Located 20 kilometers from downtown Hai Phong, Long Hoa Pagoda is a revered spiritual and cultural destination in An Lao District.

Known for its majestic Buddhist statues, peaceful surroundings, and impressive traditional architecture, the pagoda attracts thousands of visitors each year, especially during the Lunar New Year festival.

A historic pagoda with deep cultural significance

According to historical records, Long Hoa Pagoda was originally built in the 11th century during the Ly Dynasty. The pagoda is situated atop Nui Voi Mountain, a scenic and sacred site that is part of the Nui Voi historical and cultural complex.

Over the centuries, natural wear and historical events led to the pagoda’s deterioration. In 2017, an extensive restoration project was launched, transforming Long Hoa Pagoda into a sprawling 7.5-hectare spiritual complex, blending ancient Buddhist traditions with modern architectural enhancements.

A masterpiece of Buddhist architecture

Long Hoa Pagoda comprises 40 intricately designed structures, built using precious ironwood and modern materials, reflecting Vietnam’s classical Buddhist architectural style.

Key landmarks within the pagoda complex include:

Central Axis: Houses the Buddha Stupa, Main Hall, Upper Pagoda, Lower Pagoda, and the Three-Entrance Gate.

Left Wing: Features the Founders’ Hall and the Garden of Vietnamese Zen Masters.

Right Wing: Includes the Monks’ Quarters and Guest House.

Summit Area: Home to the Great Maitreya Buddha Statue and other auxiliary structures.

The three-story bell and drum tower further enhances the grandeur of the pagoda, offering visitors a glimpse into Vietnamese Buddhist traditions.

Home to Hai Phong’s largest bronze Buddha statue

Among Long Hoa Pagoda’s most revered treasures is the massive 15-ton bronze statue of Shakyamuni Buddha, officially recognized as the largest bronze Buddha in Hai Phong.

The pagoda also houses a 5.2-meter-tall cement statue of King-Monk Tran Nhan Tong, a revered Vietnamese Buddhist leader.

Inside the Main Hall, devotees can pay homage to the Seven Buddhas of the Past, while outside, the Maitreya Buddha statue on Nui Voi’s peak stands as a symbol of wisdom, compassion, and enlightenment.

Beyond its architectural beauty, Long Hoa Pagoda is cherished for its peaceful and pristine atmosphere. Visitors are drawn not only to its sacred shrines but also to its unspoiled natural surroundings, where one can meditate, pray, and find inner peace.

Notably, Long Hoa Pagoda maintains a strict policy against commercial activities. Unlike many other spiritual sites, there are no vendors or disruptive services, ensuring that the temple remains a clean, serene sanctuary for all who visit.

Part of the larger Nui Voi historical complex

Visitors to Long Hoa Pagoda can explore additional cultural and historical sites within the Nui Voi complex, including:

Le Chan Temple – Dedicated to the legendary female general Le Chan, a hero of the Hai Ba Trung Rebellion.

Thanh Uy Cave – A historical wartime site that hosted the Hai Phong Party Congress (1968-1971).

Hong Voi Cave – A natural cave formation with ancient folklore significance.

Chi Lai Pagoda and Temple – Another revered Buddhist and cultural site.

Gia Vi Cave & Mat Hoc Cave – Notable landmarks within the Nui Voi area.

These sites offer visitors a deeper historical and cultural experience, making Long Hoa Pagoda a gateway to Hai Phong’s rich heritage.

Thao Trinh