Thien Ung Pagoda, Hai Phong
Thien Ung Pagoda is a fascinating destination for discerning travelers when acquiring Lan Ha Bay sightseeing tickets. Renowned as an ancient and sacred sanctuary, it is situated in Tran Chau Commune, Cat Hai District, Hai Phong City. Perched majestically upon an arc-shaped mountain range overlooking the East Sea, the pagoda commands a magnificent “crouching tiger, hidden dragon” terrain, revered as sacred ground. With a history spanning over 300 years, the pagoda is intrinsically linked to the Tran Dynasty and the nation’s heroic struggles for independence.
According to legend, Thien Ung Pagoda was established in the 13th century during the reign of King Tran Thai Tong (1232–1250). The sovereign dreamed of a sea deity proclaiming that a grand pagoda must be erected here for annual worship to ensure favorable weather, peace, and the security of the realm. Upon returning to the capital, the King issued a royal decree to construct the temple, naming it Thien Ung—signifying a divine bestowal and spiritual resonance. This auspicious name is also inscribed upon a surviving fragment of an ancient stone stele at the pagoda.
Throughout history, Thien Ung Pagoda has rendered profound service to the people and revolutionary forces in resisting foreign invaders, praying for peace and bountiful harvests. The abbot monks have long been deeply respected and revered by the locals. During the two resistance wars against the French (1946–1954) and the Americans (1955–1975), the pagoda served as a covert sanctuary, sheltering local cadres and guerrillas while storing confidential documents and weaponry.
Nevertheless, Thien Ung Pagoda suffered severe devastation amidst the ravages of war, leaving behind only remnants such as stone stelae, stone column bases, and the original foundation. Mrs. Vu Thi Hoi is the devoted custodian who has voluntarily watched over and preserved the pagoda for the past 31 years. Using her own personal resources, she erected a modest dwelling for worship and established the altar of the Triple Gem, while safeguarding the sacred historical vestiges of the site.
Recently, Venerable Thich Tuc Khang was appointed as the abbot of Thien Ung Pagoda, ushering in a promising new chapter for this sacred sanctuary. Venerable Thich Tuc Khang is a highly esteemed monk celebrated for his extensive cultural and social contributions, having profoundly advanced Buddhism both within Hai Phong and across the nation. He has formulated comprehensive plans to restore and revitalize Thien Ung Pagoda, preserving the nation’s precious religious and cultural heritage.
Thien Ung Pagoda stands as a landmark of profound historical, cultural, and spiritual significance. It is a source of immense pride for the residents of Tran Chau Commune, Cat Hai District, and the entirety of Hai Phong City, as well as a captivating attraction for both domestic and international travelers. Thien Ung Pagoda serves as a timeless symbol of the resilience, fortitude, and sacrifice of the Vietnamese people through successive eras, embodying the spiritual resonance of heaven and earth alongside the unwavering faith of the people in the Buddha Dharma.
See more: Top 9 Most Sacred Pagodas in Quang Ninh
