Buddhist temple LON VA, located in Davao city, is one of the largest Buddhist temples in the Philippines and the largest on the island of Mindanao. It is on Avenue Cabaguio 3-4 km North-East from the city center. 500 metres away stands Taoist temple, but because he is behind a fence, tourists rarely visit it. But LON VA is one of the main tourist attractions of the city – it is unique because it is one of the few Buddhist temples in the territory of the predominantly Muslim region. In Mindanao Buddhism started to spread in the 7th century B. C. – evidence of this was found by the archaeologists. With the advent of on the island the Spaniards, was well introduced Christianity here, the number of followers of Buddhism has decreased significantly today there are only about 3% of the total population of Mindanao.

The guests at the entrance of the temple meets the statue of the smiling Buddha, quietly welcoming visitors. The stairs to the temple guarded by sculptures of lions, a traditional Buddhist protection from evil spirits. Simple architecture of the temple itself with a green roof and grey walls gives it a very charming and serene look. Inside on the walls of Italian marble, you can see the words of the prayers, which optionally can pronounce. Around the temple is a small cosy garden with palm trees and exotic flowers and walking paths, lined with ordinary stones. Traditional Lily pond is a real decoration of the garden.

Monks and nuns also live on site LON VA – when you meet them it is customary to greet with a slight nod. Sometimes you can see the Chinese students in monastic garb, praying before the statue of Buddha and sing ceremonial songs. Interesting detail - in contrast to the Taoist temple, inside LON VA to take pictures.