Long Khanh Pagoda

Long Khanh Pagoda is a majestic Buddhist complex and one of the oldest spiritual sanctuaries in central Vietnam. Located in the heart of Quy Nhon, it has served as the primary religious center of Binh Dinh Province for over 300 years, drawing pilgrims and travelers with its deep history and peaceful energy.

Long Khanh Pagoda. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The architectural ensemble of the pagoda is unique for its layout: the main buildings are arranged in the shape of the Chinese character for "mouth" (口), creating cozy inner courtyards shielded from urban noise. Here, traditional Vietnamese architectural traditions harmoniously blend with South Chinese motifs, evident in the roof decorations and massive wooden doors adorned with gold lacquer.

The main visual centerpiece of the complex is the snow-white 17-meter statue of Amitabha Buddha, rising above a lotus pond. This place is considered a true oasis of tranquility amidst busy city streets, where anyone can connect with centuries-old Buddhist traditions and see priceless relics from the 18th and 19th centuries.

For your convenience, we have collected the current contact details for this spiritual center. You can use this information to plan your route or clarify visiting details on-site.

Below is the basic information regarding the location of the site:

A visit to the pagoda offers a rare opportunity to slow down and enjoy the silence. Be sure to start your walk in the inner courtyard, where the 17-meter Buddha statue stands—its scale and serene expression set a contemplative mood. Walk along the lotus pond and note the intricate roof details decorated with terracotta dragons and phoenixes, which, according to local beliefs, protect this holy site.

Inside the Main Hall (Upper Hall), it is worth lighting incense beneath the giant spirals hanging from the ceiling. Here, you can see exquisite wood carvings and gilded altars. Don't miss the Rear Hall, which houses a massive bronze statue of Shakyamuni weighing over a ton, and the Ancestors' Hall, dedicated to the memory of past masters.

For history buffs, an essential stop is the ancient stupa garden and the famous bronze bell from the early 19th century. If you climb to the temple towers, you will find interesting perspectives on the complex grounds. Long Khanh Pagoda is ideal for meditation, thoughtful observation of rituals, or simply listening to the steady sound of the bell dissolving into the air of Quy Nhon.

Thanks to its central location in Quy Nhon, reaching the pagoda is quite easy. If you are staying at one of the hotels in the city center or near the beach, a walk or a short bicycle ride will take 5 to 15 minutes. You can also always use motorcycle taxi services or book a ride through the Grab app.

For travelers arriving from Phu Cat Airport, located about 30 kilometers from the city, a taxi is the optimal option. The trip takes about 20–30 minutes and costs approximately 300,000 Vietnamese Dong. Shuttle buses also run between the airport and the city center.

If you are planning a visit from other regions like Hoi An or Nha Trang, it is most convenient to use intercity buses or the train to Quy Nhon station. Upon arrival at the station, the pagoda is in close proximity, making it an excellent starting point for exploring the city.

The history of Long Khanh Pagoda began over three centuries ago, between 1700 and 1715. It is believed to have been founded by the Chinese Buddhist master Duc Son, who arrived in the Binh Dinh region to spread the teachings of Dharma. Since then, this site has served as a vital spiritual beacon for the local community and seafarers.

Over the centuries, the pagoda has survived changing imperial dynasties and colonial eras. Although the original 18th-century architecture was largely lost due to time and historical events, extensive renovations carried out in the mid-20th century (from 1956 to 1972) restored the majestic appearance of the complex we see today.

One of the pagoda's most precious treasures is the "Thai Binh Hong Chung" bronze bell, cast in 1805 during the reign of Emperor Gia Long. The inscriptions on it serve as invaluable historical evidence confirming the antiquity of this sacred site. A silver seal from 1813, belonging to the temple's abbots, is also preserved here.

Today, the pagoda is recognized as one of the two oldest in Binh Dinh Province. It not only demonstrates the resilience of the Buddhist faith but also reflects the close cultural and trade ties between coastal Quy Nhon and South China, which is clearly evident in its unique architectural style.

To leisurely explore the grounds of Long Khanh Pagoda, visit the main halls, and take commemorative photos, most visitors need 1 to 2 hours. This is sufficient time to experience the temple's tranquil atmosphere and examine the details of the ancient relics.

If you plan to spend time in meditation or wish to speak with the monks (should the opportunity arise), you may want to set aside a bit more time. A visit to the pagoda can easily be combined with a stroll along the waterfront or a visit to nearby Quy Nhon parks, as the tour is not physically demanding.

The exact opening hours of Long Khanh Pagoda may vary depending on the religious calendar and holidays. Generally, the temple doors are open to visitors from early morning until sunset, which is typical for most Buddhist sanctuaries in Vietnam.

We recommend planning your visit for the morning hours when the pagoda is particularly quiet and cool. To get the most up-to-date information on service times or potential restrictions, it is worth checking official sources or asking a guide directly before your trip.

Exploring the surroundings of Long Khanh Pagoda will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and see local life off the beaten path. There are many interesting locations nearby—from historical monuments to cozy parks and modern hotels.

A walk through the nearby blocks will reveal authentic Quy Nhon with its small markets and picturesque lakes. Here is a list of sites within walking or driving distance: