Standing as a sentinel of peace atop the verdant slopes of the Son Tra Peninsula, the Linh Ung Pagoda is not just a religious site; it is the spiritual heartbeat of Central Vietnam. Known primarily for the towering Linh Ung Pagoda Lady Buddha, this temple complex offers a profound blend of architectural mastery, sacred history, and the most breathtaking panoramic views in the region.
Whether you are a devout pilgrim or a traveler seeking the best places to visit in Da Nang, the “Spiritual Triangle” formed by the three Linh Ung pagodas is a journey you cannot miss. In this ultimate 2026 guide, we explore the deep Linh Ung Pagoda history, essential Linh Ung Pagoda opening hours, and the cultural significance of the Goddess of Mercy.
The Legend and History of Linh Ung Pagoda
The name “Linh Ung” translates to “wishes answered miraculously,” a fitting title for a place steeped in divine lore. While there are three pagodas with this name in Da Nang, the one on the Son Tra Peninsula (Linh Ung Bai But) is the largest and most famous.
The Legend of Bai But (Buddha’s Sanctuary)
The Linh Ung Pagoda history begins long before the first stone was laid in 2004. According to local 19th-century folklore from the reign of King Minh Mang (Nguyen Dynasty), a driftwood Buddha statue washed ashore on a sandy embankment on the Son Tra Peninsula.
Believing this to be a holy omen, local fishermen built a small shrine to worship the statue. From that day forward, the legend says the treacherous coastal storms ceased, the seas grew calm, and the fishermen enjoyed bountiful harvests. The area was named Bai But (meaning “Buddha’s Sanctuary in the Real World”), the very ground upon which the modern pagoda stands today.
The Construction of a Modern Marvel
The current complex was inaugurated on July 4, 2004, and took six years to complete. It was envisioned as a “Buddhist Triangle” to protect Da Nang:
- Linh Ung Non Nuoc: Located on the Marble Mountains (South).
- Linh Ung Ba Na: Located on the peaks of Ba Na Hills (West).
- Linh Ung Bai But: Located on the Son Tra Peninsula (East).
Besides, you cloud discover other marvelous places in Da Nang such as Ba Na Hills, Dragon Bridge and experience many things to do in Da Nang.
The Iconic Lady Buddha: Vietnam’s Tallest Statue
The undisputed highlight of the Linh Ung Pagoda Da Nang is the magnificent Lady Buddha.
Architectural Specifications
- Height: 67 meters (equivalent to a 30-story building).
- Base: A lotus-shaped pedestal with a diameter of 35 meters.
- Internal Structure: The statue is essentially a “Buddha within a Buddha.” Inside, there are 17 floors, each housing an altar with 21 different Buddha statues.
- The Crown: On top of the Lady Buddha’s head sits a 2-meter tall statue of the Buddha.
Spiritual Symbolism
The Lady Buddha stands with her back to the mountains and her eyes looking out toward the East Sea. One hand holds a water vase containing the “nectar of life,” while the other forms a mudra of peace. Locals believe she watches over the sailors and protects the city from natural disasters. Interestingly, since the statue’s completion in 2010, Da Nang has statistically seen fewer severe typhoons than in previous decades—a fact that reinforces the locals’ deep faith.
Exploring the Temple Complex
The Linh Ung Pagoda covers a massive 20-hectare area, featuring several distinct architectural wonders.
The Main Hall (Chinh Dien)
The main sanctuary is a masterpiece of contemporary and traditional Vietnamese architecture. It features a curved roof decorated with dragon motifs—a symbol of power and protection.
- Inside: You will find three main statues: Sakyamuni Buddha (center), Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (right), and Ksitigarbha Bodhisattva (left).
- The Atmosphere: The hall is filled with the scent of sandalwood incense and the gentle chanting of monks, offering a space for deep meditation.
The Arhat Statue Garden
Leading up to the main hall is a striking collection of 18 marble Arhat statues.
- Artistry: Carved by the master artisans of the Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, each statue represents a different human emotion: joy, anger, love, and sadness.
- Symbolism: These statues are believed to protect the temple and guide visitors toward spiritual enlightenment.
Xa Loi Tower
Located near the entrance, this 9-story tower stands over 30 meters tall. It is famous for housing a large number of stone statues and offers a quiet spot for photography against the backdrop of the ocean.
Visitor Guide: Opening Hours, Fees, and Tips
To ensure your visit to Linh Ung Pagoda Da Nang is seamless, keep these practical details in mind:
Linh Ung Pagoda Opening Hours
- Daily: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
- Best Time to Visit: Arrive at 7:30 AM to beat the heat and the large tour buses. Alternatively, visit at 5:30 PM to see the sun set over the city and watch the Lady Buddha illuminate under the moonlight.
Entrance Fees
- Admission: Free.
- Parking: Free (though it is customary to leave a small donation of 5,000–10,000 VND to the volunteers who manage the lot).
Essential Rules (Dress Code & Etiquette)
- Dress Modestly: This is a sacred religious site. Shoulders and knees must be covered. Avoid wearing hats or sunglasses inside the Main Hall.
- Remove Shoes: You must take off your shoes before entering any of the prayer halls.
- Silence: Maintain a quiet voice to respect the monks and practitioners.
How to Get to Linh Ung Pagoda
The pagoda is located approximately 10 kilometers northeast of the Da Nang city center on the Hoang Sa coastal road.
- By Private Car (Most Popular): For the highest comfort and safety, booking a private car through Vietnam Tour 247 is the best option, especially if you plan to explore the rest of the Son Tra Peninsula.
- By Motorbike: The coastal road is scenic and well-paved. It takes about 20 minutes from My Khe Beach.
- By Taxi/Grab: Taxis are readily available, but be sure to book a round-trip or have the driver wait, as getting a returning Grab from the mountain can be difficult during off-peak hours.
Why Book Your Spiritual Tour with Vietnam Tour 247?
A visit to the Linh Ung Pagoda is more than just a photo opportunity—it is a deep dive into Vietnamese belief systems. At Vietnam Tour 247, we provide expert guides who can explain the intricate meanings behind the Arhat statues and the history of Buddhism in Central Vietnam.
Our Premium Services Include:
- Expert Local Guides: Fluent in English and passionate about Da Nang’s history.
- Luxury Transport: Air-conditioned vehicles to keep you cool between stops.
- Flexible Itineraries: Combine your visit to the Linh Ung Pagoda Lady Buddha with a trip to the Marble Mountains or a sunset seafood dinner.
Contact Vietnam Tour 247 for Booking:
Ready to discover the miracle of the Lady Buddha? Contact our team today to arrange your private or group tour.
- Website: Vietnamtours247
- Hotline: (+84) 979133907
- WhatsApp: (+84) 916289247
- Email: sales@vietnamtour247.com
- Vietnam: 128 Ngoc Tri St, Long Bien District, Hanoi
FAQs about Linh Ung Pagoda
Can I go inside the Lady Buddha statue?
Yes, the ground floor of the statue is open to visitors for prayer. While there are 17 floors inside, the upper floors are usually reserved for monks and religious ceremonies.
Are there monkeys at Linh Ung Pagoda?
Yes! The pagoda is located on “Monkey Mountain.” You will often see wild macaques roaming the parking lot and gardens. Tip: Do not feed them or bring plastic bags near them, as they can be quite bold in searching for food!
Which is the best Linh Ung Pagoda to visit?
If you only have time for one, visit the Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula. It is the largest, has the tallest statue, and offers the best views of the ocean.
How much time do I need at the pagoda?
Plan for at least 1 to 1.5 hours to walk through the gardens, visit the Main Hall, and take photos at the base of the Lady Buddha.
Conclusion
The Linh Ung Pagoda stands as a magnificent intersection of nature and divinity. From its legendary origins at Bai But to its modern status as a beacon of protection for the city, it remains one of the most essential places to visit in Da Nang. Whether you come for the architectural grandeur of the Linh Ung Pagoda Lady Buddha or the peaceful energy of the gardens, you will leave with a sense of “miracles answered.”
