Top 15 Must-Visit Beautiful and Sacred Temples in Lang Son

Thành Pagoda, also known as Diên Khánh Temple (meaning the accumulation of good deeds for the benefit of future generations), is an ancient and majestic pagoda with religious architectural features that blend both domestic and foreign influences. It was originally built in the 15th century, known as Hương Lâm Pagoda and located in the Ôn District. In 1796, it was renovated and renamed Diên Khánh Pagoda. In 1993, it was recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Landmark. Legend has it that in the past, whenever envoys from Vietnam and China passed through, they would stop at the pagoda to offer incense and pray for peace before continuing their diplomatic missions across the river. In late 2007, Thành Pagoda was honored with the Guinness World Record for having the most solid copper statues in Vietnam, with a total of 53 statues, all skillfully carved to perfection, adding to the grandeur and warmth of the main hall.

Thành Pagoda is currently the headquarters of Buddhism in Lang Son Province. Not only is it renowned for its stunning religious architecture, but it is also a place for numerous activities that strengthen the connection between spirituality and everyday life. Every year, during the Lunar New Year, Thành Pagoda holds a ceremony where thousands of young Buddhist practitioners gather to chant prayers for blessings and peace. According to the temple's records, over 5,000 young practitioners participate. When visiting the pagoda, you'll notice a large bell weighing 2,100 kg hanging at the main entrance, symbolizing the hope for prosperity and peace for Vietnam in the 21st century. The bell's deep, resonant sound can be heard over a distance of several kilometers. Anyone fortunate enough to hear the bell toll at dusk, with the mist rising over the serene Ky Cung River, will experience a profound sense of tranquility. Inside the temple, you'll find a towering 9-meter-high wooden pillar made from precious ironwood, resting on large stone slabs.

Address: Chi Lang Ward, Lang Son City, Lang Son Province.

Located in Vĩnh Trại Ward, on the northern bank of the Ky Cung River, Kỳ Cùng Temple is considered a sacred site originally dedicated to the river god Giao Long, whose responsibility was to ensure favorable weather and calm seas throughout the year. However, over time, the temple came to honor General Tuần Tranh. Legend has it that Tuần Tranh was a military officer during the Trần Dynasty, assigned to Lang Son to defend the northern border. The temple's history is tied to a tragic story about General Tuần Tranh, who, after suffering a military defeat and losing many soldiers, was falsely accused of misconduct. To prove his innocence, he tragically threw himself into the Ky Cung River. Kỳ Cùng Temple has been recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Landmark, attracting many visitors from across the country for both sightseeing and religious ceremonies.

The temple features the Kỳ Cùng Stone Wharf, one of Lang Son's eight scenic spots, famously known as 'Kỳ Cùng Thạch Độ' in historical texts by Ngô Thì Sỹ. The reason for this name lies in the fact that in ancient times, all official delegations traveling between Vietnam and China would pass through this area. The river was often crowded with boats, while both banks were bustling with people, soldiers, and officials. The Ky Cung River in this section has large rocks scattered throughout the water, creating waves that crash against the stones, creating a spectacular sight of foamy waves that ebb and flow with the tides. It is said that Vietnamese envoys, on their diplomatic missions to China, would always stop at the stone wharf to offer incense at the temple, praying for safe travels and successful missions.

Address: Vĩnh Trại Ward, Lang Son City, Lang Son Province.

Tien Temple, often referred to as Song Tien Temple, is located on Hoang Hoa Tham Street, Chi Lang Ward, Lang Son City, Lang Son Province. It is situated on the side of Mount Dai Tuong (up 64 steps), a mountain resembling a lying elephant to the south of Lang Son town, about 500 meters from Kỳ Cùng Bridge on the road to Mai Pha. The legend of the temple revolves around the story of the God of Mount Tien who left a footprint in the stone, turning it into the Tien Well with clear water used by locals during times of drought. Another legend tells of two immortals playing chess until dawn without returning to the heavens, eventually turning to stone. The temple is inside a cave, with the main shrine dedicated to the Buddha and Bodhisattvas. The right shrine honors the national hero Tran Hung Dao, while the left shrine is dedicated to the Holy Mother. The cave also preserves a stone tablet written by Ngo Thi Si, recording the “Trấn doanh bát cảnh” (Eight Scenic Wonders of Lang Son).

Tien Temple enshrines the Buddha, the Holy Mother, and the Holy Tran, following the architectural style of “Buddha in front, Holy in the back,” with the main hall dedicated to Buddha and the inner sanctum dedicated to the Holy Mother and the Holy Tran. The temple also holds an extensive collection of stone inscriptions, including the “Trấn doanh bát cảnh,” composed by Ngo Thi Si, which praises the natural beauty of Lang Son. Every year, the temple holds a festival on the 18th day of the first lunar month, coinciding with other local festivals like the one at Nhị Thanh Temple and Tam Giáo Temple (from the 15th to 17th of the first lunar month) and Tam Thanh Temple (on the 15th). Behind Mount Voi, on a broad stone platform, lies the Tien Well, with a mouth of 20 cm and a steady flow of water throughout the year. In 1992, the temple was recognized as a National Historical and Cultural Site by the Ministry of Culture and Information. The Tien Temple festival takes place annually on the 18th of the first lunar month (according to the lunar calendar).

Address: Chi Lang Ward, Lang Son City, Lang Son Province.

Bac Nga Temple, also known as Tien Nga Temple (Tien Nga Pagoda), is located 11 kilometers from Lang Son city along National Route 4B, heading towards Loc Binh, Dinh Lap, Quang Ninh, in the village of Bac Nga, Gia Cat Commune, Cao Loc District. The temple sits on the gentle slope of a hill, backed by a mountain, facing National Route 4B and the winding Ky Cung River, forming a beautiful natural landscape known as the 'Dragon facing the Tiger.' This site is considered to have excellent feng shui. The temple’s simple architecture includes statues of Buddha, the Good and Evil spirits, small statues on the Tam Bao altar, and several stone inscriptions documenting the temple's origins and the history of its restoration and contributions. While not as grand as some other temples, Bac Nga Temple has long been famous for its spiritual significance, attracting many pilgrims who come to pray.

According to legend, this area was once a land of lush flowers, rare plants, and fertile trees, with the Ky Cung River flowing through it in a picturesque manner. The natural beauty of the place was so enchanting that celestial maidens often descended to the mortal realm to admire the scenery. One such maiden fell so in love with the beauty of the place that she refused to return to the heavens. As a result, the villagers built a temple to honor the goddess and pray for peace and happiness. The temple's annual festival is held on the 15th of January, a tradition where people gather to invite the spirits of the immortals and Buddha to bless them. The Bac Nga Temple festival, held on the 15th of January, is one of the two largest traditional festivals in Cao Loc District, drawing crowds of local people and tourists. Visitors come not only to pray but also to enjoy the stunning scenery, partake in entertainment, and savor the region’s unique delicacies.

Address: Gia Cat Commune, Cao Loc District, Lang Son.

Cua Tay Temple is located in Chi Lang Ward, at the western gate of Lang Son's ancient citadel. Built in 1924, the temple is dedicated to General Tran Hung Dao and various Holy Mothers, and is also known as Ngũ Nhạc Linh Từ (Five Mountains Sacred Temple). According to records from the École Française d'Extrême-Orient, it is stated: 'This temple stands on a piece of land overlooking the Tam Ky River (Ky Cung), and was once known as the Five Mountains.' The temple's architecture includes an outer Tam Quan gate and two inner shrines. The first shrine, built in 1934, is dedicated to the Holy Mother. Legend connects this shrine with the meeting of the Holy Mother Liễu Hạnh and the scholar Phùng Khắc Khoan. The second shrine is designed in the shape of the character “đinh” (丁) and enshrines General Tran Hung Dao along with his royal children and notable generals, such as Pham Ngũ Lão, Da Tuong, and Yết Kiêu. The temple also houses valuable artifacts, including calligraphy panels, couplets, and three stone steles that provide historical information about the site.

The temple was established in the late 18th century and continues to honor Tran Hung Dao and the Holy Mothers. The two main halls consist of the first, dedicated to the Holy Mother, and the second, in the shape of “đinh,” which honors General Tran Hung Dao and his military leaders. This temple is one of the primary shrines in Lang Son dedicated to Tran Hung Dao, and many people visit to pray for success in their careers and endeavors. Visitors can also view two steles, erected in 1916 and 1923, which are significant both for their content and historical value. In addition to its architectural importance, Cua Tay Temple serves as a center for religious and spiritual activities for both the local community and pilgrims.

Address: Chi Lang, Lang Son City, Lang Son Province.

Cua Bac Temple is one of the four sacred shrines built to protect the spiritual essence of the ancient Lang Son Citadel. Located to the north of the citadel, the temple stands at the intersection of Tran Hung Dao Street and Cua Bac Street in Lang Son City. The temple was constructed around the 18th century and was designated a national heritage site in 2013. According to historical sources, the ancient Lang Son Citadel (Doan Thanh) had four main gates in the directions of East, West, South, and North. Each gate was associated with a temple dedicated to the guardian deities of the citadel, including: Cua Dong Temple (East Gate Temple), Cua Tay Temple (West Gate Temple), Cua Nam Temple (South Gate Temple), and Cua Bac Temple (North Gate Temple).

These temples were all built in the late 18th to early 19th centuries and are located in Chi Lang Ward, Lang Son City, with a view of the Ky Cung River. Like the other sacred shrines in the four corners, Cua Bac Temple honors General Tran Hung Dao (Hung Dao Dai Vương Tran Quoc Tuan), the Holy Mother (Mau Liễu), and Buddha (Tien Thu Tien Nhan). The temple follows the traditional style of worshiping the Holy Ancestors in front and Buddha behind, a practice common in many ancient temples and pagodas across Vietnam. The temple's architecture is shaped like the character “Nhị” (two), with the main hall (Chinh Dien) located at the front, followed by the inner sanctum (Hau Cung). Historical records note that the temple once housed many valuable artifacts. Today, the temple preserves a stele from 1924 commemorating its dedication, along with various statues, altars, and ceremonial objects.

Address: 1 Tran Nhat Duat, Chi Lang, Lang Son City, Lang Son.

According to historical records, the ancient Lang Son Citadel (Doan Thanh) once had four main gates in each direction: East, West, South, and North. Each of these gates was protected by a sacred temple, dedicated to a guardian deity who safeguarded the citadel. These temples included: Cua Dong (East Gate Temple), Cua Tay (West Gate Temple), Cua Nam (South Gate Temple), and Cua Bac (North Gate Temple), built during the late 18th to early 19th century. Located in Chi Lang Ward, Lang Son City, these temples overlook the Ky Cung River. Among them, Cua Nam Temple, located at the southern gate of the citadel, is one of the four sacred sites of Lang Son. It was officially recognized as a national historical site in 2013.

Much like other temples in the Four Pillars of Lang Son, Cua Nam Temple was constructed in the late 18th century and follows the Đinh architectural style. The main entrance faces north. The temple honors the Holy Mother (Tứ Phủ) and also venerates General Tran Hung Dao (Hung Dao Dai Vương Tran Quoc Tuan). Although modest in size, Cua Nam Temple is renowned for its simple, rustic charm and is considered highly sacred. Local legends tell of the temple's spiritual power to grant the wishes of those who visit with sincerity, particularly requests for success, wealth, and peace. The Cua Nam Temple festival, held on the 12th day of the second lunar month, attracts many locals and visitors who come to pray for their families and loved ones. The temple serves as a religious center for both locals and pilgrims. Along with the Four Pillars and the ancient citadel, Cua Nam Temple is an invaluable cultural and historical site that should not be missed when visiting Lang Son.

Address: Cua Nam Street, Chi Lang Ward, Lang Son City, Lang Son.

Cua Dong Temple is one of the sacred Four Pillars of Lang Son. Located to the east of the ancient Lang Son Citadel, the temple sits on Hung Vuong Street in Chi Lang Ward, Lang Son City, overlooking the Ky Cung River. As the name suggests, it serves as one of the four protective temples positioned at each cardinal direction around the ancient citadel. In front of the temple stands a centuries-old banyan tree, its shade creating a serene and contemplative atmosphere. Historically, the temple was known as Dong Mon Tu or Bạch Đế Temple, and also as Quan Lon Tam Phu Temple. Records suggest that the temple was built in the late 18th to early 19th century.

Inside the temple, the architecture reflects the passage of time, with a structure shaped like the Đinh character, and the main entrance facing the Ky Cung River. The temple complex includes three connected sections: the Nghi Mon (entrance), the Main Hall (Chính Điện), and the Left and Right Halls (Tả Hữu Vi). During the Vietnam War, the temple also served as a critical site for the transportation of arms and supplies from the Soviet Union to support the southern forces. Cua Dong Temple is dedicated to the Bạch Đế deity, the god of water, rivers, and serpents. This reflects the agricultural life of the people who depend on rice farming and water sources, as represented in many local legends. The temple also venerates the Holy Mother and General Tran Hung Dao. In 2013, Cua Dong Temple was officially recognized as a national historical site. Today, it is a popular spiritual destination in Lang Son, drawing visitors to explore its rich history and cultural significance.

Address: 67A Hung Vuong Street, Chi Lang Ward, Lang Son City, Lang Son.

Tả Phủ Temple is located on Ky Lua Market Street in Hoang Van Thu Ward, Lang Son City. The temple was established in 1683 during the Chinh Hoa era to honor Than Gong Tai, a general from the Later Le Dynasty, who held the title of Left Deputy General of Han District. Originally from Bac Giang, Than Gong Tai was appointed by the imperial court to defend Lang Son's northern borders alongside Vi Duc Thang. While in Lang Son, he contributed significantly by constructing seven roads and establishing seven districts, transforming Ky Lua into a prosperous trade center that attracted merchants from China.

The temple faces west, standing on elevated land, which adds to its majestic and sacred aura. Its architectural design consists of two buildings connected by a wall with two small gates leading into the main axis. In the courtyard between the two buildings, there is a stone stele erected in 1683. The inscription, titled 'Tôn sư phụ bi' (Stele of Honoring the Teacher-Father), commemorates Than Gong Tai’s contributions to Lang Son and his role in enhancing trade between Vietnam and China. The traditional festival of Tả Phủ Temple, called the Ky Lua Firecracker Festival, takes place annually from the 22nd to the 27th of the first lunar month. It is closely tied to the Ky Cung Temple festival and attracts many locals and visitors.

Address: Ky Lua Market Street, Hoang Van Thu Ward, Lang Son City, Lang Son.

Lang Son is home to many beautiful pagodas, and one of the most notable is Tan Thanh Pagoda. A visit to Tan Thanh Pagoda offers more than just a peaceful environment for prayer, it also provides an opportunity to admire the unique architectural features of the site. Located 28 km from Lang Son City, Tan Thanh Pagoda is a revered religious site in the region. Situated near the Tan Thanh border gate, it lies at the border between Vietnam and China. Construction of the pagoda began in 2015 in Tan Thanh Commune, Van Lang District, Lang Son Province, covering an area of 21 hectares, with a total investment of 500 billion VND. Notably, the funds for the construction were entirely raised by Buddhists both locally and internationally.

Unlike many other temples built in Chinese or Indian styles, Tan Thanh Pagoda was designed with a distinctly Vietnamese architectural style, which has drawn much interest from visitors. The pagoda is a rare example of traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture. Unlike other pagodas where signs and inscriptions are written in Chinese characters or Han Nom script, all signage at Tan Thanh Pagoda is in Vietnamese. One of the most remarkable features of the pagoda is that each brick is engraved with the inscription: 'SOCIALIST REPUBLIC OF VIETNAM – PHAT LICH 2559 – FOUNDATION OF TAN THANH PAGODA.' This reflects the deep sense of national pride, symbolizing that every brick and every inch of the land belongs to the people of Vietnam.

Address: Tan Thanh Commune, Van Lang District, Lang Son Province.

Co Be Suoi Ngang Temple, also known as Suoi Ngang Temple, is located in Pho Vi Commune, Huu Lung District, Lang Son. The temple serves not only as a cultural gathering place but also as a venue for ritual performances of 'hau dong' (a type of spirit medium performance). The spirit of Co Be Suoi Ngang, like other Co Be spirits in the region, is a representation of Thượng Ngàn, one of the Four Holy Goddesses in Vietnamese folklore. The young girls who embody these spirits are referred to as 'Bo Nang' (young girls of the Son Trang palace), who dress in traditional ethnic costumes, wear cloth leg wraps, silver bracelets, and carry umbrellas and baskets on their shoulders. Those who are experienced in the ritual are invited to perform in the temple.

To reach the temple, simply follow the road from the Mẹt intersection; locals will readily direct you to the temple. The path is straightforward, and cars can drive directly to the temple's entrance. The temple honors Co Be, the young spirits who serve Thượng Ngàn in the sacred Son Trang Palace. These spirits are worshipped by people from various communities in the region. Visitors from all over can come to the temple, not only to admire the scenery but also to pray for blessings and good fortune. If you visit on the first or fifteenth of the lunar month, you may witness the 'hau dong' performance, where the mediums dance and offer prayers. If you’re lucky, you might even receive a token of good luck, making it a unique cultural experience. The temple celebrates the feast day of Co Be Suoi Ngang on the 20th day of the 9th lunar month.

Address: Hoa Thang, Huu Lung, Lang Son.

Located within the scenic and historical Nhị - Tam Thanh - Tô Thị Mountain - Nhà Mạc Citadel complex, Nhi Thanh Cave is situated about 200 meters from the Pò Soài intersection, along the Nhị Thanh road. The cave was discovered and renovated by the prominent scholar Ngô Thì Sỹ during his tenure as the Governor of Lang Son from 1777 to 1780. He played a vital role in expanding farmland, stabilizing local communities, and transforming Lang Son into a prosperous commercial hub. During his travels, he came across Nhi Thanh Cave and commissioned the construction of Tam Giao Pagoda, the General’s Temple, Thạch Miên Am, Thụy Tuyền Hiên, and Trai Táo. Ngô Thì Sỹ, a native of Tả Thanh Oai in the former Hà Tây province, named the cave after his scholarly title, “Nhị Thanh,” as a tribute to his homeland.

To the right of Nhi Thanh Cave stands the Tam Giao Pagoda, built by Ngô Thì Sỹ in 1779. The pagoda honors the three main religious traditions: Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism, reflecting the concept of ‘three teachings in harmony.’ Inside the pagoda, visitors can find several worship halls, including the Hall of the General, the Hall of the Three Holy Mothers, the Hall of Son Trang, and the Hall of the Three Jewels, all housing an impressive collection of statues. To the left of Tam Giao Pagoda is the entrance to Nhi Thanh Cave, where the clear stream Ngọc Tuyền runs through the cave, stretching for approximately 600 meters. Before reaching the cave’s entrance, the stream forms a serene pond known as Ao Nhất Bích. From the cave’s rear exit, visitors can catch a glimpse of the entrance to Tam Thanh Cave, just 500 meters away via a walking trail. With its stunning natural beauty, the sacred Tam Giao Pagoda, and its extensive collection of stone inscriptions, Nhi Thanh Cave promises to fulfill the spiritual, cultural, and academic interests of both locals and tourists alike.

Address: Lang Son City, Lang Son Province.

Bac Le Temple is one of the oldest and most revered temples in Lang Son, surrounded by lush trees that provide shade to this centuries-old sanctuary. Over time and through the vicissitudes of history, the temple has remained steadfast, continuing to serve as a spiritual destination for visitors from all over. Located in Tan Thanh commune, Huu Lung district, Lang Son province, the temple is about 80km from Lang Son city center. To reach it, travelers must navigate a 10km dirt road from Huu Lung town. The temple complex sits atop a high hill, with ancient trees surrounding the site. It is dedicated to the worship of Ba Chua Thuong Ngan, the goddess of the mountains, believed by the locals to protect and bestow valuable resources from the mountains and forests.

At Bac Le Temple in Lang Son, visitors are immersed in the serene atmosphere of the mountains. The temple features a traditional 3-part structure: the First, Second, and Third Halls (the Forbidden Hall), covering an area of 126 square meters. In front of the temple stands a large Tam Quan gate, welcoming all visitors. After several renovations, the temple has preserved its original beauty. The main temple follows the “Dinh” architectural style, with a front hall and a rear sanctuary. The roof of the front hall is adorned with the emblem of a dragon symbolizing the balance of the universe — representing the harmony of heaven and earth, as well as the yin and yang forces in nature. The Bac Le Temple Festival is one of the most important annual events in Lang Son, held for three days from the 18th to the 20th day of the 9th lunar month. The festival features several significant rituals, including the bathing of the throne, the main feast, and processions. Every year, thousands of visitors come to the temple to witness these ceremonies and enjoy the cultural festivities.

Address: Tan Thanh Commune, Huu Lung, Lang Son.

Located in the center of Dong Dang town, Cao Loc district, Lang Son province, just 4 km from the Huu Nghi border gate, Mau Dong Dang Temple is an ancient, grand temple of significant cultural, architectural, and historical value. It serves as a spiritual center for the local people and attracts visitors both domestic and international. Devotees come here to pray for protection, prosperity, and good health, fostering community spirit and preserving cultural traditions. The temple, also known as 'Dong Dang Linh Tu,' stands proudly atop a mountain, and visitors often seek blessings for well-being, happiness, and fortune. Over time, Mau Dong Dang has transformed from a spiritual site into a popular tourist destination in northern Vietnam.

Historically, this temple has been considered a sacred site. Dong Dang Linh Tu consists of five worship halls. At the innermost part lies the Tam Bao Hall, which houses the statues of Phat Chuan De and Quan Am Bodhisattva. The next hall is dedicated to the Three Holy Mothers: The First Mother of the Heavens, the Second Mother of the Mountains, and the Third Mother of the Water Gate. Following that is the Son Trang Hall, where the Goddess of the Mountains is worshiped, flanked by Chao Muoi Dong Mo and Chao Chin. The outermost hall honors the Chua Lieu, with Chao Bo and Chao Luc on either side, as well as several other deities and saints. Annually, on the 10th day of the lunar new year, the temple hosts the Dong Dang Spring Festival, a celebration of the region's cultural diversity. Known historically as the 'Long Tong Festival' or 'Rice Planting Festival,' it features lion dances, martial arts, and various sports competitions. Visitors can immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere, light incense, and pray for health, wealth, and a prosperous year ahead.

Address: Dong Dang Town, Cao Loc, Lang Son.

Known as the 'Top Scenic Wonder of Lang Son,' Tam Thanh Pagoda has long been a captivating destination for spiritual tourism. Its natural, untouched beauty resembles a mystical paradise, blending the grandeur of nature with human aspirations. Situated within the Tam Thanh cave system in Lang Son City, Lang Son Province, the pagoda's origins date back to the Le Dynasty. Today, numerous historical marks are evident in the relics throughout the temple. The name 'Tam Thanh' refers to the three caves—Nhất Thanh, Nhị Thanh, and Tam Thanh—that make up this sacred complex. Built within the Tam Thanh cave, the pagoda takes its name from the cave itself. Surrounded by clouds and nestled in the rugged mountain terrain, the majestic landscape amplifies the ethereal atmosphere of this spiritual haven.

Tam Thanh Cave lies against a mountain range shaped like a kneeling elephant on a green carpet of grass. The cave's entrance faces east, sheltered by towering ancient trees that act as a protective barrier. Inside, the temple holds traces of cultural and historical significance, including poems and writings by renowned scholars. Tam Thanh Pagoda is not only a place of worship for Buddha but also, during the era of the Three Teachings (Confucianism, Taoism, and Buddhism), was a site for venerating Confucius and Laozi—two great figures of Confucianism and Taoism. This unique fusion makes Tam Thanh Pagoda a rare example of religious syncretism in Vietnam. The scenic beauty of nature, combined with human aspiration, makes Tam Thanh a place of peace and divine majesty—humble yet majestic, close yet transcendental.

Address: Lang Son City, Lang Son Province.