The Lady Buddha statue is one of Da Nang's most famous landmarks and a symbol of the city. It is located within the Linh Ung Pagoda on the picturesque Son Tra Peninsula, approximately 10 kilometers from downtown Da Nang. It offers panoramic views of the coastline, the South China Sea, and the city skyline.
The tallest statue of its kind in Vietnam
The statue stands 67 meters tall , making it one of the tallest statues of the Bodhisattva Guanyin (Quan Am) in Vietnam. It stands on a 35-meter lotus-shaped base , making it easily visible from virtually anywhere along the Da Nang coast.
Despite its popular tourist name, Lady Buddha , the statue depicts the Bodhisattva of Mercy, Guanyin (Kuan Am) , a symbol of compassion, mercy and protection.
History of construction
Construction of the Linh Ung Pagoda began in 2004, and the complex's grand opening took place in 2010. According to local legend, several centuries ago, fishermen found a Buddha statue on the shore, washed up on the sandy beach. It was believed that this calmed the sea and brought good luck to the fishermen. In memory of this event, the site was named Bai But ("Land of Buddha"), and a modern pagoda was later built there.
What's inside the statue?
Not everyone knows that the statue is hollow. Inside, there are 12 levels containing small prayer halls and statues of Bodhisattva Guanyin in various forms. This makes the Lady Buddha not only a monument but also a functioning religious structure.
Linh Ung Pagoda Grounds
Most tourists come not only for the statue itself, but also to stroll around the complex.
Here you can see:
- main temple of the pagoda;
- the alley of eighteen arhats;
- well-kept gardens and courtyards;
- observation decks with views of the sea and the city;
- numerous statues and traditional elements of Buddhist architecture.
The area has a tranquil atmosphere, so not only tourists but also local residents come here for prayer and relaxation.
Best time to visit
The most beautiful time to visit is early morning or sunset.
In the morning, there are fewer people, it's cooler, and the conditions are better for photography. In the evening, you can watch the sun set behind the city and the Da Nang coastline gradually light up.
Son Tra Peninsula can get quite hot during the day, so it's recommended to bring water, a hat, and sunscreen.
Helpful information
Entrance: free.
Visiting hours: the complex is open daily.
When visiting the pagoda, it is recommended to wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees, as it is a functioning Buddhist temple.
Getting there
The most convenient way to get to Lady Buddha is:
- on a bike;
- by car;
- by taxi or Grab;
- as part of a tour of the Son Tra Peninsula.
Many travelers combine a visit to the pagoda with a trip around the peninsula, where they can see observation decks, ancient trees, beaches, and, if they're lucky, rare red-legged ducs—monkeys that live only in a few areas of Vietnam.
Why you should visit Lady Buddha
Even if you're not interested in Buddhism, Lady Buddha remains one of Da Nang's main attractions. This place combines impressive architecture, beautiful sea views, a tranquil atmosphere, and a rich history. It's where many people begin their exploration of the city, and photographs of the snow-white statue against the sea have long become one of Da Nang's signature landmarks.
