Located on the summit of Thuy Son, known as the largest and most beautiful mountain in the Marble Mountains scenic complex, Non Nuoc Pagoda in Da Nang is an ancient temple, carrying within it a mysterious and sacred beauty. Therefore, during trips to Da Nang, many tourists have visited the pagoda to sightsee, pray, and hear fascinating legends surrounding this exquisite temple.
Introducing briefly about Non Nuoc Pagoda in Ngu Hanh Son, Da Nang:
Non Nuoc Pagoda, also known as Non Nuoc Pagoda, is situated within the scenic complex of Ngu Hanh Son (Marble Mountains) in Da Nang. It is considered both a spiritual center and a famous landmark of Da Nang. Besides its name Non Nuoc Pagoda, the pagoda is also known as Ngu Hanh Son Pagoda or Outer Pagoda, while Tam Thai Pagoda is referred to as Inner Pagoda. It is known that Non Nuoc Pagoda is the earliest among the three Linh Ung Pagodas in Da Nang.
According to historical records, in 1825, during the reign of the 6th Emperor Minh Mang, when Tam Thai Pagoda was rebuilt, it was also the time when Non Nuoc Pagoda was constructed. A plaque was installed with the inscription “Ngự chế Ứng Chơn Tự, Minh Mạng lục niên phụng tạo” (Emperor Minh Mang’s sixth year of reign, creating the Linh Ung Pagoda). Thus, initially, when it was newly built, the pagoda was named Ứng Chơn. Then, in 1891, during the reign of the 3rd Emperor Thanh Thai, it was renamed Linh Ung Pagoda, with the inscription “Cải tứ Linh Ứng Tự, Thành Thái Tam Niên” (Emperor Thanh Thai’s third year of reign, renovating the Linh Ung Pagoda). This name has been retained until today without any changes.
The history of the formation of Non Nuoc Pagoda in Da Nang:
Emerging in 1825 and spanning several centuries with many historical upheavals, Non Nuoc Pagoda has undergone numerous renovations. According to historical records, the precursor of the pagoda was a cave named Tang Chon, dating back to the first half of the 17th century. A virtuous person established a meditation area in front of the cave, called Duong Chon Am. Later, through renovation and transformation, it became Duong Chon Duong. Subsequently, Emperor Gia Long arrived and renamed it Ngự chế Ứng Chơn Tư.
During the reign of Emperor Minh Mang, he rebuilt the pagoda with sturdy and elegant tiled bricks, naming it Ứng Chơn Tư. At this time, he also constructed two stone stairways leading up the mountain, with the western one consisting of 156 steps leading to Tam Thai Pagoda, and the eastern one consisting of 108 steps leading to Ứng Chơn Pagoda. These stairways are still in use today.
Over three centuries, along with the period of wars with France and the United States, and enduring severe natural disasters that the Central Region had to endure, Non Nuoc Pagoda suffered significant damage. However, through various restoration efforts, the pagoda has preserved many of its original architectural features until now. Especially notable are the two golden plaques bestowed by Emperor Minh Mang and Emperor Thanh Thai.
Reasons to Visit Non Nuoc Pagoda in Da Nang:
Non Nuoc Pagoda is a place that preserves remarkable cultural and historical values.
Located on Thuy Son Mountain, within the Lower Cave cluster of the Marble Mountains, Non Nuoc Pagoda is known as an ancient temple with high cultural and historical value, worthy of reverence. Behind the pagoda lies the Tang Chon Cave, measuring 10m long and 7m wide. From Tam Thai Pagoda, heading eastward towards Thuy Son Mountain, and then directly towards the pagoda, at the end of the road, visitors will encounter a beautiful Tam Quan gate.
Passing through the Tam Quan gate leads to the main area of the pagoda, with architectural designs resembling the character ‘one’ at its center. On the right side are ancestral halls, guest houses, a celestial hall, and a lecture hall, while on the left side are the Quan Am Pavilion and the Great Teacher’s Tower. Inside the pagoda, two precious artifacts are preserved: two golden plaques—one inscribed with “Ngự chế Ứng Chơ tự, Minh Mạng lục niên,” bestowed by Emperor Minh Mang, and the other inscribed with “Cải Tử,” bestowed by Emperor Thành Thái. Particularly, outside Non Nuoc Pagoda stands a unique statue of Buddha Thich Ca.
Non Nuoc Pagoda – a tranquil meditation space with poetic charm.
Not only does Non Nuoc Pagoda possess sacred relics and valuable artifacts, but it also serves as a serene meditation retreat. Surrounded by lush greenery and diverse flora and fauna, this place offers a refreshing and tranquil atmosphere throughout the year. Despite not boasting the grandeur of Linh Ung Pagoda in Son Tra Peninsula or Ba Na Hills, Non Nuoc Pagoda emanates its own mysterious and tranquil charm.
Inside the pagoda, various Buddha statues such as Buddha Thich Ca Như Lai, Quan The Am Bodhisattva, Tam The Phat, bodhisattvas, and guardian spirits are enshrined, while outside, there is a cool green garden. Together, they create a serene, enjoyable, and spiritually uplifting space. When visiting Non Nuoc Pagoda, visitors can also explore nearby spiritual architectural landmarks within the Marble Mountains area, such as Tam Thai Pagoda, Tu Tam Pagoda, Vong Giang Tower, Hang Ray, Hang Gio, etc.
Every weekend or on significant lunar calendar dates such as the 1st and 15th of the month, not only locals from Da Nang but also numerous tourists visit Non Nuoc Pagoda. Some come to light incense, pray, and pay homage to Buddha, while others seek solace and peace of mind, casting away life’s worries and rediscovering inner tranquility.
The breathtaking scenery viewed from Non Nuoc Pagoda
Non Nuoc Pagoda is not only beautiful from within, but the surrounding landscape also adds to the charm for visitors. From a high point on this temple, tourists can cast their gaze far and wide to behold the refreshing sea view along with long stretches of white sandy beaches. In the distance stands Linh Ung Pagoda majestically on Son Tra Peninsula, adding to Da Nang’s grandeur and richness.
Impressive Architecture of Non Nuoc Pagoda in Da Nang
Non Nuoc Pagoda in Da Nang is originally a temple, boasting significant architectural and historical values. The pagoda stands out with its unique ‘one-character’ architectural style. The more you delve inside, the more vivid and dynamic this architectural style becomes apparent.
External Architecture of Non Nuoc Pagoda
As soon as you step into the temple compound, you’ll see a majestic 10m white Buddha statue sitting solemnly. If you observe closely, you’ll notice the statue leaning against the mountain with its face towards the temple, exuding a solemn aura. Adding freshness to the temple space are the trees, rock gardens, and flowers arranged throughout.
When visiting Non Nuoc Pagoda, don’t rush inside the hall; take some time to pause outside and admire the scenery. The serene atmosphere, along with the lush greenery, inadvertently creates a vivid natural painting, where you can hear the delightful chirping of birds.
Xa Loi Tower of Non Nuoc Pagoda
While admiring the temple scenery, visitors will notice the presence of Xa Loi Tower, a structure built in 1997. The tower, standing at 28m tall with 7 floors, houses 200 statues of Buddhas, Bodhisattvas, and Arhats. On the 7th floor of the tower is a shrine dedicated to Xa Loi Buddha alongside 7 Buddhas of the Past. Xa Loi Tower is also the tower with the most stone statues for worship in Vietnam up to the present.
Architecture of the Main Hall Area of Non Nuoc Pagoda
Stepping into the main area of Non Nuoc Pagoda, visitors are immediately greeted by the solemn sight of the Thich Ca Buddha statue placed in the center. Additionally, looking to the right, you’ll see the Maitreya Buddha statue, while on the left is the Amitabha Buddha statue. In Buddhist belief, the gathering of these three statues is referred to as the Three Jewels. In the middle, there is also a Bodhisattva statue consisting of Avalokitesvara and Manjushri. Besides, on both sides of the main hall, there are statues of Bodhisattva Guan Yin and Bodhisattva Dai Tang Vuong.
Some information about Non Nuoc Pagoda in Da Nang:
Where is Non Nuoc Pagoda located?
- Address: Situated on Thuy Son Mountain, within the Marble Mountains complex, at 98 Huyen Tran Cong Chua Street, Hoa Hai Ward, Ngu Hanh Son District.
In terms of geographical location, Non Nuoc Pagoda is approximately 100m away from the Truong Sa coastal road, which is also a prime route converging many high-end resorts such as Vinpearl, Casino Crown, Hyatt, etc. The location of Ngu Hanh Mountain is also very convenient for tourists to visit the ancient town of Hoi An, not far away.
Directions to Non Nuoc Pagoda
As it’s only about 10km southeast of the city center, it’s not difficult to reach Non Nuoc Pagoda in Ngu Hanh Son. You can choose one of the following two routes:
- Route 1: From Dragon Bridge – take Vo Van Kiet Street – turn left onto Ngo Quyen Street – Tran Thi Ly Roundabout – proceed straight to Ngu Hanh Son.
- Route 2: Dragon Bridge – follow 2/9 Street – CMT8 Street – Hoa Xuan Bridge – Nguyen Phuoc Lan Street – Trung Luong Bridge – Mai Dang Chon Street – Le Van Hien Street – Ngu Hanh Son.
Transportation to Non Nuoc Pagoda
Due to its proximity to the city center of Da Nang, getting to Non Nuoc Pagoda is quite easy. You can rent a motorbike in Da Nang or take a taxi, private car…
For the fastest transportation, it’s advisable to pre-book a private car with a driver in Da Nang, with a pre-arranged itinerary to ensure you won’t worry about time and avoid missing your trip. In addition, a private car from DanangPrivateCar.com allows you to visit various other destinations in Da Nang such as My Khe Beach, Son Tra Peninsula, Dragon Bridge…
You can book a day trip from Da Nang to Marble Mountains by private car today to visit Non Nuoc Pagoda.
Opening hours and ticket prices for Non Nuoc Pagoda
Opening hours: From 6:30 am to 5:30 pm.
Ticket prices for Marble Mountains:
- For adults: 40,000 VND/person.
- For students: 10,000 VND/person.
- For children: Free of charge.
Note: Includes attractions on Thuy Son Mountain, including pagodas, caves, etc…
Ticket prices for Am Phu Cave:
- For adults: 20,000 VND/person.
- For students: 7,000 VND/person.
- For children: Free of charge.
Ticket prices for the elevator: 30,000 VND/round trip, 15,000 VND/one way.
Price for hiring a tour guide: 50,000 VND/person.
Read More Articles: Ticket Prices for Visiting Marble Mountains in Da Nang
What to buy as souvenirs when visiting Non Nuoc Pagoda?
After spending at least 1.5-2 hours exploring Non Nuoc Pagoda along with nearby attractions such as Tam Thai Pagoda, Huyen Khong Cave, Am Phu Cave, Van Nguyet Cave, Linh Nham Cave, Tang Chon Cave, etc., you should take some time to choose souvenirs for yourself and your loved ones.
Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village is located right at the foot of Ngu Hanh Mountain, famous for being a village specialized in producing items made of marble, exported domestically and internationally. To create items such as stone bracelets, statues, people use marble as the raw material because they have many beautiful and luxurious veins.
Feng shui stones in Non Nuoc craft village. When you come to Non Nuoc Stone Carving Village, you can choose for yourself some of the most unique souvenir items, especially stone bracelets, statues of Buddhas, saints, legendary animals such as dragons, unicorns, and other jewelry items made of stone, etc.
Some notes when visiting Non Nuoc Pagoda in Danang
Although the road from the foot of the mountain to Non Nuoc Pagoda is not far, it is mainly stone steps, and the mountain terrain is rugged, not flat, so you should be careful with every step. It is best to prepare a pair of comfortable and sturdy shoes to protect your feet.
- Although the caves are not too deep, to ensure safety, you should only go to places where there are people, not go alone, and go in groups.
- Do not go on rainy days because the mountain road is slippery and muddy. Instead, choose beautiful sunny days to combine with a visit to Non Nuoc Beach nearby or to the ancient town in the evening.
Non Nuoc Pagoda in Da Nang is an impressive destination within the scenic complex of Marble Mountains, where various unique architectures hold deep historical and spiritual values. The serene beauty intertwined with a hint of mystique and sanctity has attracted numerous visitors to Da Nang more and more. On a beautiful day, visit Non Nuoc Pagoda, wholeheartedly devoted to the Buddha to rid oneself of all worldly dust and strive towards goodness, kindness, and beauty.
