Thong Pagoda

09/12/2024 58 0
Narration

Thông Pagoda is located at the foot of the Xuân Đài mountain range in Vĩnh Ninh Commune, now known as Ninh Khang Commune, Vĩnh Lộc District, Thanh Hóa Province. It is one of the ancient pagodas that deeply embodies the culture and spirituality of the region.

Thông Pagoda, also known as Du Anh Pagoda, is an ancient structure situated at the foot of Xuân Đài Mountain. Built during the Lý Dynasty, the pagoda went through many historical upheavals and was left in ruins. In 1605, it was restored and completed. The front of the pagoda faces Trác Phong Mountain, with the Ngọc Hoàng Pavilion on the left and the Công Chúa Hermitage on the right. On either side of the pagoda, there are two ponds, Nhật Hồ and Nguyệt Hồ. Additionally, the pagoda preserves two stone statues of sacred animals—an elephant and a lion—from the Trần Dynasty, with carvings of a box and water wave patterns on their stone bases. The lion statue is placed at the pagoda’s entrance. To this day, the local people still use the saying: “The elephant kneels, the lion lies in wait on either side; Hồ Công is the best, with its name at the top.”


Image: Thông Pagoda, Vĩnh Lộc District, Thanh Hóa Province

The pagoda is surrounded by beautiful natural scenery, with towering pine trees that remain green throughout the year, creating a serene and peaceful atmosphere. The architecture of the pagoda reflects traditional style, featuring curved tiled roofs, intricately carved plaques and couplets, and majestic Buddha statues.

Thông Pagoda is not only a place for Buddhist devotees to come and pray, but also an ideal stop for those wishing to explore the culture, history, and customs of the people of Vĩnh Lộc. Every year, on the 9th day of the first lunar month, visitors from all directions and local residents eagerly attend the traditional spring festival held at the pagoda to fulfill their spiritual wishes, pray for favorable weather in the coming year, and enjoy the beauty of the Hồ Công cave. The festival lasts for two days, the 9th and 10th of the first lunar month, with both religious ceremonies and recreational activities, including ca trù singing, cock fighting, human chess, and bài điếm (a traditional game).

Image: Inside the Worship Area

With its ancient beauty, spiritual value, and historical significance, Thông Pagoda is an attractive destination, contributing to the preservation and promotion of the long-standing cultural traditions of Thanh Hóa. On January 28, 2004, Thông Pagoda was recognized as a Provincial Historical and Cultural Monument under Decision No. 255/QĐ-CT, categorized as a cultural and spiritual tourism site.

 

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