Bich Dong, Buddhist temple complex in Hoa Lư, Ninh Bình Province, Vietnam.
This Buddhist temple complex consists of three separate structures built into and around natural limestone caves, connected by stone pathways that climb through rocky terrain adorned with moss-covered sculptures and flowering trees.
Originally constructed in 1428, the site was abandoned during periods of conflict and later restored in the early 18th century by two Buddhist monks who dedicated themselves to reviving the complex and its religious practices.
The site is designed to represent a symbolic lotus flower, with five surrounding mountains forming its petals, reflecting traditional Vietnamese beliefs in feng shui and the spiritual significance of natural landscapes.
Visitors can reach the complex by walking about 1 to 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) from Tam Coc or by taking a short taxi ride costing approximately 20,000 Vietnamese dong each way.
The middle temple is partly built inside a natural cave and features a copper bell from the 18th century that local tradition says can be rung to bring justice to those wronged.
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