Van Duc Pagoda: The ultimate guide for first-time visitors

Contents

Van Duc Pagoda in Hoi An features majestic architecture (Source: Collected)

1. Where is Van Duc Pagoda?

• Address: Dong Na Village, Cam Ha Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province

Van Duc Pagoda stands on a vast plot along the southern bank of the Co Co River. This temple is a significant site of the Lam Te Chuc Thanh Zen sect in central Hoi An. If you are departing from Hoi An Ancient Town, make your way to Hung Vuong Street. Go for about 400 meters then turn right onto Le Hong Phong Street. Go for about 1.3 kilometers then turn left onto Ton Duc Thang Street. Go for about 400 meters then turn right onto Trang Keo 1 Street. Go to the end of the street then turn left. Go for about 200 meters then turn left again, and you will see Van Duc Pagoda. The easiest way to get there is renting a motorbike.

2. History of Van Duc Pagoda

Van Duc Pagoda was established by Zen master Minh Luong, who was born in 1626 in China. He settled in Hoi An in the late 17th century and began with a small hermitage in Dong Na Village. With support from a devotee, he expanded it into a larger temple called Lang Tho Tu, which was later renamed Van Duc Pagoda. Minh Luong focused on meditation and taught Buddhist teachings to his disciples, contributing significantly to Buddhism in Quang Nam. The pagoda has undergone several renovations to preserve its architectural beauty and cultural significance.

Van Duc Pagoda boasts an enduring history (Source: Collected)

3. Highlights of Van Duc Pagoda

Van Duc Pagoda is known for its beautiful architecture, peaceful surroundings, and cultural significance, making it a must-see attraction for anyone exploring Hoi An.

3.1. Unique architecture

Despite numerous renovations, Van Duc Pagoda still maintains its classical architecture. The gate, adorned with four pillars, displays Chinese couplets. The path to the gate is paved with stone and cement, bordered by flower gardens. The tiled roofs curve gracefully with decorative motifs such as dragons, lions, turtles, and phoenixes, showcasing the artistic talent of local craftsmen across generations. The pagoda’s altar features statues of Amitabha Buddha, Shakyamuni Buddha, and Maitreya Buddha, which were mostly crafted from composite materials and gilded with golden leaves.

3.2. Priceless artifacts

Van Duc Pagoda houses many invaluable artifacts like wooden inscriptions, statues, bells, couplets, and lacquered boards. Within the ancestral hall, you will find precious relics such as Zen master Minh Luong’s alms bowl, master Pho Triem’s robe, a royal decree tablet from King Minh Mang to Zen master Toan Duc Hoang Tong, and hundreds of engraved wooden boards. 

Some significant artifacts displayed at the pagoda include:

• 22 statues of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and guardian deities.
• A large bronze bell of 1.2 meters tall.
• 4 dragon-shaped incense burners crafted from wood and stone.
• Several Chinese porcelain items such as plates, tea cups, incense burners, and flower vases.

Van Duc Pagoda has been recognized as a national heritage site (Source: Collected)

3.3. Cultural activities

Just like other pagodas, Van Duc Pagoda celebrates significant Buddhist festivals annually, including Buddha’s Day, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva’s Day, Ullambana Festival, and Buddha’s Enlightenment Day. Moreover, worshippers also hold ceremonies to honor Zen master Minh Luong and Venerable Hanh Thien at the pagoda.

4. Notes for visiting Van Duc Pagoda

For a visit to the pagoda, you should consider these tips:

• Dress appropriately and maintain a quiet voice inside the pagoda.
• Photography and filming are prohibited near the entrance.
• Don’t take items from the pagoda without permission.
• Show respect in front of the Buddha statues.

Van Duc Pagoda stands out for its impressive architecture as well as cultural significance. Here, visitors can enjoy a serene space for meditation amidst beautifully landscaped gardens. It offers a peaceful escape from the hectic city life.

If your schedule allows, take your time to explore other spiritual sites in Hoi An, such as Quan Cong Temple, Japanese Bridge, Ba Mu Temple, Hai Tang Pagoda, Phap Bao Pagoda, and Bao Thang Pagoda. Each site offers a unique glimpse into the cultural tapestry of this ancient town, enriching the journey with profound insights.

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