On the morning of May 3, 2026, in Hai Phong, Cuong Xa Pagoda was officially awarded an Asian Record Certificate by the Asia Book of Records. The pagoda achieved this distinction for housing the largest number of Swastika (Van) engravings on a pagoda’s stone wall system.
Spread across a 7,385 square metre complex, the pagoda’s architectural grandeur is defined by its meticulously constructed stone wall system. Built using 2,210 green stone blocks sourced from Nhoi Mountain (Thanh Hoa Province), each stone measures 40 cm × 30 cm × 35 cm and weighs approximately 80 kg. These stones are arranged in spiritually significant rows of 108, symbolising harmony and balance in Buddhist philosophy.
Of the total, 1,886 stones are intricately engraved with the Swastika (Van) symbol and gilded with gold leaf, creating a visually striking and spiritually resonant structure. The lower rows of the walls are adorned with lotus carvings, further enhancing the sacred aesthetic and symbolic richness of the pagoda.
Dating back to its renovation in 1627 during the reign of King Le Vinh To, Cuong Xa Pagoda reflects centuries of cultural continuity and devotion. Designed in the traditional “Công” architectural layout, the complex includes multiple halls dedicated to ancestral worship, the Mother Goddess, and the Buddha, along with heritage elements such as ancient steles, statues, and sacred trees that have endured through time.
A defining feature of the pagoda is its harmonious blend of architectural scale, sculptural precision, and Buddhist symbolism, making it a unique spiritual landmark. The structure is further complemented by 18 massive ironwood pillars, valuable statues including that of Shakyamuni Buddha, and intricately crafted religious artefacts.
Previously recognised by the Vietnam Record Organization in 2015 as the first pagoda in Vietnam with such a stone wall system, the site has now received continental acclaim. On May 3, 2026, during the inauguration of the Song Son Vong Tu Bell Tower, the Asia Book of Records officially conferred the Asian Record title, marking a significant milestone in the recognition of Vietnamese cultural heritage.
The ceremony was attended by distinguished leaders of VietKings, including Nguyen Huu Oanh, Hoang Thai Tuan Anh, Nguyen Thi Tuong Van, and Pham Thi Van, along with other representatives.
This achievement not only highlights the artistic and spiritual significance of Cuong Xa Pagoda but also reinforces its role as an emerging cultural and tourism destination, contributing to the promotion of Vietnamese heritage and Buddhist values across Asia.