Located in Binh An ward, Di An district, Binh Duong, which is 30km away from the center of Ho Chi Minh city, Châu Thới Mountain pagoda is wisely known as a wonderful landscape in the middle of a large delta. Furthermore, it was as National Heritage Landscapes on 21 April, 1989.
This pagoda was named after Châu Thới Mountain, on which it is built. From a distance, people can be caught the image of the pagoda at an altitude of 82m (above the sea), behind green trees and surrounded by many beautiful artificial lakes. There are two roads leading to Châu Thới pagoda: the first one is by walking up 220 cement steps, while the other is to drive a bit further and then go by road for vehicles directing to the mountain.
There is a large lake at the foot of the mountain surrounded by poetic landscapes. Standing at the pagoda yard, you can see the scenery of the areas around Bien Hoa city and the surrounding Dong Nai river.
The architecture of the central part consists of the main hall, Ancestral home, Goddess of Mercy temple, Linh Son Thanh Mau temple, Dieu Tri Kim Mau and Ngu Hanh Nuong Nuong temple (belonging to folk beliefs) and Jade Emperor temple. The roof structure of the main hall follows the style of four statues. Châu Thới pagoda owns ancient architecture together with an attractive yellow tone. At the end of the blades of the roof, there are some dragons covered by pieces of ceramic. At the top of the roof, there are nine dragons looking towards many directions. Besides, the facade of the pagoda is also covered with ceramics creating various forms such as the four spirits, the Buddha’s birth … There are many artificial lakes, flora and rocky mountains Surrounding the temple and all create a deserted but poetic landscape.
The outstanding feature of this pagoda is the statue of the Guan Yin sitting on a throne of lotus, holding a willow branch to sprinkle the divine nectar. On full moon day, the first day, holidays or festivals, Châu Thới pagoda is always crowded with tourists to visit and worship the Buddha.
Lying on a beautiful location where the mountains and rivers harmonize, Châu Thới pagoda is known as the most attractive spiritual tourist destination in Binh Duong. From the pagoda, you can see the whole area at the mountain foot, the green patches of trees, peaceful rivers and busy people in daily life as well.
Restored many times as it has been, the pagoda still remains its originally ancient architecture, harmonizing with the elegant, tranquil landscape. Coming here, you can enjoy the fresh air, the sound of birds singing, the sound of the wind blowing gently and bells from the temple. Consequently, you will feel calm and relaxed as if you already get rid of all pressure of daily life.
