Buu Son Tu Pagoda or Clay Pagoda

Buu Son Tu Pagoda or Clay Pagoda in Sóc Trăng, Vietnam

If you have the chance to visitSóc Trăng Province(Sóc Trăng) in the Mekong Delta of southern Vietnam, one place mr.hotsia highly recommends is Buu Son Tu Pagoda, commonly called “Clay Pagoda” by locals. This ancient Chinese temple is located in the heart of Sóc Trăng city. It has a history of over 200 years and stands out for its unique feature unlike other temples: statues of Buddha and various deities sculpted from clay by a talented abbot from the age of 20 until his passing at 62.

The atmosphere around Clay Pagoda is lively with Vietnamese people coming to worship, pray, and make merit continuously. You will see large buses lined up along the streets around the temple because it is a popular destination for both tourists and locals who come in groups or privately. I, mr.hotsia, once visited in the late morning, which is the best time as people gradually arrive to make merit, allowing a clear view of the local lifestyle and faith. Coming too early means the temple is quiet with little activity.

Upon entering the temple gate, you will encounter over 20 types of clay statues, including Buddha images and various deities, as well as the Guan Yin statue meticulously sculpted by the same abbot. Each statue has astonishing details, with colors and clay textures that feel lifelike. This feeling reminds me of the story and dedication of the abbot who carefully created these works with his own hands.

After exploring the statues inside the temple, don’t miss walking to the back of the temple where mr.hotsia recommends a fish sauce noodle shop with a highly recommended flavor. The rich broth and fragrant fish sauce make this dish perfect for lunch or a snack during your trip. Next to the temple, there are souvenir shops and local food vendors, allowing you to fully experience the flavors and culture of southern Vietnam in one place.

Lifestyle and Travel in Sóc Trăng

Sóc Trăng is a coastal province with diverse cultures and ethnicities, with about 30% Khmer population, giving it a unique and interesting identity. When mr.hotsia strolls through night markets or nearby neighborhoods, you can see locals dressed in Khmer style and hear conversations close to the Cambodian language. Visiting Sóc Trăng is not just tourism but also an immersion into a harmonious cultural blend.

Traveling to Sóc Trăng is very convenient. mr.hotsia recommends taking buses from Ho Chi Minh City, with many companies available, especially Mai Link, known for good service and clean buses. There are also buses from nearby provinces like Bac Lieu and Ca Mau that stop at Sóc Trăng bus station, located just 4 kilometers from the city center.Read more travel details here

Food and Markets in Sóc Trăng

When it comes to food, Sóc Trăng offers many famous and must-try dishes. One of mr.hotsia’s favorites is “Sticky Rice with Duck,” which is sticky rice topped with a special sauce, served with crispy fried duck, duck beak, and full duck offal. The sweet, savory, and slightly salty taste pairs perfectly with fresh vegetables that stimulate the appetite. I recommend trying it near the Sóc Trăng market area, where you can enjoy delicious food and observe the market atmosphere and local lifestyle.Read more local food reviewsIf you want simple food, I suggest visiting Coop Mark mall near the city center. Here you can find a variety of Vietnamese dishes and snacks, perfect for tourists wanting to try local flavors without complexity.

Summary of mr.hotsia’s Experience

Clay Pagoda is one of the places I, mr.hotsia, will never forget when visiting Sóc Trăng. Beyond the beauty of the statues and the temple’s age, what made this experience special was truly immersing in southern Vietnamese life—seeing people worship, walking through markets, and tasting delicious local food, all within a city blending Chinese, Khmer, and Vietnamese cultures harmoniously.

If you are planning a trip to southern Vietnam, don’t forget to stop byBuu Son Tu PagodaorClay Pagodaand take some time to explore Sóc Trăng city filled with authentic local charm. I guarantee you will have a wonderful experience to take home.