The Beauty of Visiting the Pagoda at Lunar New Year

Following the flow of pilgrims to Co Thach Pagoda in Lien Huong Commune to pray for prosperity and health for their loved ones, visitors can easily spot not only local vehicles but also many from nearby provinces and cities coming to pay their respects.

Ms. Huynh Thi Huong, visiting with her family from Dong Nai for the last two days, said: “We decided to come here to offer incense and pray during the first lunar month, taking advantage of the quieter time in our business. Just as we were told, the beauty of this place is truly enchanting. Each cave and small shrine dedicated to the Buddha is a stone grotto crafted by human hands, creating a sacred and mystical site for worship.”

Compared with many other pagodas, it is modest in scale yet retains a distinct and unspoiled charm. Situated within caves on a gentle hillside over 64 meters above sea level, Co Thach Pagoda seems to blend into its natural surroundings, like a magical retreat. Surrounded by sunlight year-round, the site enjoys a refreshing climate, subtly influenced by the salty ocean breeze. The seamless integration of landscaping, architecture, and sculpture, along with the thoughtfully organized worship areas, contributes to its tranquil, sacred atmosphere. As a result, many visitors experience a profound sense of peace upon reaching this sacred site.

According to the Management Board of Binh Thanh Tourist Area, the number of visitors coming to the pagoda at the beginning of the year increases significantly compared to regular days, requiring close coordination to ensure security, public order, traffic safety, and fire prevention. During the spring season, the management board carefully assigns duty schedules and requests that service households improve service standards, maintain a civilized and courteous image, and create positive impressions so that visitors leave with a sense of satisfaction and comfort.

A Cultural Tradition of the Vietnamese People

With a history spanning several centuries, numerous pagodas and communal houses in the province's southeastern region continue to preserve royal decrees issued by the Nguyen Dynasty kings. These revered artifacts have consistently served as spiritual focal points for local communities in their efforts to establish and defend their land. This rich heritage stands as an invaluable resource in showcasing Vietnam’s cultural identity to the world, supporting the development of services and tourism.

At renowned spiritual sites such as Nui Ta Cu Pagoda in Ham Thuan Nam Commune, Ong Pagoda, Phat Quang Pagoda in Phan Thiet Ward, and Thanh Minh Tu in Phu Thuy Ward, many Buddhists and visitors have gathered since the start of the Lunar New Year to burn incense, admire the scenery, and capture beautiful moments while wearing traditional ao dai. In the serene surroundings and stunning natural landscapes, listening to Buddhist teachings and cultural stories appears to rejuvenate visitors, fostering a sense of peace and renewed vitality.

With her hands clasped in prayer while offering incense at Thanh Minh Tu Pagoda, Ms. Nguyen Thi Son from Phu Thuy Ward expressed: “Every time I visit the pagoda, I feel a sense of calm and lightness, as if the worries and burdens of life have been lifted.”

Finding refuge in the Buddha and seeking inner tranquility also encourage people to nurture their virtues and follow the honorable path. Consequently, most visitors are mindful of keeping cleanliness and protecting the surrounding environment. The previous issues of overcrowding or excessive incense offerings beyond permitted levels have ceased, and worshippers consistently demonstrate reverence and solemnity.

Visiting pagodas not only helps Vietnamese people preserve their traditional cultural identity and honor their ancestors, but also guides them toward truth, goodness, and beauty, encouraging meaningful contributions to family and society.