As a unique attraction in the charming coastal city of Vung Tau Vietnam, the Christ of Vung Tau truly is a must-see during your visit. Join Asia Legend Travel now for an unforgettable journey to discover the mystique and magnificence of this iconic Vung Tau Jesus statue, ensuring your visit is nothing short of extraordinary!
Overview of Christ of Vung Tau
The Christ of Vung Tau, also known as ‘Christ the King of Vung Tau’ or the ‘Statue of Christ the King’, is a Vung Tau statue of Christ that stands on Small Mountain (or Tao Phung Mountain), 176 meters (577 ft) above sea level. Built by the Vietnamese Catholic Church, the construction process started in 1974 and finished on December 2, 1994.
About dimensions, the Christ statue Vung Tau stands 32 meters (105 ft) tall and spans an area of about 10 hectares. With a 4-meter (13 ft) high platform, the total height of the Vung Tau Vietnam Jesus statue is 36 meters (118 ft). The statue’s outstretched arms measure 18.3 meters (60 ft) across. The structure of Jesus statue in Vung Tau houses a staircase of 133 steps that leads to both arms, allowing up to 100 visitors at a time.
In terms of appearance, the towering Vung Tau Christ statue, with its open arms, seems to embrace all living beings. Its face, intricately sculpted with a serene expression, looks out towards the vast ocean. Despite being made from concrete and steel, the Vung Tau Jesus statue appears remarkably vibrant and creative. Its posture, demeanor, facial expressions, and attire are all detailed and lifelike.
Since 2012, the Christ of Vung Tau has been acknowledged as the largest Christian statue in Asia. Following its restoration in 1993, Christ the King statue Vung Tau has become a major pilgrimage site for Christians across Vietnam as well as Christian vacationers.
The History of Christ of Vung Tau
The construction of Christ of Vung Tau was a period full of ups and downs, spanning from 1972 to 1994 and divided into two phases. The initial phase was carried out under the old Saigon administration, while the main phase was led by Father Dominique Nguyen Chu Trinh. On December 1, 1994, Bishop Paul Marie Nguyen Minh Nhat officially inaugurated the Jesus Christ statue Vung Tau, turning the site into a popular tourist destination in this coastal city.
The Journey to Christ of Vung Tau
Start your hike up Small Mountain, a climb of 811 steps, after parking your vehicle at its base. Along the trail, there are several rest stops and small vendors selling souvenirs and essentials like water, coffee, hats, and sandals. If you feel tired, take a break, drink some water, and continue your journey when you’re ready. Don’t forget to take pictures of the stunning views at the rest stops.
Upon arriving at the base of the Christ of Vung Tau, you can relax, admire the views of blooming flowers and the stunning sea, and enjoy the fresh air here. You’ll see a colossal architectural structure with impressive artistry and aesthetics, the Christ of Vung Tau. The statue, situated on a concrete base, is surrounded by two bas-reliefs – “The Last Supper” in the front and “The Delivery of the Keys to Saint Peter” at the back. You’ll also find a small statue of the Crucified Christ, a replica of the white Pieta statue, and ancient cannons that are over a century old.
To reach the statue’s shoulder, you must climb a spiral staircase of 133 steps within the statue. The stairs are narrow, allowing only one person at a time. Therefore, all belongings such as water bottles and bags must be left behind.
Upon reaching the statue’s arm, be prepared to wait for up to 10 minutes as a maximum of three visitors are allowed at once. From this viewpoint, you can appreciate the vast Back Beach and parts of Vung Tau city. It’s also an opportunity to make a wish for peace and goodness, as it’s believed that all wishes made here are fulfilled. Remember to capture the breathtaking panoramic view of Vung Tau city from this spot!
How to Get to Christ of Vung Tau
To visit the Christ statue in Vung Tau, you can divide the journey into two stages: travel to Vung Tau City and then travel to the Christ of Vung Tau.
Travel to Vung Tau
Vung Tau is approximately 100 kilometers away from Ho Chi Minh City. You can reach this beautiful coastal city in about three hours by riding a motorbike along Highway 51 from Ho Chi Minh City.
Besides, you could drive a private car or book a coach for about VND 150,000 per ticket. Another cost-effective option is taking the bus, but it may be less convenient as you would need to transfer between three bus routes to reach Vung Tau.
For a more unique travel experience, consider taking a speedboat or ferry from Ho Chi Minh City to Vung Tau. The ticket price is approximately VND 330,000 per person.
If you’re traveling from other provinces, you need to fly to Tan Son Nhat Airport in Ho Chi Minh City, then continue your journey to Vung Tau from there.
Travel to Christ of Vung Tau
From the center of Vung Tau city, it only takes about 10 minutes to ride a motorcycle along Thuy Van Road to reach the Christ of Vung Tau statue. There are plenty of motorcycle rental spots in Vung Tau, so transportation should not be a problem!
Tourist Spots nearby Christ of Vung Tau
After visiting the Christ the King statue, continue your exploration of Vung Tau with other attractions, which include:
- Small Mountain (or Tao Phung Mountain): As one of the two major mountains in Vung Tau, this mountain is home to various tourist sites.
- Vong Nguyet Beach: Recognized as one of the most beautiful Vung Tau beaches, it’s an ideal place for sightseeing.
- Vung Tau Lighthouse: Located on top of Small Mountain, this is one of the oldest lighthouses in Vietnam.
- Nghinh Phong Cape (Cape Saint James): One of the must-visit Vung Tau attractions, perfect for camping, photography, and sightseeing.
- White Palace Vung Tau: This ancient villa, built in 1898, served as a vacation spot for King Bao Dai, past presidents of Vietnam, and the Governor-General of Indochina.
- Pig Hill: A favored location in Vung Tau, known for its pristine beauty and exceptional views of the city.
- Hon Ba Island: A unique small island in Vung Tau, accessible by foot during the dry season.
- Thang Tam Temple: an ancient temple honoring the three brothers who were the original builders and managers of the area.
Practical Tips for Visitors
To make your exploration of the Christ of Vung Tau more enjoyable, follow these tips:
Some basic information about the Christ of Vung Tau
Location: The Christ of Vung Tau is located on Thuy Van Road, Ward 2, Vung Tau City, Vietnam.
Entrance fee: Free
Opening hours: 7 AM to 5 PM, Monday to Sunday. It is recommended to visit the Christ of Vung Tau on weekdays, as it’s typically less crowded, allowing more time to stand on the statue’s arm. Meanwhile, weekends are the time when a flock of tourists and pilgrims come to this landmark.
Best time to visit Vung Tau Christ the King
Vung Tau weather is divided into two main seasons: a wet season from May to October and a dry season from November to April. However, sometimes the wet season may extend into November. The dry season, with its mild sunshine and comfortable temperatures, is the ideal time to visit Vung Tau and Christ the King.
Moreover, it’s best to plan your visit either early in the morning or late in the afternoon, particularly after 3:30 pm, to avoid the harsh sun and make climbing the mountain easier. The morning is a favorite time for tourists as the weather is more pleasant and there’s more time for sightseeing.
Important notes
Please note the following tips for a fulfilling trip to Christ of Vung Tau:
- At the base of the Christ the King statue, there are two bas-reliefs: “The Last Supper” and “The Delivery of the Keys to Saint Peter.” These beautiful artworks are worth taking the time to admire.
- The halo around the statue’s head serves as a lightning rod. Do not touch it, as it can be dangerous.
- Dress appropriately. Shorts and short skirts, seen as disrespectful, are not allowed inside the statue.
- Please leave your shoes and personal belongings outside before entering the statue. They will be kept safe.
- Visitors typically get to stay on the statue’s hand for 5-10 minutes so everyone gets a turn.
- There is no entrance fee. For those who wish to contribute, donation boxes are available at specific locations.
- The motorcycle parking fee at the base of the mountain is optional, and it contributes to the yearly maintenance fund for the statue.
- Wear shoes that are comfy so you can move easily. It’s best not to wear high heels because they might make your feet hurt.
Perched in the popular tourist city of Vung Tau, the Christ of Vung Tau, which has stood the test of time, not only bears witness to the deep-rooted Catholic faith but also contributes substantially to the beauty and charm of Vung Tau. This masterpiece, with its awe-inspiring presence, plays a crucial role in the city’s spiritual and cultural identity. If you’re planning a trip to Vung Tau, make sure to include this mesmerizing landmark in your itinerary. It’s an experience you’re sure to treasure and remember!
