500-Year-Old Vinh Thai Pagoda in Thanh Hoa: A Blend of Serenity and Revolutionary History

Nestled at the foot of Hoang Nghieu Mountain in Thanh Hoa province, north-central Vietnam, Vinh Thai Pagoda stands as a testament to nearly 500 years of history. Spanning over three hectares, the pagoda is renowned for its picturesque "mountain-water harmonious" scenery, captivating visitors with its serene beauty. Historical records indicate that Vinh Thai Pagoda was constructed in the late 16th century by Mac Dang Khue, a prince of the Mac dynasty, who came to the region to develop and establish a village. Originally located elsewhere, the pagoda was relocated to its current site after suffering damage from natural disasters. The present location offers a stunning vista, with the mountain at its back and a river flowing in front. The main hall of Vinh Thai Pagoda exhibits a typical northern Vietnamese architectural style, featuring a three-bay, two-lean-to structure with a "mui hai" tiled roof. Despite enduring damage from war and natural calamities over the centuries, extensive restoration and renovation efforts since the 1990s have preserved its grandeur. Today, it serves as a vital center for religious practice and a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Within the main hall, gilded Buddha statues are enshrined in the central chamber, while the left and right sides honor Bodhisattvas and the spirits of fallen revolutionary heroes. Significantly, the pagoda played a clandestine role as a base for revolutionary activities during Vietnam's resistance periods. Between 1939 and 1941, prominent figures such as the late General Secretary Nguyen Van Linh and poet To Huu were active here. Inscriptions by Nguyen Van Linh are still preserved within the pagoda, serving as a historical memento of that era. Intricate carvings of Buddhist motifs, including lotus flowers, clouds, and dragons, adorn the wooden doors. The pagoda's dual-tiered roof and decorative "song long chau nguyet" (two dragons flanking the moon) motifs on the ridge and eaves are characteristic of northern Vietnamese pagoda art. Behind the main hall, a stone staircase of hundreds of steps winds up the slope of Hoang Nghieu Mountain. From an elevation of over 40 meters, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, rice paddies, and rural villages. A stupa housing a Bodhisattva statue is situated on the mountainside behind the pagoda, standing out amidst the greenery and rock formations, offering a tranquil spot for visitors to offer incense and admire the scenery. Stone statues of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats are also placed along the pathways within the pagoda grounds. Vinh Thai Pagoda is located approximately 20 kilometers from the center of Thanh Hoa city. Visitors can follow National Highway 45 towards Nong Cong, then turn onto the provincial road leading to Trung Chính commune. The pagoda is easily accessible for vehicles ranging from 16 to 45 seats. Alternatively, travelers can reach Thanh Hoa station by train or bus and then hire a taxi or motorbike to reach the pagoda. Source: VnExpress