1. Overview of Van Duc Pagoda
Address: 2B Village, Cam Ha Commune, Hoi An City, Quang Nam Province Opening hours: 8 AM – 7 PM (Everyday)
Van Duc Pagoda (meaning “Ten Thousand Virtues”) is one of Hoi An largest and oldest Buddhist temples. Built in the late 17th century by Zen master Minh Luong, it has served as a center for meditation and Buddhist teachings. Here, many of his disciples have greatly contributed to Quang Nam Buddhism, including Buddha Tuyet-Tuong Quang, Buddha Hien-Hoa Nghiem, and Buddha Tuong-Duc Lien. With over 33 generations of abbots and 4 restorations, Van Duc Pagoda has preserved its architectural charm. Today, it remains a testament to Quang Nam’s rich Buddhist heritage. 2. Highlights of Van Duc Pagoda
2.1. The unique architecture of Van Duc Pagoda
Van Duc Pagoda is an icon of traditional East Asian design, most particularly Hoi An ancient architecture. Located on the right bank of the De Vong River, it is around 6 hectares wide and surrounded by many willow trees and fruit trees. The pagoda features a U-shaped layout with interconnected sections, a three-door temple gate, and curved tiled roofs with complex details of dragons, lions, turtles, and phoenixes.2.2. Valuable artifacts inside Van Duc Pagoda
Most notably, Van Duc Pagoda houses 115 wooden printing blocks with ancient Buddhist texts, some even dating back to the Le Dynasty in 1482. The pagoda is also the house to 22 Buddhist statues of Amitabha, Shakyamuni, and Maitreya Buddhas; a large bronze bell of 1.2 meters tall with dragon-shaped handles, and 4 intricate dragon and phoenix carvings on wood and stones. Additionally, a collection of Ming and Qing dynasty ceramics, including plates, cups, incense burners, and vases are included in the pagoda’s values.3. Cultural significance of Van Duc Pagoda
Van Duc Pagoda is where locals pray to Buddhist deities, especially Amitabha Buddha, Dia Tang Bodhisattva, and Avalokitecvara. Visitors came here looking to pay their respects, get fortunes told, or simply marvel at the well-preserved architecture. As a center for Buddhist practice, it also hosts significant annual festivals such as Buddha’s Birthday and Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva’s Day. On full moons and auspicious celebrations, hundreds of monks even weave their way down to the river, releasing paper lanterns and chanting prayers. Check out other iconic Vietnamese temples here!
4. Travel guide to Van Duc Pagoda in Hoi An
4.1. How to get there
- From Bang An Beach: If you are traveling north to the beach on Hai Ba Trung, just before the last bridge, you will see the islet with Tra Que Vegetable Village. Head west from the village for 1.8 kilometers.
- From Hoi An Stadium: Travel 1.8 kilometers west on Le Hong Phong Street, then take a dirt road for 2 kilometers.
- From Hoi An Ancient Town: To reach Van Duc Pagoda from Hoi An Ancient Town, drive about 5 km. Start on Nguyen Phuc Tan Street, go straight to Cao Hong Lanh Street, and then turn onto Hung Vuong Street. Continue to Nguyen Tat Thanh Street (DT607), then take Huynh Thuc Khang Street. Follow Trang Keo 1 Street, then turn onto Cam Ha Street.
4.2. When to visit
The best time to visit Van Duc Pagoda is in the evening on full moons of each month. You should also visit major Buddhist sacrificial holidays such as Buddha’s Birthday (April 15); Avalokiteśvara (June 19); Vu Lan announces filial piety (July 15); and the Buddha attained enlightenment (December 12). These occasions feature vibrant rituals and lantern releases, offering a unique cultural experience.4.3. Travel tips
- Dress appropriately: Wear modest clothing (that covers your shoulders and knees) as a sign of respect to the visitors. Remove your shoes before entering every sacred area.
- Be quiet: Speak softly and avoid making loud noises. Feel free to take out your camera or phone but be mindful of surrounding visitors as well.
- Transportation: Travel by bike is advisory as you can also enjoy the view of the river. You can also call for taxis or ride-hailing services for more convenient options.