Phuoc Hau Pagoda - Vinh Long

Phuoc Hau Pagoda Vinh Long: The Unique Stone Buddhist Scripture Garden

Phuoc Hau Pagoda Vinh Long, also known as Phuoc Hau Ancient Pagoda, is located in Ngai Tu Commune, Tam Binh District, Vinh Long Province. It is one of the must-visit spiritual destinations in the Mekong Delta, blending historical, cultural, and architectural values ​​in a harmonious way. If you enjoy leisure travel tailored to your personal style, with flexibility and independence, this is undoubtedly an ideal place for those who want to deeply explore Vietnamese Buddhist culture and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere along the scenic Hau River.

The Glorious History of Phuoc Hau Pagoda

The pagoda has a history spanning over a century, first established in the mid-18th century. While not as grand as some of the larger temples, its simple, ancient, and sacred beauty has attracted thousands of worshipers and visitors each year. Initially, the pagoda was a small thatched hut, but due to the dedication of Mr. Le Van Gong, the pagoda was rebuilt in 1894 using wooden beams, yin-yang tiles, and brick flooring. In 1910, the pagoda officially adopted the name Phuoc Hau and became a religious center for the local people. Throughout its history, Phuoc Hau Pagoda also served as a sanctuary for revolutionary leaders during the war and was recognized as a national historical and revolutionary site.

Unique Architecture Blending Eastern and Western Styles

Phuoc Hau Pagoda not only attracts visitors for its history but also for its distinctive architecture. The pagoda is designed in the shape of the Chinese character "mountain", with a view overlooking the Hau River, creating a stunning landscape. The main hall, built in 1962, is a unique fusion of Eastern and Western architectural styles, offering a sacred yet modern atmosphere. Inside the main hall, you will find impressive Buddha statues, including the statue of Buddha Shakyamuni meditating and the statue of Prince Siddhartha (the newborn Buddha). Notably, within the pagoda grounds, there is a stone Buddhist scripture garden — a truly unique feature that visitors should not miss.

The Stone Buddhist Scripture Garden – A Must-See Attraction

One of the most remarkable features of Phuoc Hau Pagoda is its stone Buddhist scripture garden, a stunning creation born from the creativity and perseverance of the pagoda’s monks. The idea for the garden was inspired by a trip the head monk took to Myanmar in 2014, where he was impressed by similar stone scripture gardens. He decided to carve Buddhist scriptures in Vietnamese onto stone. After sourcing materials and consulting with experts, the stone scripture garden was completed, featuring three main sections: the "Dhammapada" garden, the "Amitabha" garden, and the "Bac Truyen Trich Diem" garden.

The "Dhammapada" garden consists of 213 stone tablets arranged in the shape of eight Bodhi leaves, symbolizing the Noble Eightfold Path, with 423 scriptures engraved on both sides of the stones. The "Amitabha" garden contains 31 stone tablets shaped like the letter "S", each representing the North, Central, and South regions of Vietnam, forming the shape of the country’s map. The "Bac Truyen Trich Diem" garden features 15 stone steles inscribed with Buddhist teachings. This is an ideal spot for taking photos and learning more about Buddhist teachings. The combination of the lush natural surroundings, serene space, and the carved scriptures on stone creates a perfect spiritual scene.

How to Get to Phuoc Hau Pagoda

Located near the Hau River, you can easily reach Phuoc Hau Pagoda by both water and land. If you choose to travel by boat, you will experience the peaceful sensation of drifting along the river while enjoying the fresh, open air. The boat fare to the pagoda is approximately 300,000 VND per trip. If you prefer an independent journey, you can take a motorbike or bus from Ho Chi Minh City via National Route 1A, then turn onto National Route 54 to reach the pagoda.

Phuoc Hau Pagoda: An Ideal Destination for Travelers

With its blend of history, culture, and nature, Phuoc Hau Pagoda in Vinh Long is the perfect destination for those who enjoy flexible, self-guided travel that reflects their personal style. If you are looking for a place to explore on your own terms, immerse yourself in peaceful surroundings, and discover rich historical and cultural values, then Phuoc Hau Pagoda is an excellent choice. It offers the opportunity not only to take beautiful photos but also to reflect on deep life lessons through Buddhist scriptures.

Phuoc Hau Pagoda is not only a place of worship but also an ideal destination for those who love to explore and learn about the history and culture of Buddhism. Visit and experience the peaceful, tranquil atmosphere of one of the most ancient and sacred pagodas in Vinh Long!