Top 10 Famous Cultural and Spiritual Tourist Spots in Vung Tau

Nirvana Vihara (also known as the 'Reclining Buddha Temple') represents the highest level of Buddhist teachings. The construction of the temple began in 1969 and was completed in 1974, funded entirely by donations from monks and devotees, under the guidance of Venerable Thich Thien Hue.

Covering an area of 10,000m², the temple is located on the slopes of Small Mountain in Vung Tau, overlooking the sea. The architectural design is unique and culturally significant, drawing thousands of visitors each year. The entrance features a 21-meter high pagoda with 42 steps, each symbolizing a Buddhist scripture from the 2nd century. Built with red-yellow ceramic tiles, the pagoda reaches skyward, topped with three lotus buds pointing in different directions. Below the pagoda stands a Four Sacred Beasts incense burner (Dragon, Unicorn, Turtle, Phoenix).

The gate is intricately carved with images of lions and the four characters 'Nirvana Vihara'. On either side of the gate, statues of 'Good Deity' and 'Evil Deity' stand, symbolizing respect and reverence at the temple's entrance. Upon entering, visitors are welcomed by a tranquil garden representing the Buddha's Nirvana. The main hall houses a 12-meter-long Reclining Buddha statue, representing the 'Twelve Links of Dependent Origination', set 2.5 meters high. Previously, a statue of one of the Buddha's disciples witnessing His entry into Nirvana was placed here. Another Four Sacred Beasts incense burner is placed before the main hall, a gift crafted over two years by an artisan from Ben Tre in 1971. Flanking this are two 5-meter towers, with the right tower housing the Medicine Buddha and the left one the Amitabha Buddha. The rear hall is dedicated to the Buddha Shakyamuni and the ancestors who spread Buddhism. On the second floor of the rear hall stands a 12-meter-long Boat of Wisdom, symbolizing the journey to liberation, guiding souls to eternal peace. Passing the Boat of Wisdom, visitors encounter a statue of Avalokiteshvara Bodhisattva, compassionately rescuing beings from suffering.

The third-floor courtyard features a bell tower with a dragon-carved roof and houses a massive bell weighing tons, standing 2.8 meters tall.

Address: Ward 2, Vung Tau City, Ba Ria - Vung Tau

The Shakyamuni Buddha Monument is well-known not only as a large-scale Buddhist architectural complex but also as a popular tourist and spiritual site that attracts many visitors to Vung Tau city.

The monument is likened to a crescent moon, divided into three levels with a height ranging from 3 to 9 meters above sea level. Level 1 features the main entrance and flower garden. Level 2 includes a resting area and a section for traditional exhibitions. Level 3 is home to the Zen Lam Temple and Buddha relics. The site also boasts several other architectural and sculptural works, including numerous statues, most notably the Kim Phat To statue, which stands over 10 meters tall, and 16 relics of the Buddha.

Covering an area of over 5 hectares, the Shakyamuni Buddha Monument recreates the life story of the Buddha, blending it harmoniously with the surrounding serene natural beauty. This combination has made the monument a beloved landmark, rich in cultural, historical, and religious significance in Vietnam.

In 1957, Lê Quang Vinh, a former French colonial official, built a small temple at the foot of Big Mountain to meditate and practice. This temple, named Zen Lam Temple, became a center for spiritual practice. In 1962, the Vietnam Buddhist Church recognized the temple's prime location in a tranquil and sacred environment and undertook renovations to transform it into the Shakyamuni Buddha Monument. In 1989, the monument was officially recognized as a national heritage site by the Ministry of Culture and Information.

Address: 608 Tran Phu Street, Ward 5, Vung Tau City, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province.

In Vung Tau, there is a temple dedicated to honoring General Tran Hung Dao. This reflects the widespread reverence for him across Vietnam, not only as a brilliant military leader but also as a revered saint in the hearts of the Vietnamese people.

The Temple of Saint Tran Hung Dao is a prominent cultural and spiritual landmark, famous not just in Vung Tau but across many regions of the country. People honor Tran Hung Dao not only for his military prowess but also for his sanctity, as he is regarded as a saint in the collective consciousness of the Vietnamese people.

The annual death anniversary of Saint Tran Hung Dao is held on the 20th day of the 8th lunar month. Over time, this memorial has grown beyond the local community to become a national festival, attracting visitors from all parts of Vietnam. Additionally, the festival serves as an opportunity to educate future generations about patriotism and national pride.

Address: 68 Ha Long, Ward 2, Vung Tau City, Ba Ria - Vung Tau

Thang Tam Temple in Vung Tau is dedicated to three leaders of the Phuoc Thang community, established to protect Vietnamese merchant ships as decreed by King Gia Long. This location has witnessed numerous struggles for independence by the people of Phuoc Thang and stands as a significant historical site for the Vietnamese nation.

The Thang Tam Temple complex also includes the Nam Hai Shrine and the Miếu Bà Ngũ Hành, both of which hold great historical value for the nation. This has led the local population to strongly believe in the sacredness of the site, especially those involved in fishing, who often visit the temple to pray for safety and good fortune for themselves and their families. Originally built during the reign of King Minh Mang, the temple was simple, a thatched hut. It wasn't until 1835 that the temple began to be tiled, and by 1965, it underwent full restoration, becoming the sturdy structure we see today. In 1991, the Thang Tam Temple was officially recognized as a national cultural heritage site by the Ministry of Culture and Information.

The architecture, with its ancient design and intricate carvings on beams, rafters, and columns, will surely impress visitors, particularly foreign tourists. The roofs of the temples dedicated to the forefathers and the Miếu Bà Ngũ Hành are covered with yin-yang tiles, featuring the painstakingly crafted symbol of two dragons bowing to the moon. The offerings and interior of the temple are adorned with gold leaf, creating a magnificent display. Notably, the Nam Hai Shrine displays a gigantic whale skeleton, over 12 meters long, discovered more than 100 years ago.

On holidays, full moon days, or before important events, locals visit the temple to offer prayers and incense for good luck, especially before setting sail. During major festivals, such as the Cầu An (from the 17th to the 20th of the second lunar month), Nghinh Ông Festival (from the 16th to the 18th of the eighth lunar month), and the Miếu Bà Festival (from the 16th to the 18th of the tenth lunar month), the temple attracts large crowds of tourists. During these times, pilgrims and tourists alike visit Miếu Bà, participating in unique rituals such as waiting for the tide to recede and walking barefoot on the rocks, making for an unforgettable experience and prayer for peace.

Address: 77A Hoàng Hoa Thám Street, Thang Tam Ward, Vung Tau City, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province.

The Quan Am Nam Hai Pagoda sits quietly on Tran Phu Street, overlooking the soothing waves of Bai Dau. A striking feature of the pagoda is the 16-meter tall statue of the Bodhisattva Quan Am standing on a white lotus pedestal. Although the pagoda was only built in 1976, it has become a prominent landmark in the area due to this grand statue.

The statue depicts a compassionate, virtuous woman, her face directed towards the sea, holding the sacred water jug (Cam Lo) to offer mercy to all beings. Every day, the pagoda attracts many visitors, especially on the 6th of June, the 6th of September, and the full moon of the seventh lunar month. From the base of the Quan Am statue, visitors can admire the breathtaking view of Bai Dau's lush greenery, with waves crashing along the shore. The main hall of Quan Am Pagoda is a large structure, 25 meters wide, 13 meters high, and 23 meters deep. Its simple yet beautiful architecture features walls and columns carved with Chinese characters, intricate bas-reliefs, and colorful depictions of Buddha and bodhisattvas.

If you ever visit Ba Ria - Vung Tau, make sure to visit the Quan Am Nam Hai Pagoda for a peaceful retreat, to refresh your mind and spirit, and to explore the local cultural and traditional beauty of the area.

Address: 112 Ha Long Street, Ward 2, Vung Tau City, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province

Ba Trao Hamlet, Long Son Island Commune, Vung Tau City, Ba Ria - Vung Tau Province, has long been famous for the historical site of the Great House, also known as Mr. Tran's Temple. One unique feature of this village is that all the men wear their hair long and tied up on top of their heads, and walk barefoot—an old custom introduced by the founder of this area.

The entire area covers about 2 hectares, with the worship hall and the long houses spanning more than 2,000 square meters. In addition to the worship area, there are several 50-meter-long wooden houses with tile roofs, all featuring traditional architectural styles. These buildings were constructed between 1900 and 1929. Thanks to its unique design, the site has long been a popular tourist attraction for visitors from near and far. The people of Long Son are proud of their heritage. Another unique aspect is that despite attracting many visitors, there are no ticket sales or donation boxes—common in many other religious or spiritual sites. Visitors who arrive during mealtime are often invited to join the locals for a meal, without having to go to a restaurant.

Despite being revered by many generations, Mr. Tran's Temple does not have a resident monk. The temple is cared for by 72-year-old Mrs. Le Thi Kiem, the granddaughter of the founder who built the long houses. Mrs. Kiem shared: “On normal days, we have between 150 to 500 visitors; during peak seasons or holidays, the number can reach thousands. Some come to explore the cultural significance of the site, while others come to pray or seek blessings according to their beliefs.”

Address: East slope of Nui Nua, Long Son Island Commune, Vung Tau City

Located just a short 10-15 minute walk from the mainland, Hon Ba Island offers a peaceful escape, surrounded by the soothing waves and breezes of the sea. Lush with a variety of trees, the island exudes a rare calmness, making it an ideal destination for nature lovers. One of the key attractions here is the Hon Ba Temple.

Hon Ba Temple was constructed in the late 19th century by Hồ Quang Minh, a man from central Vietnam. During the French colonial period, a French officer fired three shots at the temple, but only one hit the corner, which led locals to nickname it 'Three Bullet Temple'. The officer later died from an accident with his weapon, and the French subsequently referred to the temple as 'Archinard Temple'.

In 1971, the temple was restored by local residents from Tra Vinh. During the revolutionary period, Hon Ba Temple became a secret meeting point for resistance fighters. Today, a tunnel inside the temple stands as a historical reminder of the nationalist struggle during the war for independence.

Hon Ba Temple is an important spiritual destination in Vung Tau. Visitors can learn about local religious practices, admire the architecture, and immerse themselves in the island’s natural beauty.

Address: Dốc Nghinh Phong, Thùy Vân, Ward 2, Vung Tau City

The Christ the King Statue, also known as the Outstretched Christ, is one of Vung Tau's most famous landmarks, attracting numerous visitors. Situated at the summit of Small Mountain in Vung Tau city, the statue was completed in 1974. Standing 32 meters tall with arms outstretched at 18.3 meters, it sits 170 meters above sea level, offering breathtaking views of the ocean. Inside the statue, visitors can climb 133 steps that lead all the way up to the outstretched arms. From this vantage point, tourists can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The Christ the King Statue is often compared to the larger Christ the Redeemer statue in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil – one of the largest statues in Asia.

This majestic landmark has become a major attraction in Vung Tau, drawing visitors not only to admire its grandeur but also to take in the sweeping views of the city from above. Perched atop Small Mountain, the Christ the King Statue stands tall and strong, its arms wide open as if embracing humanity. The figure’s serene expression and gentle demeanor seem to offer protection and comfort to all who visit. Though made of reinforced concrete, the statue’s design is full of intricate details – from the pose to the facial expression, and even the flowing robes – all crafted with remarkable artistic flair.

To reach the top and marvel at the statue, visitors must climb nearly 800 steps, flanked by vibrant flowers and shaded by trees. This climb is a rewarding challenge for those with faith and a love for scenic beauty.

Address: 01, Ba Ria - Vung Tau

The Statue of Our Lady of Vung Tau, located on Mount Tuong Ky, is a grand complex of religious structures and a statue of the Virgin Mary facing Bai Dau Beach. The architectural ensemble includes several religious sites such as the 14 Stations of the Cross, a shrine, a stone chapel, and souvenir shops. The statue of Our Lady holding the Baby Jesus was built in 1992. Standing at 25 meters tall and weighing nearly 500 tons, it is a prominent landmark in the area. Pilgrims typically follow the path leading up to Mount Lon to admire the breathtaking views of the sea and the city of Vung Tau.

Against the green backdrop of the mountains, the statue of Our Lady stands with her arms lovingly lifted, holding the Infant Jesus as if offering Him to all who seek her blessing. Facing the expansive sea, it feels as though the Mother and Child are sending waves of love and compassion to humanity. The statue reaches 32 meters in height and stands at an elevation of 60 meters above sea level. It was inaugurated on December 31, 1994.

The Traditional Chapel, which honors the Vietnamese Martyrs, was originally a stone church located on the mountainside. It holds the relics of 71 Vietnamese Martyrs. The chapel is continuously attended by priests, nuns, and laypeople who pray and worship the Holy Eucharist. In front of the chapel, there is a 3-meter tall monument dedicated to the Vietnamese Martyrs.

The Sanctuary of Our Lady of Bai Dau is not only a pilgrimage site but also a place where significant events of the Vietnamese Church are held. The sanctuary receives many pilgrims and tourists each day, who come to seek the grace of Our Lady. Mother Bai Dau – Mother of God, is a place where God’s blessings pour abundantly through the loving hands of the Mother.

Address: Mount Lon, Vung Tau City, Vietnam

The Quan The Am Bodhisattva Temple, located on the winding road of Mount Lon in Vung Tau, is just 500 meters from Bai Dau Beach. Although this small temple, built in 1976, is modest in size, it is home to a remarkable statue of the White Avalokiteshvara (Quan Am), standing at an impressive 16 meters tall. The statue, made of reinforced concrete, depicts a serene and compassionate woman, facing the sea while holding the sacred water jar (Cam Lo) and standing on a lotus throne. It is a beautiful and important tourist attraction in Vung Tau.

The Statue of Quan Am Bodhisattva is made of cement and steel, featuring a gentle and dignified face. Facing the sea, the statue holds the Cam Lo jar in her hands, symbolizing the distribution of blessings and protection. This temple not only offers stunning architecture but also showcases the exquisite craftsmanship of the sculptors and the graceful, dignified nature of Avalokiteshvara. Visitors often stand beneath the statue, lighting incense and offering prayers for peace, health, and prosperity, hoping to experience inner tranquility. After enduring the ravages of time, the temple was renovated in 1993, and since then, more and more pilgrims and tourists have visited the Quan Am Bodhisattva Temple.

When you visit Vung Tau, after enjoying the vibrant attractions and activities, be sure to visit the Quan Am Bodhisattva Temple to pay your respects and enjoy the serene beauty of this long-standing spiritual site.

Address: Bai Dau, 170 Tran Phu Street, Vung Tau City, Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province