At this working Buddhist temple, the many monks and novices clad in brown robes are always busily padding about from class to class and to meditation and worship. Wooden gongs clock the activities of the day. Monks are friendly, and if you time it right (btw. class time or before or after lunch), you are sure to meet up with these cherubic lads, who are all eager to practice their English. I even got some Vietnamese singing lessons. The surrounding ponds and gardens are immaculate, real-deal Zen living, and the temple was just recently graced with a visit by Vietnam's most well-known expatriate teacher -- whose writings are so popular in the West -- Thich Nhat Hahn. Next door is a nunnery, busier than the monastery and with a small Bannar house adjoining. The approach road to the temple continues on to hilly farmland.