Top 8 Most Famous Pagodas in Vietnam: A Journey Through Culture & Spiritual Serenity

Vietnam is not only a land of breathtaking natural landscapes but also home to a deeply rooted Buddhist culture. Throughout my journey, I visited temples rich in history, architecture, and spirituality — each pagoda telling its own timeless story through statues, carvings, and sacred spaces.

1. One Pillar Pagoda – Hanoi

My spiritual journey began in Hanoi, where the One Pillar Pagoda immediately captured my heart. Perched on a single stone pillar in the middle of a lotus pond, the pagoda symbolizes purity and enlightenment. I arrived on a cool autumn morning, as the sunlight gently shimmered across the water, bringing the pagoda’s reflection to life.

Highlight Experiences: Light incense, admire its lotus-inspired architecture, and stroll around the peaceful pond.

Travel Tip: Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and capture the best light.

Photo Tip: Stand across the pond to photograph the full reflection of the pagoda on the water.

2. Tran Quoc Pagoda – Hanoi

Resting quietly on a small island in West Lake, Tran Quoc is Hanoi’s oldest pagoda. I wandered along its stone pathways, breathing in the scent of incense and the tranquility of this lakeside sanctuary. The red-brick towers and carved Buddha statues blended harmoniously with the calm waters.

Highlight Experiences: Explore ancient Buddha statues and stroll around West Lake.

Travel Tip: Spend 1–2 hours soaking in the peaceful atmosphere.

Photo Tip: Early morning or late afternoon offers the best soft light for photos.

3. Bai Dinh Pagoda – Ninh Binh

Bai Dinh Pagoda left me in awe with its monumental scale and grandeur. Climbing the long stairways, I reached viewpoints overlooking golden-roofed halls, giant Buddha statues, and lush mountains. The combination of nature and architecture made every photograph feel majestic.

Highlight Experiences: See the Great Buddha statues and take the cable car for panoramic views.

Travel Tip: Set aside an entire morning to explore this massive temple complex.

Photo Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture both the pagoda and the surrounding mountains.

4. Thien Mu Pagoda – Hue

In Hue, I couldn’t miss Thien Mu Pagoda — the spiritual symbol of the ancient capital. Set on Ha Khe Hill overlooking the Perfume River, its iconic Phuoc Duyen Tower rises gracefully into the sky. I spent time wandering through the temple garden, feeling the gentle breeze from the river and the calm of centuries past.

Highlight Experiences: Offer incense, admire the Phuoc Duyen Tower, and enjoy the view over the Perfume River.

Travel Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer tourists.

Photo Tip: Capture the pagoda from across the river for a full panoramic view.

5. Perfume Pagoda (Chua Huong) – Hanoi

Perfume Pagoda is not just a temple but an entire complex of caves, mountains, and rivers. I took a boat along the Yen Stream, gliding between limestone peaks while hearing the distant sound of temple bells. The scenery was both serene and mystical — an unforgettable blend of nature and spirituality.

Highlight Experiences: Take a boat trip, hike to the main cave temples, and explore mountain paths.

Travel Tip: Reserve a full day to explore the entire complex.

Photo Tip: Wear comfortable shoes for hiking; morning light is ideal for capturing the mist over the river.

6. Vinh Nghiem Pagoda – Ho Chi Minh City

Vinh Nghiem Pagoda stands out in the heart of bustling Saigon with its harmonious mix of traditional and modern design. I admired the intricate carvings, the serene courtyard, and towering Buddha statues — a peaceful retreat amid the urban chaos.

Highlight Experiences: Observe the pagoda’s architecture and statues of Buddha.

Travel Tip: Spend an hour or two to fully experience the calm environment.

Photo Tip: Capture the entire pagoda from the main walkway for the most balanced composition.

7. Linh Ung Pagoda – Da Nang

Located on Son Tra Peninsula, Linh Ung Pagoda is home to Vietnam’s tallest Lady Buddha statue, gazing over the East Sea. When I arrived in the morning, the mist surrounded the statue, waves echoed below the cliffs, and the entire scene felt divine and powerful.

Highlight Experiences: Admire ocean views from the pagoda terrace and light incense before the Lady Buddha.

Travel Tip: Visit in the early morning for mystical fog and peaceful surroundings.

Photo Tip: Use a wide-angle lens to capture both the statue and the vast sea beyond.

8. Ba Vang Pagoda – Quang Ninh

Perched high on the mountains, Ba Vang Pagoda gleams in vibrant gold, surrounded by forests and mountain air. I climbed the long stairway to the main temple, passing statues and courtyards filled with calm energy. The panoramic view of the temple against the green hills was simply stunning.

Highlight Experiences: Hike up the mountain, pay respect, and photograph the grand temple complex.

Travel Tip: Visit in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the best light.

Photo Tip: Use a tripod for panoramic shots capturing the temple and surrounding mountains.