Architectural Grandeur

Towering at 34 meters high and spanning a total area of 2,364 square meters, the Three Periods Hall impresses with both its size and elegance. The structure is built with reinforced concrete, finished in a warm, wood-colored tone that evokes the traditional architecture of ancient Vietnamese temples while ensuring the durability of modern engineering.

Upon entering the hall, visitors are immediately drawn into a space of reverence and serenity — a sanctuary dedicated to three great Buddhas, each representing a period in time:

• Amitabha Buddha (Left) – the Buddha of the Past

• Shakyamuni Buddha (Center) – the Buddha of the Present

• Maitreya Buddha (Right) – the Buddha of the Future

Each statue is a monumental work of art, standing 7.2 meters high and weighing 50 tons. These are the largest bronze Buddha statues in Vietnam enshrined within a single temple hall — a record-breaking achievement and a testament to the spiritual devotion behind Bai Dinh’s construction.

Sacred Symbolism in Every Gesture

Though the three Buddhas appear visually similar, a closer look reveals that each figure is distinguished by subtle differences in hand gestures and sitting postures, each symbolizing unique spiritual meanings:

• The central Buddha, Shakyamuni, represents the present. His hands are positioned in meditation mudra, symbolizing clarity, inner peace, and the pure mind that resists all evil.

• The right statue, Maitreya Buddha, is the Buddha of the future. His fearless mudra signifies courage, peace, and boundless compassion for sentient beings.

• The left statue, Amitabha Buddha, represents the past. His gesture is known as the Dharma teaching mudra, symbolizing the spreading of Buddhist teachings to save humanity from suffering.

These three Buddhas together reflect the eternal nature of Buddhist wisdom — timeless and ever-present — and remind us to live consciously, appreciating the precious value of the present moment.

A Living Reminder of the Three Times

Beyond their stunning physical presence, the Three Periods Buddhas serve as spiritual beacons. They embody the essence of Buddhist philosophy: that life is a journey shaped by past actions, present mindfulness, and future intentions. The Hall encourages each visitor to pause and reflect — to be grateful for the past, mindful of the now, and hopeful for what lies ahead.

Visiting the Three Periods Hall

To stand beneath these sacred statues, surrounded by the quiet majesty of the hall, is to feel a profound connection to something far greater than oneself. Whether you are a spiritual seeker or simply a curious traveler, the Three Periods Hall at Bai Dinh Pagoda offers an experience of wonder, peace, and timeless inspiration.

Continue your journey through Bai Dinh, where every corner holds a story, and every step brings you closer to the sacred.