The first place the delegation visited was Nguyen Van Linh Square – where the statue of the General Secretary is located, whose name is closely associated with the revolution in South Vietnam, with the cause of national liberation, reunification of the country, and the cause of national renewal.
Next, the delegation offered incense at the Xich Dang Temple of Literature, also known as the Hung Yen Temple of Literature, an important relic within the Pho Hien historical complex. This is a place that honors scholarship and has become a symbol of Hung Yen's culture and civilization. The temple grounds span nearly 6 hectares, with the Vac pond in front and Van Lake to the west. The entire complex is arranged in a harmonious and seamless manner. The most valuable artifacts are the nine steles of the Xich Dang Temple of Literature, eight of which were erected in the 3rd year of the Dong Khanh reign (1888) and one in the 18th year of the Bao Dai reign (1943). These steles record the names of those who passed the highest imperial examinations (from Hung Yen and Thai Binh provinces) during the Tran, Mac, Le, and Nguyen dynasties. In addition, the two bells and the stone chime of the Xich Dang Temple of Literature are also ancient relics cast in the 18th century.
Leaving the Xich Dang Temple of Literature, the group proceeded to offer incense at Chuong Pagoda, located on Van Mieu Street in Hien Nam Ward, Hung Yen City. Chuong Pagoda in Hung Yen is a unique architectural and artistic relic, part of the famous Pho Hien historical complex. With its rich history, beautiful architecture, and unique collection of ancient statues, Chuong Pagoda has become an attractive destination for sightseeing and spiritual tourism.
The delegation also offered incense at Tran Temple – a temple dedicated to Tran Hung Dao, a famous national hero, thereby demonstrating the timeless Vietnamese principle of "remembering the one who planted the tree when you eat the fruit." Afterwards, the delegation offered incense at Mau Temple, located on the shores of the picturesque Crescent Lake, with its clear, calm waters and lush greenery. Mau Temple (Quang Trung Ward – Hung Yen City) is a purely Vietnamese architectural masterpiece and a historical and cultural site deeply connected to the people.
The final stop for the group was the Ancestral Longan Tree – an ancestral longan tree over 400 years old, located at Hien Pagoda (Pho Hien, Hung Yen), which serves as powerful evidence of the origin of the Hung Yen specialty longan variety today.
Members of the School's Retired Teachers' Association had an exciting day exploring the historical and cultural sites of Hung Yen. The saying "First the capital, second Pho Hien" is certainly true when people mention Pho Hien, Hung Yen – a place once bustling and vibrant with foreign merchants. Today, Pho Hien no longer has the same lively atmosphere; instead, it exudes a quiet, nostalgic charm, evoking a sense of peace for visitors. The exchange and field trip to learn about the historical and cultural sites of Hung Yen left many beautiful impressions and emotions in each member. The members expressed their hope that the School's Retired Teachers' Association and the School's Trade Union would continue to support the Association in maintaining and organizing more meaningful visits and exchanges.
Here are some photos from the tour.
