Phuoc Hung Pagoda

If you have the opportunity to visit Sa Dec - the city of brilliant flowers in the middle of the Mekong Delta, do not forget to stop at Phuoc Hung Pagoda, one of the most ancient and sacred pagodas in Dong Thap. Not only is it a place of worship and pilgrimage for local people and Buddhists from near and far, the pagoda also bears a strong cultural and architectural mark of the intersection between Vietnamese and Chinese cultures. With nearly 200 years of existence, this place not only preserves profound spiritual values ​​but is also a witness to many changes in the peaceful land of Sa Dec.

Phuoc Hung Pagoda, one of the most ancient and sacred temples in Dong Thap province. Source: Du lich

An Overview of Phuoc Hung Pagoda

Phuoc Hung Pagoda, also known as Huong Pagoda, is located at 461 Hung Vuong Street, Ward 1, Sa Dec City, Dong Thap Province, Vietnam. Phuoc Hung Pagoda is one of the oldest pagodas in Dong Thap province, standing out with its harmonious architecture between Vietnamese and Chinese cultures. Since its establishment in 1838, Phuoc Hung Pagoda has served as an important spiritual center for the Minh Huong Chinese community in Sa Dec.

Phuoc Hung Pagoda, also known as Huong Pagoda, is located at 461 Hung Vuong Street, Ward 1, Sa Dec City, Dong Thap Province. Source: Du lich mien Tay 

Unique Architecture

Exterior Architecture Of Phuoc Hung Pagoda

Phuoc Hung Pagoda is designed in the shape of the Chinese character "Sơn" (山), a traditional architectural style commonly found in both ancient Chinese and Vietnamese temples. The pagoda features a total of eight roofs arranged in two tiers, all covered with traditional yin-yang tiles, typical of classical pagoda construction.

Surrounding the structure are vivid depictions of natural elements such as plants, flowers, and birds, as well as the Four Sacred Animals - Dragon (Long), Qilin (Lân), Turtle (Qui), and Phoenix (Phụng) - crafted in traditional Chinese style. These artistic elements create a harmonious blend of color and material, symbolizing the balance of yin and yang in both life and spiritual practice.

Exterior Architecture Of Phuoc Hung Pagoda. Source: Du lich mien Tay 

Interior Architecture of Phuoc Hung Pagoda

As you pass through the Dong Lang gate to enter the main hall of Phuoc Hung Pagoda, you are greeted by two parallel sentences that echo the aspirations and spiritual dedication of the temple’s founders. Inside the Dong Lang area is the reception space for pilgrims and visitors. Adjacent to it is the ancestral hall, which consists of five compartments arranged in three rows, where the resident monks gather for daily meals.

At the center of the dining hall stands the altar dedicated to the patriarchs and former abbots of the pagoda. Their portraits and memorial tablets are respectfully placed in finely crafted wooden frames, lacquered in red and gilded with gold, featuring delicate and intricate carvings. The serene and solemn interior of Phuoc Hung Pagoda reflects deep reverence and preserves the rich spiritual heritage passed down through generations.

As you pass through the Dong Lang gate to enter the main hall of Phuoc Hung Pagoda, you are greeted by two parallel sentences that echo the aspirations and spiritual dedication of the temple’s founders. Source: Du lich mien Tay

Sacred Treasures of Phuoc Hung Pagoda

The “Trans-Vietnam” Wooden Fish Drum

Among the precious dharma instruments, we must mention the beautiful fish-shaped chanting wooden fish. The wooden fish is made of precious wood, delicately carved, weighs about 15kg, and has a special resonant sound thanks to its thick and large material. This drum was brought from the North by Venerable Thich Vinh Trang (1881-1963), the fourth abbot of the pagoda, nearly 90 years ago.

In 1938, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the pagoda’s founding, the Venerable made a vow to make a pilgrimage to Northern Vietnam. During his journey, he visited various sacred sites and obtained the drum from Thien Phuc Tu (also known as Thay Pagoda) in Hanoi. Remarkably, he carried the drum on his head, chanting Buddha’s name as he walked all the way back to the South. This extraordinary journey made the drum a cherished dharma treasure, embodying the devotion and spiritual dedication of the pagoda’s history.

One of the most treasured artifacts of Phuoc Hung Pagoda is a beautifully carved wooden fish drum used during sutra chanting. Source: Lao dong 

The Exquisitely Carved Horizontal Panel

Hanging in front of the ancestral hall is an ornate horizontal panel engraved with intricate patterns. At the center are the three prominent characters “Bat Nha Duong” (Hall of Prajna), set against a background decorated with elegant motifs of apricot blossoms, orchids, bamboo, butterflies, fans, scrolls, and calligraphy tools.

To the left of the main hall lies the Tay Lang section, which serves both as a reception area for visiting monks and as a storage space for sacred scriptures and texts. These precious relics not only enhance the spiritual ambiance of Phuoc Hung Pagoda but also reflect the deep cultural and religious heritage preserved within its walls.

Hanging in front of the ancestral hall is an ornate horizontal panel engraved with intricate patterns. Source: Lao dong 

Getting to Phuoc Hung Pagoda

Phuoc Hung Pagoda is located at 461 Hung Vuong Street, Ward 1, Sa Dec City, Dong Thap Province, right in the city center, so it is easy to find. Depending on your starting location, you can choose the appropriate means of transport:

From Ho Chi Minh City:

• By bus: You can take a bus from Mien Tay bus station to Sa Dec with a travel time of about 3.5-4 hours. Some reputable bus companies are Phuong Trang, Kim Cuong, Hue Nghia. After arriving at the center of Sa Dec, you can take a taxi or motorbike taxi to the pagoda (only a few kilometers away).
• By motorbike or private car: Follow National Highway 1A → National Highway 80 → Sa Dec. Travel time is about 3-4 hours, suitable for those who want to combine backpacking and visiting many places.

From the center of Sa Dec: The pagoda is less than 1km from Sa Dec market, so you can easily walk, cycle, or call a technology car/taxi.

Note: The road to the pagoda is spacious, with parking for motorbikes and small cars. You should come early in the morning or in the cool afternoon to enjoy the fresh air and avoid the harsh sunlight.

Getting to Phuoc Hung Pagoda. Source: Du lich mien Tay 

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Visitor Guidelines at Phuoc Hung Pagoda

When visiting and worshiping at Phuoc Hung Pagoda, please keep the following in mind to show respect for the spiritual space and help preserve its cultural beauty:

• Dress modestly and neatly: Avoid wearing shorts, sleeveless tops, or skirts that are too short. Choose clean, tidy, and elegant clothing.
• Maintain quiet and order: The pagoda is a peaceful place for pilgrimage and chanting, so please walk softly, speak quietly, and avoid disturbing others.
• Do not touch Buddha statues, sacred relics, or antiques: Many items in the pagoda are valuable religious and historical artifacts.
• Do not litter: Keep the area clean by disposing of trash properly in designated bins.
• Respect monks and worshippers: If you want to take photos, always ask for permission, especially during ceremonies or chanting sessions.
• Follow the designated entrance and exit routes: Avoid walking against the flow to prevent inconvenience to other visitors.

A respectful and mindful visit not only enriches your experience but also helps preserve the beauty and sanctity of this historic site.

Visitor Guidelines at Phuoc Hung Pagoda. Source: Du lich mien Tay 

Conclusion

Phuoc Hung Pagoda is a must-visit destination when traveling to Sa Dec, Dong Thap. With its unique architecture, long-standing history, and profound cultural and spiritual values, the pagoda serves not only as a pilgrimage site for Buddhists but also as an attractive spot for visitors interested in exploring Vietnam’s rich culture and history.

Take a peaceful morning to stroll through the ancient space of Phuoc Hung Pagoda - a place where you can find tranquility amidst the hustle and bustle of life, allowing your soul to calm down along with the gentle scent of incense.

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