Long Son Pagoda | Nha Trang

Long Son Pagoda is a Buddhist temple located on a hill in the city of Nha Trang, Vietnam.

It is a significant religious site known for its large white Buddha statue.

Visual Characteristics

The pagoda complex features a main temple building constructed with concrete and painted in white and yellow. The roof is tiled with traditional Vietnamese ceramic tiles. A prominent feature is the large white Buddha statue, seated on a lotus pedestal, situated on the hillside. The statue is approximately 24 meters (79 feet) in height. Smaller stupas and statues are also present throughout the grounds. The surrounding vegetation is tropical, with palm trees and other local flora.

Location & Access Logistics

Long Son Pagoda is situated approximately 3 kilometers (1.9 miles) west of Nha Trang's city center. Access is via a paved road, Tran Phu Street, which becomes Ly Thanh Ton Street. The pagoda is located at 22, 2022, Ly Thanh Ton Street. Parking is available on-site for cars and motorbikes. Public bus route number 02 stops within a 5-minute walk of the pagoda entrance.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The pagoda was founded in 1856 by the monk Thich Minh Giac. It has undergone several reconstructions and expansions over the years. The most significant addition was the construction of the white Buddha statue, completed in 1964. The site is built on a natural hillside, with the architecture integrated into the existing topography.

Key Highlights & Activities

Visitors can ascend the steps to reach the large white Buddha statue. The main temple hall contains a large reclining Buddha statue and various Buddhist artifacts. Observation decks offer views of Nha Trang city. Photography of the statues and temple architecture is permitted.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Restrooms are available on the lower levels of the pagoda complex. Shade is provided by the temple structures and surrounding trees. Cell phone signal (4G/5G) is generally good within the pagoda grounds. Food vendors are not directly on-site but are located on the streets leading to the pagoda.

Best Time to Visit

The best time of day for photography is in the late afternoon when the sunlight illuminates the white Buddha statue. The dry season, from January to August, offers the most favorable weather conditions with less rainfall. There are no tide-dependent activities at this location.

Facts & Legends

A notable historical detail is that the large white Buddha statue was constructed to commemorate monks and laypeople who died during the Vietnam War. Local lore suggests that making a wish while facing the reclining Buddha statue can bring good fortune.

Nearby Landmarks

• Po Nagar Cham Towers (1.5km Northeast)
• Nha Trang Cathedral (2.0km East)
• Alexandre Yersin Museum (2.5km East)
• Dam Market (2.8km East)