Non Nuoc pagoda in the Soc temple complex in Soc Son district (Photo: VOV2)

Non Nuoc pagoda is dedicated to Saint Giong, one of the four immortals of Vietnamese folklore, revered for his legendary feat of defeating the northern invaders during the reign of the 6th Hung King (1972–1632 BC).

According to feng shui principles, the pagoda is built on land symbolizing a reclining dragon and tiger, a location believed to bring harmony and power. The majestic main hall spans 260 square meters, with a soaring 14-meter-high ceiling. The pagoda was constructed from 600 cubic meters of ironwood and 300 cubic meters of marble, and 30 tons of bronze were used to cast its huge Buddha statue.

The roof features an intricate dragon motif at every corner. The giant dragon heads have big horns, sharp teeth, and piercing eyes—symbols of power and authority.

Inside the main hall, 80 towering ironwood pillars, each 13 meters tall and 35 centimeters in diameter, stand as a testament to the pagoda’s grandeur and timeless craftsmanship. Venerable Thich Khai Tuan, the head of Non Nuoc pagoda, said: “The pagoda is designed with a front hall dedicated to worshiping Buddha and a back hall honoring the ancestral monks who founded the pagoda.”

At the heart of Non Nuoc pagoda is Vietnam’s largest bronze statue of Buddha Tathagata. This magnificent statue was cast as a single piece that weighs 30 tons and sits 6.5 meters tall.

Statue of Buddha Tathagata in Non Nuoc pagoda (Photo: VOV2)

The first Zen master to serve as abbot of Non Nuoc pagoda was Ngo Chan Luu, who died in 1011, a descendant of Ngo Quyen, the first king of the Ngo Dynasty in Vietnam. In 971, King Dinh Tien Hoang honored him with a prestigious royal title, recognizing his spiritual influence. He became the first Zen master in Vietnam to be granted the esteemed title of National Master Tang Thong, the highest honor of both religious and secular life.

Monk Thich Khai Thuong said, “According to the ancient book Thien Uyen Tap Anh, when Saint Giong retreated to Ve Linh Mountain for seclusion, he dreamed of a Buddhist patron predestined by Vaisravana to aid him in spreading the Buddha Dharma. The next morning, upon ascending the mountain, he saw a tree shrouded in five-colored clouds. He cut down the tree and carved a statue of Vaisravana Sa Mon Thien Vuong. The pagoda built in his honor was named Soc Vaisravana pagoda.”

The Vietnam Buddhist Academy, the largest monastic training institution in the country, was built within the Non Nuoc pagoda complex. Le Huu Dung, a local resident, said, “Non Nuoc pagoda boasts a picturesque landscape with a tranquil pond, surrounded by gentle mountains and lush greenery. Visiting this sacred place brings a sense of relaxation, serenity, and peace.”

Within the Non Nuoc pagoda complex, visitors can explore numerous historical and spiritual landmarks, including Trinh temple, dedicated to the Deity of Soc Mountain; the Mother Goddess Temple, honoring Saint Giong’s mother; Thuong Temple, which worships Saint Giong; the Vietnam Buddhist Academy; and the Saint Giong Monument.