Asia's largest Buddhist swastika stone walls discovered in Hải Phòng's ancient pagoda
Cương Xá Pagoda in Hải Phòng City has been recognised as home to Asia’s largest system of stone walls engraved with the Buddhist swastika. The Asia Book of Records officially approved the title on April 27 this year. Known also as Quỳnh Khâu Tỳ, the pagoda stands on elevated ground near the former Cương Xá Village, drawing attention for its ancient craftsmanship and spiritual symbolism. The pagoda’s origins trace back centuries, with its first major restoration occurring under King Lê Thần Tông between 1607 and 1662. Recent excavations, however, uncovered even older foundations and bricks from China’s Eastern Han dynasty, roughly 2,000 years ago. These discoveries suggest a long and layered history.
In 1996, Venerable Thích Thanh Cường became abbot and later launched a full restoration in 2009. The project revitalised the 7,385-square-metre complex, including its signature stone walls. Built from green stone quarried at Nhồi Mountain in Thanh Hóa Province, each block bears a gilded swastika—nearly 3,000 in total. The carvings carry deep meaning. Lotus motifs at the base represent purity and enlightenment, while the swastikas above symbolise auspiciousness, linked to the 32 marks of Gautama Buddha. Five years ago, in August 2015, VietKings also recognised the pagoda as the first in Việt Nam to feature such engraved stone walls.
The Asia Book of Records’ recognition highlights the pagoda’s unique architectural and spiritual heritage. Its stone walls, ancient foundations, and symbolic carvings now stand as a protected cultural landmark. The site continues to attract visitors and scholars interested in its historical and religious significance.
