nghe Temple preserves many precious ancient artifacts such as bronze bells, weapons, statue of female general Le Chan, stone chime set, stone bed, stone stele recording the legend. Notably, the "Golden Regalia of Nghe Temple" was honored as a National Treasure in 2026, further affirming the stature and value of the heritage.
The conservation value of Nghe Temple of Hai Phong lies not only in its precious artifacts but also in its vibrant heritage space, harmoniously connecting history, art, and the spirit of the people of Hai Phong. The temple is always strictly managed, regularly restored, and preserved in its original state for future generations to continue exploring and cherishing.
Intricately carved Bat Cong palanquin. (Source: Collection)
3. Cultural values and traditional festivals at Nghe Temple Hai Phong
3.1. Major festivals at Nghe Temple Hai Phong in 2026
The traditional festival of female general Le Chan on March 6-8, 2026 (corresponding to the 7th-9th day of the 2nd lunar month of the Year of the Dragon) is a key event at Nghe Temple during the year. The ceremony includes rituals such as offering prayers, incense burning, and parading the statue of the female general, all organized solemnly and adhering to ancient customs.
Besides the ceremony, the vibrant festival features unique folk art performances, the Water Lily beauty contest, and traditional games like wrestling, tug-of-war, and boat racing, creating a festive atmosphere that unites communities of all ages.
The Nghe Temple Hai Phong festival welcomes a large number of visitors from home and abroad to attend the ceremony, pay homage, participate in artistic activities, immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere, and awaken national pride. Besides the major festival in March, there are also commemoration days throughout the year such as the 8th day of the 2nd lunar month, the 25th day of the 12th lunar month, August 18th, and August 15th, with rituals praying for good harvests and peace for the villagers and the community.
A large bronze incense burner is placed in the middle of the courtyard. (Source: Collected)
3.2. Nghè Temple in the spiritual life of Hai Phong people
For the Hai Phong community, Nghè Temple is a sacred place to entrust wishes for peace, blessings, and prosperity during the beginning of the year, holidays, or special family occasions. Many people believe that sincerely offering incense here will bring luck, success, and peace to family and loved ones.
Festival commemorating the female general Le Chan. (Source: Collected )
The connection of the people with Nghe Temple, Hai Phong is evidenced through countless folk tales, from the legend of the female general helping King Tran Nhan Tong win the battle, stories of prophetic dreams, to legends of the temple's sacredness throughout the ages.
The unique features of the festival, the sacred space, and enduring community values have created the eternal vitality for Nghe Temple . This place is a cultural and spiritual anchor for the people of Hai Phong and visitors from all directions on all occasions of pilgrimage and worship.
Besides visiting Nghe Temple, Hai Phong , where the female general Le Chan is worshipped and many historical values are preserved, visitors can also visit Thirteen-Root Banyan Tree, Do Son Tourist Area, or experience the Sun World Cat Ba cable car route to admire the panoramic view of the beautiful Lan Ha Bay from above. To have a complete journey, combine sightseeing, enjoy local cuisine, and enjoy the characteristic fresh sea air of the city of red phoenix flowers.
Nghe Temple, Hai Phong harmonizes historical elements, art, and national spirit, reflecting the outstanding cultural depth of the Port City. Upon arriving at this place, visitors can both worship in the solemn space and immerse themselves in the flow of history mixed with modernity. Don't forget to plan a visit to Hai Phong in 2026 and share your experiences to spread the heritage values of your homeland!
