Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula: Travel Guide & Things to Do

Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula is Da Nang's most magnificent spiritual landmark, a place where sacred tradition meets breathtaking natural beauty. As your friendly local guides at GTrip, we've designed this article to be the single most comprehensive resource you'll find online. Perched on a mountainside overlooking the turquoise sea, the pagoda is famous for its towering Lady Buddha statue, which stands as a benevolent guardian over the city. This guide provides essential insights into its history, architecture, highlights, and practical visiting tips. You'll leave with no questions unanswered and a deep appreciation for this essential Da Nang destination.

An overview of Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula

• Location: Lumbini Garden, Hoang Sa Street, Son Tra Ward (formerly Tho Quang Ward, Son Tra District), Da Nang City
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM - 9:00 PM daily
• Entrance fee: Free

While Da Nang boasts three holy sites sharing the name "Linh Ung", the Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula, also known as Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda in Da Nang, is the most prominent and spacious. Distinct from its counterparts on Ba Na Hills and the Marble Mountains, this specific sanctuary is defined by its coastal location and the towering 67-meter Lady Buddha statue. It serves as a unique spiritual landmark where sacred architecture meets the vast beauty of the East Sea.

Linh Ung Pagoda on the Son Tra Peninsula stands out as the largest and most famous, renowned for its coastal setting and the iconic Lady Buddha overlooking the East Sea

Best time to visit Linh Ung Pagoda Son Tra

To make the most of your visit, timing plays a crucial role. Below is a breakdown of the best season and the ideal time of day to visit Linh Ung Pagoda, helping you enjoy both comfortable weather and a more serene atmosphere.

Best season to visit (March to September)

The best time to visit is during Da Nang’s dry season, which runs from March to September. This period offers the most favorable weather conditions for exploring the Son Tra Peninsula.

• Stable weather: This period is characterized by long, sunny days and minimal rainfall, ensuring your plans aren't disrupted by sudden downpours.
• Clear views: The clear, blue skies provide unobstructed, picture-perfect panoramic views of the coastline, the city, and the sea from the pagoda’s elevated vantage point.
• Ideal for photography: The consistent sunlight is perfect for capturing the vibrant colors of the pagoda’s architecture and the stunning natural surroundings.

The best time to visit is from March to September, when dry, sunny weather offers clear views and ideal conditions for exploring Son Tra Peninsula

Best time of day to visit (6:00 AM to 9:00 AM)

The best time of day to visit is in the early morning, between 6:00 AM and 9:00 AM, to get ahead of both the heat and the crowds. Arriving early allows you to experience the pagoda in a more peaceful and contemplative state, with the cool morning air making it comfortable to walk around the expansive complex. This time also offers the softest, most beautiful light for photography, illuminating the Lady Buddha statue and the coastline in a gentle, golden glow before the harsh midday sun takes over.

History of the Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula

While it feels timeless, the Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula is a relatively modern masterpiece, with construction starting in 2004 and completing in 2010. Its location, however, is steeped in local legend. During the reign of Emperor Minh Mang of the Nguyen Dynasty in the 19th century, local fishermen discovered a statue of the Goddess of Mercy (Guan Yin) that had washed ashore on the peninsula. They built a small shrine to worship it, and from that day on, the area enjoyed peaceful seas and prosperous fishing seasons. The local people named the area "Bai But", meaning "Buddha's Sanctuary on Earth".

Inspired by this sacred event, the grand Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda was constructed on this very hillside. It is considered a spiritual shield for Da Nang, a modern monument that continues the ancient tradition of watching over the local people. It is believed that since the pagoda's completion, the city has been protected from major typhoons and storms, reinforcing its role as a powerful symbol of peace and protection for all of Da Nang.

Built between 2004 and 2010 on the legendary Bai But hillside, Linh Ung Pagoda is a modern spiritual landmark believed to protect Da Nang

Architecture of Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula

Linh Ung Pagoda stands out as a spiritual landmark and as an architectural masterpiece overlooking the sea. Its design can be best appreciated by exploring both the exterior layout and the interior worship spaces, each reflecting deep Buddhist symbolism and refined craftsmanship.

Exterior of the pagoda

The exterior of Linh Ung Pagoda is designed as a symbolic journey, leading visitors step by step into a sacred and tranquil space.

• Three-gate entrance (Cong tam quan): The visit begins at the grand traditional gateway, marking the transition from the outside world into the spiritual grounds of the pagoda.
• Processional walkway: Beyond the gate, a wide stone path unfolds, lined with manicured bonsai trees and 18 white stone Arhat statues, each carved with a distinct facial expression and posture.
• Main courtyard & Lady Buddha Statue: The walkway opens into the main courtyard, which is dominated by the iconic Lady Buddha Statue. At 67 meters tall, facing the sea to protect fishermen and bless Da Nang.

One of the most remarkable features is the statue’s “Buddha within Buddha” design. Inside, the hollow structure contains 17 levels, each housing altars with 21 Buddha statues, allowing visitors to explore both its spiritual and architectural depth.

The pagoda’s exterior forms a spiritual journey, leading from the three-gate entrance to the main courtyard crowned by the towering 67-meter Lady Buddha

Interior of the Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda

The worship complex is the main hall, a grand and ornate building that exemplifies a harmonious blend of traditional Vietnamese temple design and modern architectural techniques. The hall's immense roof is decorated with curved eaves and sculpted dragons, classic symbols of power and prosperity. Inside, the atmosphere is deeply serene and reverent, filled with the faint scent of incense. This expansive space is where major ceremonies, prayers, and chanting sessions take place.

The main hall’s interior is a showcase of exquisite craftsmanship, from the lacquered wooden pillars to the finely carved details on the walls and altars. The central altar houses three large, magnificent Buddha statues. The central statue depicts Shakyamuni Buddha, flanked by the Bodhisattvas of Compassion and the Hells holding the Tripitaka. Surrounding them are smaller statues and shrines dedicated to other deities and Bodhisattvas, making the main hall a profound center for spiritual reflection.

Things to do at the Linh Ung Pagoda Son Tra

Beyond its spiritual significance and architectural grandeur, Linh Ung Bai But Pagoda is a remarkable destination in Da Nang. Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula also offers a wealth of captivating experiences for every traveler.

1. Admire the Lady Buddha Statue, tall 67 meters

The awe-inspiring Lady Buddha in Linh Ung Pagoda is the undeniable highlight of your Da Nang trip. Take time to marvel at its sheer scale from the courtyard below, appreciating how it serenely overlooks the entire coastline. A unique aspect of the statue is that you can enter its base and climb the 17 floors inside. Each floor, representing a different realm of heaven, contains its own altar with 21 intricately sculpted buddha statues. This vertical pilgrimage offers a one-of-a-kind spiritual experience and is a powerful reminder of the statue's role as a symbol of protection for Da Nang’s residents and fishermen.

The towering Lady Buddha dominates Linh Ung Pagoda, offering a unique spiritual journey with 17 inner levels of altars and sweeping views over Da Nang’s coastline

2. Practice spiritual rituals & fortune telling

For a deeper cultural experience, you can respectfully participate in local spiritual practices. At the main hall, you can light incense as an offering, a gesture used to send prayers for peace, health, and good fortune. Another fascinating tradition to observe or try is 'xin xam', or the shaking of fortune sticks. Visitors kneel before an altar, silently ask a question, and shake a bamboo cylinder filled with numbered sticks until one falls out. The number corresponds to a printed sheet of paper that offers poetic guidance or a prediction for the future.

3. Join major Buddhist Festivals

If your visit aligns with a major holiday, you'll witness the pagoda at its most vibrant. The grounds come alive with thousands of pilgrims and festive decorations during significant events, such as the Lady Buddha Commemoration Days, Vesak, and Tet.

• Lady Buddha Commemoration Days: Celebrated on the 19th day of the 2nd, 6th, and 9th lunar months.
• Vesak (Buddha's Birthday): The festival was held on the 15th day of the 4th lunar month. This is one of the most important Buddhist holidays, featuring elaborate ceremonies and processions.
• Tet (Lunar New Year): Locals visit the pagoda to practice "li xi", a tradition of picking a leafy branch for good luck in the new year.

During major holidays, Linh Ung Pagoda becomes especially lively with crowds of pilgrims, ceremonies, and festive decorations

4. Capture panoramic views of the Da Nang Coastline

The pagoda’s location offers one of the most spectacular viewpoints in all of Da Nang. From the main courtyard, you are treated to a stunning 180-degree vista of the city and sea. Your eyes can trace the entire arc of the coastline, including the golden sands of My Khe Beach to the distant silhouette of the Marble Mountains. You can also see the dynamic city skyline's various landmarks, including its towering skyscrapers, winding Han River, and iconic bridges. For the best photos, plan your visit in the late afternoon to capture the magical golden hour light as the sun begins to set over the city.

5. Explore the garden of 18 Arhat Statues

Don’t rush past the grand walkway leading to the main temple. This path is a gallery of art and emotion, lined with 18 large, white stone statues of the Arhats. Each sculpture is a masterpiece of detail, capturing the unique personality and story of these enlightened disciples. Take a moment to observe their incredible facial expressions, which depict the full range of human emotions, like joy, anger, contemplation, and sorrow. Notice the different symbolic artifacts they hold and their distinct postures, which together tell a story of the path to enlightenment. This garden offers a fascinating and artistic introduction to Buddhist philosophy.

6. Observe monkeys

The Son Tra Peninsula is a protected nature reserve, famous for its rich biodiversity, including rare red-shanked douc langurs and macaques. It’s not uncommon to spot monkeys in the trees and forested areas surrounding the pagoda complex, adding a touch of wild nature to your spiritual visit. While it's exciting to see them, it is crucial to remember they are wild animals. For both your safety and the well-being of the animals, please do not feed the monkeys. Feeding them can make them aggressive and dependent on humans, disrupting their natural behaviors.

A protected nature reserve, Son Tra Peninsula is home to rare langurs and macaques, often seen near the pagoda, best admired from a distance and never fed

How to get to Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula

Getting to the pagoda from Da Nang City center is a scenic 20-30 minute drive along the beautiful coastline. Here are the most popular transportation options:

• Motorbike/Scooter: The most popular choice for adventurous travelers. Renting a scooter gives you the freedom to explore the entire Son Tra Peninsula at your own pace. The road is well-paved but has some steep, winding sections, so it's best for confident riders.
• Taxi/Ride-hailing (Grab/Be/Xanh SM): A hassle-free and affordable option. You can easily book a car or motorbike taxi using the mobile app from anywhere in the city. Simply input "Linh Ung Pagoda Son Tra" as your destination.
• Private car/Tour: Ideal for families, large groups, or those who prefer comfort. You can hire a private car with a driver for a half-day or full-day tour of the peninsula, which often includes the pagoda and other viewpoints.

Nearby attractions to the Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula

Combine your visit with other incredible sights on and around the Son Tra Peninsula. Here are a few top spots to consider:

• Ban Co Peak: Drive to the highest point on the peninsula for breathtaking 360-degree views of Da Nang and the surrounding sea. This is also a favorite sunrise and sunset spot for photographers and nature lovers.
• Giant Banyan Tree: Visit this legendary, 800-year-old tree with its massive, sprawling root system that creates a mystical, otherworldly atmosphere. The site feels deeply serene and is often associated with local folklore and spiritual beliefs.
• Marble Mountains: Explore this stunning cluster of five limestone and marble hills, home to a network of caves, tunnels, and pagodas just a short drive away. Each mountain represents one of the five elements, adding symbolic meaning to your visit.
• My Khe Beach: After exploring the mountain, head down to relax on the soft white sands of one of Vietnam’s most famous and beautiful beaches. Its gentle waves and long coastline make it ideal for swimming, sunbathing, or a peaceful seaside walk.
• Dragon Bridge: Time your return to the city to catch this iconic bridge breathe fire and water on Saturday and Sunday evenings at 9:00 PM. The spectacular show is especially lively, drawing both locals and visitors to the riverfront area.

Pair your pagoda visit with nearby highlights like Ban Co Peak, Giant Banyan Tree, My Khe Beach, and the iconic Dragon Bridge for a full Son Tra experience

Practical tips for visitors when visiting Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula

When visiting Linh Ung Pagoda or other pagodas in Vietnam, you should ensure a smooth and respectful visit and keep these essential tips in mind:

• Dress code: This is a sacred place of worship, so dress modestly. Ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. Avoid wearing shorts, short skirts, or tank tops.
• Etiquette: Maintain a quiet and respectful demeanor. Refrain from loud conversations, running, or public displays of affection.
• Footwear: The complex is quite large and involves a fair amount of walking, so wear comfortable shoes.
• Sun protection: The pagoda grounds are very exposed to the sun. Bring sun protection items, such as a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen, and stay hydrated with plenty of water.
• Parking: Designated parking areas are available near the entrance for both motorbikes and cars for a small fee.

Dress modestly, stay respectful, wear comfortable shoes, protect yourself from the sun, and use the designated parking to ensure a smooth and respectful visit to pagoda

FAQs about Linh Ung Pagoda in Da Nang

Before planning your visit, it’s important to understand that “Linh Ung Pagoda” does not refer to just one single site in Da Nang.

How many Linh Ung Pagodas are there in Da Nang?

There are three Linh Ung Pagodas in Da Nang, each strategically placed at a location of great spiritual and geographical significance. They form a sacred triangle that is believed to protect the city. The three pagodas are:

• Linh Ung Pagoda on the Son Tra Peninsula (Linh Ung Pagoda Son Tra)
• Linh Ung Pagoda within the Marble Mountains (Non Nuoc Pagoda)
• Linh Ung Pagoda at the top of Ba Na Hills (Linh Ung Pagoda Ba Na)

What makes Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula special compared to the other two in Da Nang?

What makes this pagoda uniquely special is its spectacular location high on the mountain. It is also home to the colossal 67-meter-tall Lady Buddha statue overlooking the sea, along with unparalleled panoramic views of the Da Nang coastline. While the other two are significant, the Son Tra location combines spiritual gravitas with breathtaking natural scenery in a truly unforgettable way. It is the largest and most visually dramatic of the three.

Why do foreign visitors often get confused about Linh Ung Pagoda in Da Nang?

Foreign visitors often get confused because there are three famous pagodas in Da Nang that all share the name "Linh Ung". Each is located in a distinct and famous geographical location, but the identical name can easily cause mix-ups when planning a trip or booking a taxi. It's important to specify which one you intend to visit: the one on Son Tra Peninsula, the one in the Marble Mountains, or the one at Ba Na Hills.

Da Nang has three Linh Ung Pagodas, with the Son Tra site being the largest and most famous, known for its Lady Buddha and coastal views

A visit to Linh Ung Pagoda on Son Tra Peninsula is more than just a sightseeing stop, it’s a moment of calm and reflection amid Da Nang’s most breathtaking natural scenery. With the majestic Lady Buddha overlooking the sea, the pagoda offers a rare harmony of spirituality, culture, and panoramic coastal views. Whether you come for quiet contemplation, cultural discovery, or simply to admire one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Central Vietnam, Linh Ung Pagoda leaves a lasting impression. We hope this guide helps you plan a meaningful visit to this sacred landmark. For more in-depth travel insights and curated experiences in Da Nang and across Vietnam, explore the GTrip blog.