Linh Ung Pagoda sits in the Bai But area of the Son Tra peninsula in Da Nang, spread across about twenty hectares of mountainside facing the sea, with forest behind. Its landmark is the Guanyin statue in the courtyard, 67 metres tall with a base 35 metres across. The national tourism authority calls it the tallest statue in Vietnam, and it can be seen from much of Da Nang. Local accounts tell of a Buddhist statue that drifted downstream in the 19th century, ran aground on a sandy embankment and was taken by villagers as a good omen, giving the area its name. Today the site is both a place of worship and a sightseeing stop, and the views across the bay are as much a draw as the statue.
What to see
The great statue in the courtyard, eighteen Arhat statues lining the path to the main chamber, each showing a different emotion such as joy, anger or sadness, and the main hall, ancestors' house and monks' quarters. Allow an hour or so to walk the grounds. The statue stands with its eyes on the sea, and the lines of the mountain and the bay make it a good viewpoint on a clear day.
The tourism page does not give opening hours, entry costs or a dress code, so check locally. Entry to Buddhist sites in Vietnam is normally free, but treat that as general practice, not a guarantee.
Etiquette matters at a working pagoda. Dress modestly, with covered shoulders and knees, remove hats, keep your voice low, and follow any signs about photography inside the halls. Do not climb on statues or touch offerings. Giving a small donation at the donation box is customary but not required. Visit in the morning for softer light and fewer tour groups, and bring water because there is limited shade on the main terrace.
Getting there and season
The pagoda is on the road around the Son Tra peninsula, and the drive from central Da Nang is short, though from Hoi An it is roughly forty-five minutes to an hour. It combines naturally with the Marble Mountains and the Dragon Bridge show on a Da Nang day. This guide was written on 7 November 2026, in central Vietnam's wet season, when mist and cloud can hide the view from the peninsula and the road can be slippery.
Choose a clear window if you can, and be flexible. The Hai Van Pass route also lists Linh Ung among possible stops, so it can sit inside a longer motorbike or car day. The site is free to enter, so there is no ticket to buy, only the cost of getting there.
What to expect
The experience
A free visit to a working pagoda with a giant Guanyin statue, eighteen Arhat figures and sea views.
Best time
Morning on a clear day for soft light and fewer groups. Mist is common in the wet season.
How long
One to two hours on site, plus travel from Hoi An.
Tips
Dress modestly, remove hats, bring water, and check opening hours locally.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Visitors who want a Da Nang landmark with a view and a quiet spiritual feel.
- Families
- Easy walking and plenty of space, with a short visit that suits children.
- Couples
- Pair it with a sunset drive around the Son Tra peninsula.
- Pair with
- Marble Mountains and the Dragon Bridge show.
- Time needed
- One to two hours on site, half a day with travel.
Good questions
How tall is the Lady Buddha statue?+
The Guanyin statue at Linh Ung Pagoda is 67 metres tall, with a 35 metre base, according to the national tourism authority.
Where is it?+
In the Bai But area of the Son Tra peninsula in Da Nang, facing the sea.
Is there an entrance fee?+
The tourism page does not give a charge. Buddhist sites in Vietnam are normally free, but check on arrival.
What should I wear?+
Modest clothing with covered shoulders and knees, and remove your hat inside the halls.
Is it worth visiting in the wet season?+
Only on a clear day. Mist and cloud can hide the view, so choose a dry window.
