But Pagoda, also known as "But Hon Bo Pagoda," located in Hoang Truong commune, Hoang Hoa district (Thanh Hoa province), stands out as a spiritual landmark attracting visitors on their journey to explore the coastal area of Hai Tien.

Nestled in a unique location with its back against Linh Truong Mountain and its front facing the Lach Truong Sea, But Pagoda was built on a cultural sediment layer dating back over a thousand years. Local people originally constructed a Buddhist altar next to a shrine honoring Saint To Hien Thanh.

Having weathered the passage of time, the pagoda was restored and officially reopened to the public in 2021. It quickly gained recognition as a spiritual destination on the tourist map of Hai Tien and Thanh Hoa.

But Pagoda features traditional Vietnamese Buddhist architecture combined with distinctive Khmer elements, creating a unique and striking appearance.

A notable highlight of the pagoda is its Three-Entrance Gate, painted primarily in yellow and white. The gently curved roof and the inscription “Ho Quoc” (“Protecting the Nation”) in Vietnamese atop the gate symbolize strength and solemnity. This gate stands as a protective icon for local coastal communities, believed to shield them from natural disasters and bring peace.

The pagoda complex includes various structures such as the Three-Entrance Gate, bell tower, drum tower, a blessing statue of Buddha Shakyamuni, a victory monument, monks’ quarters, a shrine to Saint To Hien Thanh, and a temple dedicated to the Whale God.

More than just a Buddhist place of worship, But Pagoda also venerates the Mother Goddess, illustrating the diverse fusion of spiritual beliefs and deep reverence for protective deities within the community.

A particularly sacred aspect of the pagoda is its preservation of a whale skeleton. Known locally as “Ca Ong” (Lord Whale), this revered sea creature is honored by fishermen who believe it watches over them during offshore journeys. The presence of the whale bones reflects the strong bond between fishing communities and their sea-centered spiritual practices.

Located next to Hon Bo Rock Beach - one of the most picturesque natural rock beaches in Hai Tien - But Pagoda is a favorite for travelers seeking a blend of spiritual pilgrimage and coastal exploration.

During Hai Tien’s beach tourism season from April to September, the pagoda receives a large influx of visitors. On the first and fifteenth days of the lunar month, as well as on special religious holidays, the pagoda attracts many Buddhist followers and tourists who come to offer incense and pray for peace and prosperity.

Le Duong