From midday, long lines formed as people arrived with simple offerings of incense, flowers, betel leaves, fruit and cakes, observing a solemn, reverent atmosphere despite the bustle.
The last full moon is traditionally a time to express gratitude for the year past and to wish health, fortune and peace.
Offering tables in front of the main hall were packed with trays of fruit, cakes, prayer papers and votive items, while the Son Trang Shrine inside was filled with worshippers paying their respects.
For regular visitors such as Ngo Thanh Huyen, the year-end visit is a long-held ritual to give thanks and pray for well-being in the year ahead.
Some also released birds as an act of compassion, hoping to ward off misfortune and welcome good luck.
As incense smoke drifted across the still waters of West Lake, many said the ritual offered a moment of pause, a chance to set aside the worries of the old year and look ahead to a new one with hope for peace and renewal.
