Linh Son Ancient Pagoda (Chùa Linh Sơn Cổ Tự), located at 104 Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Vung Tau, is one of the oldest and most spiritually significant Buddhist temples in the coastal city. Recognized as a National Architectural and Cultural Heritage Site on August 3, 1991, the pagoda preserves more than a century of religious traditions, historical events, and cultural values of Vung Tau.
Today, Linh Son Ancient Pagoda is not only an active place of worship but also one of Vietnam’s Top 100 Spiritual Tourism Destinations, welcoming thousands of pilgrims and visitors each year.
Historical Background – A Century-Old Spiritual Landmark
The exact year of its establishment is unknown, but Linh Son Ancient Pagoda has existed for over 100 years. Its earliest form was a small thatched shrine built near the foothills of Big Mountain, close to the former French telegraph station (today’s Phan Boi Chau Street).
The turbulent early 20th century
- 1919: The pagoda on Small Mountain was demolished by the French to build residences for their pilots and officers.
- 1921: The French authorities again ordered the relocation of the temple.
- Despite these challenges, the local Buddhist community rebuilt Linh Son Ancient Pagoda almost immediately, preserving its spiritual life through decades of upheaval.
Reconstruction in 1959
In 1959, the Vung Tau community and Abbot Venerable Thích Tịnh Viên reconstructed the pagoda on the grounds of an old French villa called Villa des Tamarens. The new structure was built more solidly, replacing the earlier wooden and leaf-roofed shrine. Since then, only minor upkeep has been needed, allowing the pagoda to maintain its classic yet humble appearance until today.
The Legend of the 1,600-Year-Old Sandstone Buddha
One of the most valuable treasures of Linh Son Ancient Pagoda is the 1.2-meter sandstone statue of Sakyamuni Buddha, crafted with refined details and a gentle, compassionate expression.
Archaeologists estimate the statue to be around 1,600 years old, likely originating from the Champa or Chenla (Khmer) civilizations.
The discovery
Local oral history recounts that:
- Over a century ago, fishermen from Central Vietnam discovered two stone Buddha statues buried on the slopes of Big Mountain near Bai Dau.
- When attempting to take both statues home, villagers from Thang Tam Ward intervened, believing the artifacts belonged to the land of Vung Tau.
- After negotiations, the fishermen were allowed to take the smaller statue, while the larger statue was carried back to Linh Son Ancient Pagoda.
To this day, the larger statue remains at the pagoda and is regarded as a rare original artifact. The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism has submitted documentation to the Government to designate it as a National Treasure.
Architectural Features of Linh Son Ancient Pagoda
Though modest compared to many grand temples, Linh Son Ancient Pagoda preserves a harmonious blend of traditional Buddhist architecture and modern simplicity.
Overall layout
The pagoda complex spans over 11,000 m², featuring:
The main gate
The main temple hall
The monks’ residence
The Heavenly Kings Hall (Điện Thiên Vương)
The Bodhi School (Trường Bồ Đề)
A 7,350 m² lotus pond symbolizing the harmonious “mountain-in-front, water-behind” feng shui.
The pagoda faces Front Beach (Bãi Trước), with Big Mountain on one side and the lotus lake on the other, creating a peaceful and naturally blessed environment.
The Main Hall (Chánh Điện)
Built in a simplified modern style:
- Mũi tiles for the roof
- Whitewashed walls
- Green-toned metal ceiling
- Cement altar tables
Wooden beams combined with steel joints
Inside the main hall:
12 Buddha statues are enshrined
The 1.2-meter ancient sandstone Buddha occupies the highest position
Other statues include:
- A bronze Maitreya Buddha (brought from Laos in 1972)
- Amitabha Buddha
- Medicine Buddha (Dược Sư)
- Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara (Quan Âm)
- Bodhisattva Kṣitigarbha (Địa Tạng)
- Dharma Guardians
Heavenly Kings Hall (Điện Thiên Vương)
This hall houses statues of:
- Jade Emperor
- Dharma Protector
- Guan Yu (Quan Thánh)
- Lady Cửu Chân Huyền Nữ
All statues are made from cement and gilded.
Bodhi School (Trường Bồ Đề)
Established before 1975 as a Buddhist learning center and cultural school for children of local Buddhists. Today, it continues to serve as classrooms for primary education.
Cultural and Historical Significance
Linh Son Ancient Pagoda was officially recognized as a National Architectural and Cultural Heritage Site under Decision 1371/VH-QĐ, thanks to:
- Its role as the oldest Buddhist temple in Vung Tau
- Its preservation of rare artifacts, including the ancient sandstone Buddha
- Its unique combination of historical, architectural, and religious values
- Its impact on the spiritual life of generations of Vung Tau residents
During major Buddhist holidays such as Lunar January Full Moon and Vesak, the pagoda attracts thousands of visitors and pilgrims.
Linh Son Ancient Pagoda Today – A Peaceful Spiritual Destination
Visitors are drawn to Linh Son Ancient Pagoda for:
- Its tranquil setting in the heart of Vung Tau
- Ancient architecture mixed with lush greenery and a large lotus pond
- The sacred 1,600-year-old sandstone Buddha
- A peaceful environment for prayer, reflection, and photography
Whether you come for worship, cultural exploration, or simply to enjoy a serene moment, Linh Son Ancient Pagoda offers a calming escape from the vibrant seaside city.
Linh Son Ancient Pagoda is not only a historic Buddhist temple but also a symbol of Vung Tau’s spiritual heritage. With its ancient artifacts, timeless architecture, and tranquil surroundings, the pagoda stands as a must-visit destination for travelers seeking culture, history, and inner peace.
