Luy Lau: The First Buddhist Center in Vietnam

Buddhism entered in a small country Vietnam and became a religion of the nation. Due to geographical position between India and China, Vietnam has been influenced immersed by both ancient civilizations. Historical evidences indicate that Indian brought Buddhism to Vietnam before it arrived from China. In fact, located in the center of the Red River Delta that is present Thuan Thanh district in Ha Bac province in Vietnam, Luy Lau was on the main trade route between India and China; therefore, Luy Lau naturally became a focus of different cultures and language. The Giao Chau language, Han characters, and Sanskrit were all used in trading and to spread Buddhism. Undoubtedly, Luy Lau became a favorable and prosperous resort for Indian pioneer missionaries to stay and preach the Buddhas Teachings before continuing their journey to the North.