1. Overview of Trang Quynh Temple
1.1 General Introduction to Trang Quynh Temple
Located in Bot Thuong village, Hoang Loc commune, Thanh Hoa province, Trang Quynh Temple is a cultural - spiritual destination associated with the name of scholar Nguyen Quynh (1677-1748).
Trang Quynh Temple is a place associated with the famous top scholar. (Source: Collected)
He was one of the outstanding intellectuals of Thanh province, respected by people not only for his quick wit and extraordinary intelligence but also for his benevolent heart, always siding with the common people. For generations, the image of Trang Quynh has permeated folk culture through witty, sharp anecdotes imbued with the spirit of resistance and Vietnamese intellect.
1.2 Historical Figure
Nguyen Quynh (1677-1748), courtesy name Vi Hien Cong, was born into a Confucian scholar family in Bot Thuong village, Hoang Loc commune. This is a region renowned as the "land of learning" of Thanh province with the famous saying: "Those who like fish should go to Quang Xuong, those who like literature should go to Hoang Hoa". From a young age, he stood out for his intelligence, love of poetry, and passed the district examination at the age of 14.
Trang Quynh Temple is located in Hau Loc commune. (Source: Collected)
In the Year of Binh Ty (1696), Nguyen Quynh ranked first in the Huong Cong exam at the age of 19, hence he was called Cong Quynh. Although his path in civil service and officialdom was not smooth, he remained famous for his sharp intellect, quick wit, and integrity. In folklore, the image of Trang Quynh is depicted through humorous, biting anecdotes, reflecting his intelligence and courage to speak the truth. His legacy is not extensive, but the two phú (odes) “Kim Bach Tai Vat Phu” and “Tan Cung Phu Nu” are considered masterpieces in Lich Trieu Danh Phu, affirming the master literary talent of this famous scholar from Thanh Hoa province.
2. How to get there and experience the journey
The journey to Trang Quynh Temple is quite convenient and easy nowadays. Visitors travel along National Highway 1A for about 8 km to the Northeast to reach the former But Son town, then turn into the inter-commune road to Hoang Loc commune. This route is both convenient and offers an interesting experience as you can admire the peaceful countryside scenery stretching along both sides of the road.
Transportation to the relic site is quite diverse, depending on the needs and preferences of each group of visitors. Those who prefer flexibility can choose a motorbike to stop freely for photos and sightseeing along the way. If traveling with family including young children or the elderly, a personal car offers more comfort and convenience. Additionally, the bus is also a reasonable option.
One of the attractions of this route is the ability to combine visits to many different landmarks. Trang Quynh Temple is located only about 15-20 km from Hai Tien or Sam Son beach, making it very convenient for visitors to combine a pilgrimage trip to the relic with a relaxing stay at the beach.
3. Ideal time to visit
Trang Quynh Temple is a destination that can be visited year-round, with each season offering its own beauty and emotions. In spring, the air is usually cool and fresh, with the spirit of spring spreading throughout the Hoang Loc countryside. All this creates a peaceful scene, suitable for early year spring trips. In summer and autumn, gentle yellow sunlight covers the ancient tiled roofs, and the paths are shaded by trees. This is an ideal time for those who want to find a quiet space, immerse themselves in history and culture.
Memorial house within the grounds of Trang Quynh's temple. (Source: Collected)
Throughout the year, two special occasions attract a large number of visitors: the 1st day of the 10th lunar month, commemorating the birth anniversary of the scholar Nguyen Quynh, and the 28th day of the 1st lunar month, the scholar Trang's death anniversary. This is when visitors can immerse themselves in the solemn yet cozy atmosphere of the incense offering ceremony, joining local people to remember the talented figure. Regardless of when you visit, Trang Quynh's temple still offers a sense of peace and reverence – a place to worship, learn, and feel the studious spirit and intellect of Thanh Hoa.
4. Outstanding experiences at Trang Quynh's temple
4.1 Architecture and historical relics
The cultural celebrity Nguyen Quynh relic site is a destination that fully preserves the traditional space of the Thanh Hoa countryside. In front of the relic site is a large lake, with purple water lilies blooming, creating a peaceful and harmonious scene. The temple gate is built majestically, leading to three rows of houses arranged in a U-shape, a characteristic architectural style of ancient Vietnamese temples.
Worship space inside the Trang Quynh temple. (Source: Collected)
In the center is the temple of Trang Quynh, where the statue of the celebrity is placed and documents, genealogies of the Nguyen family are displayed, along with records of the merits of descendants. To the right is a row of houses for descendants of the family to look after and live in. On the left is the memorial house "Man - Event - Work", sponsored by Mr. and Mrs. Louis Sizaret, Luxembourgish cultural activists. This place preserves many valuable images and documents about the life, talent, and influence of Nguyen Quynh domestically and internationally. Notably, the memorial house also displays two volumes of the book "Truyen Trang Quynh" in Vietnamese-French and Vietnamese-English bilingual editions. Each volume weighs over 5kg, meticulously compiled to preserve and spread Vietnamese cultural values to the world.
4.2 Historical and Cultural Values
The relic site is not only a place to commemorate the celebrity Nguyen Quynh but also a symbol of the tradition of studiousness and the spirit of respecting ethics of the people of Hoang Hoa. From the small ancestral temple, the relic site has been restored and expanded magnificently on the old foundation, and was recognized as a national historical and cultural relic in 1992. Since then, this place has always been preserved, restored, and its values promoted by the Nguyen family and the local authorities.
The church was recognized as a national historical and cultural relic in 1992. (Source: Collected)
On holidays, Tet, or important exam occasions, many students, parents, and visitors from all over come to offer incense to pray for academic success and good luck. Generations of descendants of the Nguyen family also frequently gather here to recall traditions and honor outstanding examples in learning and ethics. As a result, the relic site has increasingly become a famous cultural and spiritual destination of Thanh Hoa, attracting tens of thousands of visitors each year. Tourists visiting Hai Tien beach or nearby tourist spots often combine their trip with a stop here to learn more about the character and talent of the distinguished scholar, the pride of the scholarly land of Hoang Hoa.
5. Experience and Notes
To make the visit to Trang Quynh's church more complete and meaningful, visitors should note:
Maintain polite and modest attire, showing respect for the sacred space. Prioritize long-sleeved shirts, long pants, or long skirts, avoiding short, tight, or overly colorful outfits.
Maintain a gentle and serious attitude throughout the visit. Speak softly, limit phone use or using external speakers, to avoid disturbing others and the relic site.
Comply with regulations when taking photos or videos, only doing so in permitted areas. Do not use flash or move objects in the worship area without permission to ensure the sanctity of the place.
Prepare simple offerings with sincere meaning, such as fresh flowers, betel leaves and areca nuts, fruits, or school supplies like pens and notebooks to pray for luck and academic success.
Arrange your time reasonably, it is advisable to visit in the cool morning or afternoon to facilitate travel and fully experience the peaceful and sacred atmosphere of Trang Quynh's church.
6. Combining Tourist Destinations in Thanh Hoa
6.1 Hai Tien Beach
After visiting Trang Quynh's church, visitors can continue their journey eastward to Hai Tien beach, one of the most pristine and charming beaches in Thanh Hoa. Hai Tien beach is notable for its nearly 12 km long stretch of fine sand, lush green casuarina forests, and clear blue waters year-round.
Hai Tien Beach is a prominent destination near Thanh Hoa city center. (Source: Collected)
This is an ideal place for swimming, watching the sunrise, or participating in activities such as rowing, cycling along the coast, and night squid fishing with fishermen. Along the coast is a system of hotels, resorts, and restaurants serving fresh seafood. All offer a gentle, nature-friendly resort space. Especially, only about 20 km from Thanh Hoa city center, Hai Tien is very convenient for day trips combining sightseeing, experiences, and relaxation.
6.2 Ham Rong Historical Site
If you love history and wish to explore the heroic imprints of the nation, Ham Rong historical site is a must-visit destination. Located beside the Ma River, about 3 km from Thanh Hoa city center, Ham Rong is a symbol of victory in the resistance war against the US, where glorious air battles in the 1960s were recorded.
Visitors can admire the historic Ham Rong Bridge, visit the Ham Rong Museum, Ngoc Mountain relic, and enjoy the majestic scenery of Thanh Hoa's rivers and mountains. This is also a beautiful sunset spot, where nature blends with sacred historical memories.
6.3 Sam Son Beach and Sam Son Sea Square
Visitors can also spend time relaxing at Sam Son Beach. With its long beach, moderate waves, and fresh air, Sam Son is an ideal place to relax, swim, and enjoy fresh seafood. Additionally, Sam Son Sea Square, the new symbol of the coastal city, is also an unmissable attractive check-in spot. With an area of over 15 hectares, a musical fountain system, and a walking street, this is where tourism events are held year-round. This area helps bring a modern, youthful look to Thanh Hoa's coastal city.
Sam Son beach square with modern space and architecture. (Source: Collected)
Combining a visit to Trang Quynh's church, exploring Ham Rong history, and relaxing at Sam Son beach will create a complete journey, with both cultural depth and full of beach tourism energy.
Trang Quynh's church is not only a historical relic but also a living symbol of the intellect and character of Vietnamese people. Once stop by the land of learning Hoang Hoa to feel more deeply about the cultural roots, to see that the spirit of learning and the benevolent humor of Trang Quynh remain a guiding light in the journey of preserving and promoting the cultural identity of Thanh Hoa today.
