As a regional religious center, Lanh Giang Temple is a large-scale architectural work. It is situated on a high, wide, flat, and open piece of land which is described as “Kết duyên cơ – Minh đường tụ thủy, tả Thanh Long – hữu Bạch Hổ”. This means that it looks over a big lake at the front, which reminds one of the royal meeting hall – an indication of concentrated blessings. On the left, the topography is raised and winding which resembles “Thanh Long” (the Azure Dragon) – a symbol of yang and an indication of ascendancy and prosperity. On the right is a raised and wide section of land which resembles “Bạch Hổ” (the White Tiger) – a symbol of yin. Yin and yang must be present in harmony for all beings to come into existence and grow. This is the law of nature. The temple looks over a wide lake. Past generations considered water an indispensable element in all projects and that it should be on the front of any religious building. A lake is, therefore, an integral part of all relics. A double-deck, eight-roofed water pavilion was constructed on the lake outside the gate of Lanh Giang Temple. The architectural components of the water pavilion are embellished with dragon, unicorn and foliage patterns. Its “tàu đao lá mái” roof (flat sloped sides with upturned eaves which resembles the upturned tip of a blade) creates a majestic and solemn vibe for the temple.

The water element also matches the origin of the deities worshiped here. The three great generals first worshiped at the temple were apparently reincarnations of water gods. Chu Dong Tu, who was worshiped here later, also came from a river himself. This land parcel with a water element, therefore, must have been picked by ancient architects for religious and spiritual reasons.

In terms of direction, Lanh Giang Temple faces the east where the Red River, which has supplied natural resources and protected generations of Yen Lac villagers, is located. Hence, the direction and the topography of Lanh Giang Temple are profoundly meaningful as they convey the history and cultural identity of Duy Tien residents in the olden days.

Apart from the land form and direction, landscaping was executed with attention to detail to create the atmosphere of a serene and beautiful spiritual space and help the temple blend perfectly with nature. In addition, trees are home to deities and a haven for spirits who seek protection from deities. There are many trees before the gate to Lanh Giang Temple. Their root networks cover the rock caves where the Goddess of Mountain Villages is worshiped, giving it a solemn and sacred appearance. Many longan, cananga and other trees are planted in front of and around the water pavilion, providing shade and nice scents and adding to the beauty of the relic.