The Hagiography of the Lady of Five Directions in Hải Phòng Province

The Lady of Five Directions is a cherished deity among Four Palaces devotees even though She is not in the official pantheon. Her annual festival falls on the 16th of the lunisolar 6th month.

As the legend unfolds, She was once a divine being before descending to Earth and becoming an illustrious military general during King Ngô’s reign. After Her divine ascension, She assumed the role of ruling over the five directions, hence the title Lady of Five Directions. Another name She bears is Princess Vũ Quận Bạch Hoa, where “Vũ” symbolizes Her mortal lineage, and “Bạch Hoa” means White Flower.

Throughout the region, numerous shrines honor the Lady of Five Directions, but Her primary shrine resides in Her hometown, Hải Phòng province, particularly at the renowned Cấm Giang Bản Cảnh Shrine (Nguyệt Quang Temple).

In Hải Phòng province and its nearby regions, numerous priests hold the serving-the-reflection ceremony with a special request to serve the reflection of the revered Lady of Five Directions. During the opening-palace rite of passage, participants engage in a deeply meaningful tradition by presenting a votive paper craft set dedicated to the Princess of Five Directions.

This set comprises finely crafted figurines of the Lady herself, accompanied by Her loyal handmaidens, the distinguished Quai Thao hat, elegant Hài mules, and a beautifully adorned pulled rickshaw. This offering symbolizes the profound reverence and devotion towards the esteemed Lady, preserving ancient customs and traditions that continue to resonate throughout generations.