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Hung Yen: Keo Pagoda Autumn Festival 2025 - “The Light of Than Quang”

Keo Pagoda, also known as Than Quang Tu, is one of Vietnam’s most significant religious and cultural landmarks. Recognized as a Special National Relic in 2012, its Autumn Festival was designated a National Intangible Cultural Heritage in 2017, and its ancient altar was listed as a National Treasure in 2021. These recognitions affirm the enduring cultural and spiritual value of the nearly 400-year-old pagoda, one of the most important festival sites in the Red River Delta.

A Timeless Heritage of the Ly Dynasty

Keo Pagoda was originally founded in 1061 by Zen Master Duong Khong Lo during the reign of King Ly Thanh Tong. The monk, later honored as a National Master, was renowned for curing the king’s illness and spreading Buddhist teachings. The temple, renamed Than Quang Tu in 1167, was rebuilt in 1632 after being destroyed by floods. It remains a masterpiece of 17th-century Le–Trinh architecture, consisting of 17 structures and 128 compartments built in the traditional “inner sanctuary, outer gate” layout.

“The Light of Than Quang” - A Cultural Highlight

This year’s Keo Pagoda Autumn Festival, held from October 30 to November 4, features a grand opening performance titled “The Light of Than Quang,” inspired by the spiritual wisdom of Zen Master Duong Khong Lo. The show combines traditional Vietnamese performing arts, including cheo opera, water puppetry, múa ếch vồ (frog dance), and bơi chải cạn (dry-boat rowing), presented by professional artists from the provincial Cheo Theatre.

According to Venerable Thich Thanh Quang, Abbot of Keo Pagoda, the performance symbolizes the spreading of compassion, wisdom, and peace, the essence of Buddhist and Vietnamese spiritual culture.

Preserving Traditions, Enriching Experiences

The festival preserves ancient rituals such as the Procession of Saint Duong Khong Lo, the Opening Ceremony, múa rối chầu Thánh (puppet performances in honor of the Saint), and the Lantern Night. Folk games and cultural contests, from chèo singing exchanges to betel-folding competitions, add to the festive atmosphere, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the traditional culture of the Red River Delta.

Local authorities have also prioritized safety, environmental sanitation, and hospitality to ensure a welcoming experience for visitors.

Each autumn, the Keo Pagoda Festival draws pilgrims and tourists from across the country, blending spirituality, artistry, and community pride. It continues to affirm its place as one of northern Vietnam’s most distinctive spiritual and cultural tourism destinations.