Linh Ung Pagoda (Da Nang) Ba Na Hills

Linh Ung Pagoda, Da Nang Overview

The Linh Ung Pagoda in Da Nang is a prominent Buddhist temple known for its serene atmosphere, stunning architecture, and its impressive statue of the Goddess of Mercy, Guanyin. The pagoda complex comprises various shrines, prayer halls, and beautifully landscaped gardens. It is situated on a hill in the Son Tra Peninsula, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city, the sea, and the surrounding landscapes.

The pagoda, considered to be of utmost spiritual importance, is spread across an area of twelve hectares and is an ideal spot for witnessing mesmerizing sunsets and wonderful, panoramic views of the surrounding Da Nang.

Legend of the Pagoda

The legendary stories behind Linh Ung have been passed down through the ages, which speak of the Nguyen Dynasty. In the nineteenth century, during the reign of King Minh Mang, a statue of Lord Buddha drifted to the banks of Son Tra. Taking it to be a sign of good luck, the residents started building an altar for the worship of the statue. Following this incident, people confessed to have witnessed a change in the region. Son Tra became more stable with the fishermen being able to work in peace for several years. The site where the statue had arrived was then named Bai But, which translates to ‘Buddha’s Land on Earth’, and that is where the Linh Ung Pagoda had been built and stands majestically till date. The Pagoda was officially inaugurated on the 30th of July 2010, six years after its construction began – on the 19th of June 2004.

Architecture

Being the largest pagoda of Da Nang, the spectacular Linh Ung Pagoda is built in a gorgeous contemporary style blended with the traditional designs of pagodas in Vietnam. With roofs that have been curved in shapes resembling dragons and tall pillars surrounding them, the place of worship takes on a beautiful appearance. The main shrine is spacious and beautifully decorated, with a large seating capacity. In its centre is placed the dignified statue of Sakyamuni Buddha. To the right sits a figurine of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva, while the left is occupied by a statue of Buddha Tripitaka. In order to serve as protectors of the main deity, figures of eighteen Arhats and four guardians have been installed within the plaza. Each of the statues is an embodiment of a different emotion, including joy, love, hate, and anger. These statues have been carved from monolithic white stones, giving them a regal appearance. Stairs of stone and a majestic three-door gate lead one to a sprawling courtyard, lined with lush bonsai trees.

How To Reach Linh Ung Pagoda

Since this pagoda is situated on the Son Tra Peninsula, the facility of public transport is absent. One can reach there solely by private transport. By car, it takes about an hour and a half to get to Linh Ung from Da Nang via Ba Na – Suoi Mo. If one wishes to take a motorbike, the easiest route is via the My Khe Beach through Vo Nguyen Giap Street.