Linh Ung Pagoda
A spiritual climb, a stunning view.
4.7 ⭐ (5.9K)
Introduction
Linh Ung Pagoda (Chùa Linh Ứng Bãi Bụt) is a large-scale Buddhist complex located on the Son Tra Peninsula in Da Nang. Its most prominent feature is the 67-meter-tall statue of the Goddess of Mercy, known as Lady Buddha, which stands on a lotus-shaped platform and faces the sea. The pagoda is a significant site for local worshippers and offers expansive views of the city's coastline and the surrounding ocean.
The Lady Buddha Statue
This is the tallest statue of the Goddess of Mercy in Vietnam. It is designed to be a calming presence, protecting local fishermen and offering blessings of peace. The statue itself contains 17 floors, with each floor housing altars with 21 smaller Buddha statues.
Main Hall
The main sanctuary features traditional Vietnamese temple architecture with a curved tiled roof. Inside, it is a place of active worship, with intricate carvings and statues of the Buddha and other deities where locals come to pray.
The 18 Arhat Statues
Lining the pathway in the main courtyard are 18 large stone statues, each depicting one of the original disciples of Buddha. Every statue is carved with a different physical form and emotional expression, representing the various facets of the human condition on the path to enlightenment.
The Panoramic Viewpoint
From the pagoda's courtyard, you have an unobstructed, sweeping view over the sea, the Cham Islands in the distance, and the entire Da Nang beach strip. It is one of the most popular spots in the city for photography, especially at sunrise.
Getting there
From My Khe Beach to Linh Ung Pagoda (approx. 10 km):
🚗 Taxi: 15-20 mins | 150,000 - 200,000 VND ~ $6 - $8 USD
🚘 Ride-Hailing App (Grab/Xanh SM): 15-20 mins | 120,000 - 180,000 VND ~ $5 - $7 USD
🛵 Motorbike: 20-25 mins
Note: This is a popular option, but the road up the peninsula is steep and winding.
⚠️ If driving a motorbike, it is strongly recommended to use a semi-automatic or manual bike rather than an automatic scooter ("xe ga"). The steep downhill sections can be dangerous on automatic bikes if you are not an experienced driver. Always check your brakes before starting the ascent.
Hours & Admission
🕗 Opening hours:
- Monday - Sunday: 06:00 - 21:00
- Note: Hours are consistent throughout the year, but visiting during daylight is recommended for the views and safety on the roads.
🎫 Ticket prices:
- Foreign & Domestic Tourists: Free admission.
- Note: While entry is free, you may encounter small, informal fees for parking your motorbike (around 5,000 VND ~ $0.20 USD) or car at the base.
🚶 Best time to visit:
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon (around 16:00-17:00) to avoid the intense midday heat and large tour groups. This timing also provides softer light for photography. The dry season, from February to August, offers the best chance for clear skies and uninterrupted views of the coastline.
⌚ Recommended duration:
- Plan for 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the grounds, admire the statues, and take in the panoramic views without rushing.
Tips from locals
Local tips
👗 Arrive with appropriate attire. As an active place of worship, visitors are required to cover their shoulders and knees. While there are some sarongs available to borrow at the entrance, it's best to bring your own or dress respectfully to ensure entry.
🐒 Do not engage with the monkeys. The peninsula is home to wild macaques that frequent the pagoda grounds. They can be very bold and will attempt to snatch food, drinks, and shiny objects like sunglasses or phones. Keep your belongings secure and avoid eating in front of them.
🛵 If you rent a motorbike, ensure it has a full tank of gas before you start the drive up Son Tra Peninsula. There are no petrol stations on the mountain road, and running out of fuel on the steep inclines is a common issue for travelers.
💡 To go inside the Lady Buddha statue, look for a small, unassuming door at its base. Many visitors miss this entrance entirely. Entry is free, and climbing the 17 floors offers a unique perspective and a chance to see the small altars inside.
Be aware
⚠️ The road leading up to the pagoda is well-paved but features several steep inclines and sharp, winding turns. Drive with extreme caution, especially during the descent. If it has been raining, the road surface can be slippery, so reduce your speed accordingly.
🐒 While the monkeys can be an interesting sight, they are a frequent complaint among visitors. They can be aggressive, particularly if they think you have food. Do not make eye contact or show your teeth, as this can be interpreted as a sign of aggression.
🛍️ Be prepared for persistent vendors selling souvenirs, incense, and snacks in the parking area and near the entrance. A polite but firm "không, cảm ơn" (no, thank you) is usually sufficient if you are not interested.
FAQs
What is the entrance fee for Linh Ung Pagoda?
Entrance to the pagoda grounds and the Lady Buddha statue is completely free for all visitors. You may need to pay a small parking fee of around 5,000 VND.
Is there a dress code to enter Linh Ung Pagoda?
Yes, it is a religious site that requires visitors to dress respectfully. You must cover your shoulders and knees to enter the main halls and the statue.
Which Linh Ung Pagoda is the most famous in Da Nang?
The Linh Ung Pagoda on the Son Tra Peninsula, featuring the giant white Lady Buddha statue, is the most well-known and visited of the three pagodas with the same name in Da Nang.
How tall is the Lady Buddha statue?
The statue stands at 67 meters tall, which is equivalent to a 30-story building, making it the tallest statue of the Goddess of Mercy in Vietnam.
Can you go inside the Lady Buddha statue?
Yes, visitors can enter the statue through a door at its base and climb the 17 internal floors, each representing a different aspect of Buddhism.
What is the best way to get to Linh Ung Pagoda?
The most common ways are by motorbike or by hiring a car or taxi. While a motorbike offers flexibility, the roads are steep, so only experienced riders should attempt it. A ride-hailing app like Grab is a convenient and affordable option.
Are the monkeys at Linh Ung Pagoda dangerous?
They are wild animals and can be aggressive. Do not feed them or get too close. They are known to snatch bags, phones, and food from unsuspecting visitors.
How much time should I spend at Linh Ung Pagoda?
Budget around 1 to 1.5 hours. This allows enough time to see the main sights, take photos, and enjoy the panoramic views without feeling rushed.
Is it better to visit in the morning or evening?
Both are good, but for different reasons. The morning offers cooler temperatures and potentially clearer skies. The late afternoon provides softer light for photos and a chance to see the sunset colors over the city.
Is Linh Ung Pagoda accessible for wheelchairs?
The main courtyards and lower areas are relatively flat and accessible. However, accessing some of the halls and viewpoints may involve stairs, making full exploration difficult for those with mobility challenges.
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