Constructed in 1850, the beautiful Vinh Trang Pagoda is one of the most impressive, famous pagodas in the Mekong Delta region. This exquisite temple is located roughly 3 km/1.8 miles from My Tho’s city center and has two acres of stunning property.

With fruit trees and manicured gardens surrounding the main building, along with several styles of architecture from other cultures, Vinh Trang Pagoda is a must-see attraction for anyone passing by the area.

Buddha Statues

The Reclining Buddha. Photo: Harry and Rowena Kennedy

The shrine features three giant Buddha statues on the property.

The Standing Buddha – This statue stands for Amitabha Buddha, who represents the epitome of compassion and peace.
The Laughing Buddha – This Buddha represents happiness, wealth, and luck. The laughing version of Buddha is the one most recognized worldwide for good fortune.
The Reclining Buddha – Reclining Buddha symbolizes Gautama Buddha, who is known for reaching nirvana during his lifetime and is free from the cycle of rebirth and death, also known as “samsara.”

Temple Grounds

Vinh Trang Pagoda. Photo: Joe Schulz

The Vinh Trang Pagoda comprises five buildings and two courtyards, which include 178 gorgeously designed pillars. There are also more than 60 statues made from various materials, including wood, terracotta, copper, and a large bell cast in the mid-19th century. The gates on the side have porcelain mosaics that tell Buddhist stories, along with a life-sized statue of the Jade Emperor.

History

Vinh Trang Pagoda in Feb 1989. Photo: TommyJapan1

District chief Bùi Công Đạt is the one who organized the Pagoda’s construction with the help of a monk by the name of Thích Từ Lâm, who saw it to its completion. During the early 20th century, a powerful storm blew through My Tho and caused unrepairable damage to the temple, so it was rebuilt in 1907.

In the early 1900s, more statues and gates were added to the property throughout the years. Today, it is a tourist attraction for travelers and pilgrims, but it’s also the office for the board of the provincial Buddhist Association of Tiền Giang Province.