First built in 1886 and an important center for Vietnamese Buddhism, the Long Son Pagoda has been rebuilt many times over the years, most recently in 1990. The 46-foot (14-meter) white Buddha dates back to 1964, and his 33-foot (10-meter) pedestal is decorated with pictures of burning monks who sacrificed themselves to protest the tyranny of the American-backed South Vietnamese regime. Most every Nha Trang city tour and shore excursion includes a stop here and a guide can really enhance the experience—not least by shooing away scammers and aggressive vendors.
Long Son Pagoda sits in the heart of Nha Trang, about a 5-minute walk west of the train station.
The pagoda is open seven days a week but closes in the middle of the day for a lengthy lunch break. Visit early in the week for a less crowded experience.
Long Son Pagoda’s Big Buddha can be seen from across Nha Trang, but his hilltop position offers sweeping city views as well. For views of the ocean and the rugged coastline, visit Hon Chong, a narrow granite promontory framed by blue waters, or board the Vinpearl Cable Car for a thrilling 2-mile (3-kilometer) ride over the sea to Vinpearl Land on Hon Tre Island.