Long Son Pagoda was built in 1886 by Superior Monk Thich Ngo Tri, a famous monk of the Lam Te Zen sect. Initially, the pagoda was just a thatched house on the top of Trai Thuy hill, but after many renovations and reconstructions, the pagoda has become a unique and impressive architectural work, combining Eastern and modern styles.
The highlight of Long Son Pagoda is the statue of Kim Than Buddha, also known as the White Buddha, 24 meters high, placed on a 7-meter high lotus pedestal. This is the largest outdoor Buddha statue in Vietnam, recognized in the Guinness Book of Vietnam Records. From the Buddha statue, visitors can admire the beautiful cityscape of Nha Trang and the vast blue sea.
In addition, there are many other notable constructions in the pagoda’s premises, such as Dai Hung Bao Dien, where the statue of Buddha Thich Ca Mau Ni made of bronze 1.6 meters high is worshipped; the statue of Buddha entering Nirvana, or the lying Buddha, 17 meters long, 5 meters high; the bell tower with a giant bell weighing 1.5 tons; the memorial for the monks who self-immolated to protest against Ngo Dinh Diem’s policy of suppressing Buddhism; and the souvenir stall, where visitors can buy items with spiritual meanings.
Long Son Pagoda is not only an attractive tourist destination but also an important Buddhist center of Khanh Hoa province. The pagoda is the headquarters of the Vietnam Buddhist Church in the locality, and also a place to train high monks and Buddhist students. The pagoda often organizes festivals and charitable activities, contributing to the development of Buddhism and the community.
Coming to Long Son Pagoda, visitors will experience a peaceful and sacred space, admire unique and meaningful works of art, and learn about the culture and history of Buddhism in Nha Trang. Long Son Pagoda is a must-visit destination in your journey to explore Nha Trang.
