Van Son Pagoda – a spiritual landmark amidst the sea and sky of Con Dao

The path leading to Van Son Pagoda

Van Son Pagoda was originally established in 1964, through the efforts of the late Most Venerable Thich Tam Giac, the founding patriarch of Vinh Nghiem Pagoda in Ho Chi Minh City. Initially, it was a small meditation hall built to offer prayers and pay tribute to the heroes and martyrs who died in the Con Dao prison system.

Over time, the pagoda fell into disrepair due to the harsh conditions and historical upheavals. In 2010, responding to the spiritual needs of local Buddhists and residents, the temple underwent a major renovation and expansion, thanks to the support of the Vietnam Buddhist Sangha, benefactors, and Buddhists nationwide. The restoration was completed in April 2011.

Within the temple grounds stands a 2-meter-tall statue of Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (Quan The Am), holding a vase of pure water and standing gracefully on a lotus pedestal — a symbol of compassion and wisdom.

Van Son Pagoda leans against the mountain and faces the East Sea, forming a solid and sacred position.

The main hall enshrines Shakyamuni Buddha, Bodhisattva Avalokiteshvara (Quan The Am), and Bodhisattva Ksitigarbha (Dia Tang).

More than half a century since its founding, Van Son Pagoda has become a symbol of Buddhist compassion and enlightenment on the island.

According to Venerable Thich Trung Son, the abbot of the pagoda: “This temple is not only a place of spiritual cultivation, but also a sacred home for local Buddhists and those returning to their homeland. Each chanting session and retreat carries prayers for national peace and universal happiness, while offering opportunities for learning the Dharma and nurturing kindness.”

The pagoda also features a memorial space dedicated to President Ho Chi Minh, national heroine Vo Thi Sau, and the martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Vietnam’s independence, reflecting the Vietnamese tradition of "gratitude to those who came before." Each verse and chant echoes a solemn reminder to today’s generations of the sacrifices made for peace.

From the temple’s courtyard, visitors are treated to a panoramic view of the picturesque Con Son Bay, with scattered islets rising gently from the emerald waters of the East Sea.

On December 4, 2009, Van Son Pagoda was officially recognized as a provincial-level historical, cultural, and scenic site by the People's Committee of Ba Ria – Vung Tau Province (Decision No. 4025/QĐ-UBND).

In this sacred setting, Van Son Pagoda remains a spiritual anchor for generations, nurturing faith, preserving Buddhist cultural values, and serving as a beacon of serenity amid the vast ocean and sky of the homeland.