This is Lady Buddha Da Nang, the tallest Buddhist statue in Vietnam and an essential stop for anyone exploring the coastal city of Da Nang. Whether you are a spiritual seeker, a photography enthusiast, or simply looking for the best places to visit in Da Nang, the Lady Buddha (known locally as Chùa Linh Ứng) offers a unique blend of majestic architecture and breathtaking natural beauty.
What is Lady Buddha Da Nang?
The Lady Buddha Vietnam (officially the Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva or Guan Yin) is the centerpiece of the Linh Ung Pagoda complex. Rising 67 meters (220 feet) into the sky—roughly equivalent to a 30-story building—she stands on a lotus-shaped pedestal 35 meters in diameter.
Inside the statue, there are 17 floors, each housing an altar with 21 different Buddha statues. This “Buddha within Buddha” design makes it one of the most intricate religious structures in Southeast Asia. While the upper floors are often reserved for monks, the ground floor is open for visitors to pray and offer incense. More than Da Nang, Halong Bay, Sapa and Ha Giang are also wonderful places to visit in Vietnam, including marvelous natural views and rich cuisine.
Lady Buddha Da Nang History & Meaning
Understanding the Lady Buddha Da Nang history adds a layer of depth to your visit. The statue was constructed between 2004 and 2010, but the spiritual roots of this site date back to the 19th-century Nguyen Dynasty.
The Legend of “Buddha Beach”
According to local lore, a Buddha statue once drifted onto the shores of the Son Tra Peninsula during the reign of King Minh Mang. Local fishermen saw this as a divine omen and built a small shrine to worship. They named the area Bai But (Buddha’s Sanctuary).
The Guardian of the Sea
Today, the Lady Buddha faces the East Sea with a gentle gaze. In her right hand, she holds a water vase containing the “nectar of life,” and in her left, a willow branch used to sprinkle peace upon the world. Local residents believe her presence has protected Da Nang Vietnam from devastating typhoons, acting as a spiritual “shield” for the city and its fishermen.
Top Things to See in Da Nang’s Linh Ung Pagoda
While the statue is the main draw, the entire Linh Ung Pagoda complex is one of the top things to see in Da Nang.
- The Main Hall (Chinh Dien): A masterpiece of modern and traditional Vietnamese architecture with curved roofs and dragon-wrapped pillars.
- The Arhat Garden: Flanking the courtyard are 18 white stone statues of Arhats, each representing a different human emotion (joy, anger, sorrow, etc.) with incredibly lifelike expressions.
- Xa Loi Tower: A 9-story stupa standing over 30 meters tall, housing sacred relics.
- Panoramic Views: From the pagoda’s balcony, you can see the entire Da Nang skyline, the Marble Mountains in the distance, and the Cham Islands.
Essential Travel Tips when visit Lady Buddha Da Nang
How to Get There
Located about 10 km northeast of Da Nang’s city center, the Lady Buddha is easily accessible:
- By Motorbike: The ride up the Son Tra coastal road (Hoang Sa Road) is one of the most scenic in Vietnam.
- By Grab/Taxi: A convenient 15-20 minute drive from My Khe Beach.
- By Bicycle: Only for the very fit, as the final ascent involves steep inclines.
Opening Hours & Fees
- Entrance Fee: Free (Donations are welcome).
- Parking: Free (Voluntary donations are often accepted).
- Hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily.
Best Time to Visit
For the best photography, visit during the “Golden Hour” (4:30 PM – 5:30 PM). The sunset light hits the statue’s face, making it glow against the mountain backdrop. Alternatively, arrive at 6:30 AM to witness the monks’ morning chanting and avoid the mid-day heat and tour bus crowds.
Dress Code and Etiquette
Since this is an active place of worship, respect is paramount:
- Cover Up: Shoulders and knees must be covered. Avoid tank tops, short skirts, or transparent clothing.
- Remove Shoes: Before entering any indoor worship area or the base of the Lady Buddha.
- Silence: Keep voices low to respect those meditating or praying.
- Monkey Warning: The Son Tra Peninsula is famous for its wild monkeys. Do not feed them and keep a tight grip on your phone, sunglasses, and snacks.
Nearby Places to Visit in Da Nang
Since the Lady Buddha is on the Son Tra Peninsula, you can combine your visit with other nearby attractions:
- Ban Co Peak: The highest point on the peninsula with a famous statue of Confucius playing chess.
- The Thousand-Year-Old Banyan Tree: A massive, ancient tree with a complex root system.
- Man Thai Fishing Village: A great spot to see traditional “basket boats” early in the morning.
- Marble Mountains: Located about 20 minutes south, these limestone hills are the perfect afternoon companion to a morning at Lady Buddha.
Top 10 famous foods in Son Tra must try
While the Lady Buddha is a spiritual feast for the eyes, the Son Tra Peninsula is a literal feast for the stomach. Because of its location between the mountains and the sea, the food here is exceptionally fresh.
If you are staying in the Son Tra district or visiting the Son Tra Night Market, here are the top 10 famous foods you must try:
Fresh Seafood (Hải Sản)
This is the “king” of Son Tra. Because the fishing village of Man Thai is right at the foot of the mountain, the seafood goes from the ocean to your plate in hours.
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Must try: Grilled scallops with scallion oil and peanuts, or salted egg yolk lobster.
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Where: Be Man or Ba Ro (very popular with locals).
Mì Quảng (Quang-style Noodles)
The signature dish of the region. Unlike other noodle soups, Mì Quảng uses very little broth. The wide, turmeric-yellow noodles are topped with pork, shrimp, quail eggs, and a giant crispy rice cracker.
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Local Tip: Always add the fresh herbs and a squeeze of lime to balance the rich flavors.
Bánh Tráng Cuốn Thịt Heo (Pork Rice Paper Rolls)
A simple but addictive dish. You take a piece of soft rice paper, add a slice of specifically layered “two-end fat” boiled pork, fresh herbs, and green bananas, then roll it up.
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The Secret: The dipping sauce (mắm nêm)—a pungent, fermented anchovy sauce that defines Da Nang cuisine.
Gỏi Cá Nam Ô (Nam O Fish Salad)
Often called “Vietnamese Sashimi,” this is made from raw herring marinated in a spicy, ginger-based sauce and coated in toasted rice flour. It’s an adventurous choice that pays off in flavor.
Bún Chả Cá (Fish Cake Noodle Soup)
This isn’t your average fish soup. The broth is sweetened with pumpkin, pineapple, and cabbage. The fish cakes are handmade, chewy, and savory.
Bánh Xèo (Sizzling Crepes)
These crispy, golden pancakes are filled with shrimp and bean sprouts. In Son Tra, they are served with Nem Lụi (lemongrass pork skewers). You wrap both inside rice paper for the ultimate crunch.
Ốc Hút (Sucking Snails)
A popular street snack, especially at the Son Tra Night Market. These tiny snails are stir-fried with lemongrass, chili, and coconut milk. You “suck” the meat directly from the shell.
Bún Mắm Nêm (Vermicelli with Anchovy Sauce)
If you like bold, salty, and spicy flavors, this is for you. It features cold rice vermicelli, crispy roast pork, and young jackfruit, all drenched in the famous fermented fish sauce.
Bánh Canh Ruong (Field Thick Noodle Soup)
A “hidden gem” specialty near the Son Tra foothills. The noodles are thick and chewy (like udon), usually served with grilled fish, quail eggs, and a very spicy broth. It’s incredibly cheap and a favorite late-night snack.
Kem Bơ (Avocado Ice Cream)
The perfect dessert after a hot day of exploring. It’s a thick, creamy avocado smoothie topped with a scoop of coconut ice cream and crunchy dried coconut flakes.
FAQs about places to visit in Da Nang
Is the Lady Buddha Da Nang free to visit?
Yes, there is no entrance fee for the Lady Buddha or the Linh Ung Pagoda. It is one of the best free places to visit in Da Nang.
Can you go inside the Lady Buddha statue?
You can enter the ground floor (the main prayer hall) of the statue. While there are 17 floors inside, the upper levels are typically reserved for religious ceremonies and are not always open to the general public.
How long does it take to see the Lady Buddha?
Most visitors spend 1 to 1.5 hours exploring the statue, the pagoda, the Arhat garden, and enjoying the viewpoints.
Is it safe to drive a motorbike to the Lady Buddha?
The roads are paved and in good condition, but there are some steep sections. If you are an inexperienced rider, it is safer to take a Grab or a taxi.
Why is she called “Lady Buddha”?
In Vietnamese culture, she is Quan The Am (Avalokitesvara), the Bodhisattva of Compassion. Because she is depicted with feminine features and embodies motherly mercy, Western travelers often refer to her as the “Lady Buddha.”
Conclusion
The Lady Buddha Da Nang is more than just a monument; it is a symbol of the resilience and spirituality of the people of Da Nang Vietnam. Whether you are looking for a quiet place to meditate or the perfect Instagram shot overlooking the ocean, this site offers an unforgettable experience.
Plan your visit today and experience the peace of the Son Tra Peninsula!
Contact Vietnam Tour 247 for Booking tour to visit Lady Buddha Da Nang
- Website: Vietnamtours247
- Hotline: (+84) 979133907
- WhatsApp: (+84) 916289247
- Email: sales@vietnamtour247.com
- Vietnam: 128 Ngoc Tri St, Long Bien District, Hanoi
