Sung Hung Pagoda: Explore the oldest pagoda in Phu Quoc

Contents

Sung Hung Ancient Pagoda in Phu Quoc attracts numerous visitors annually (Source: Collected)

1. Overview of Sung Hung Pagoda

1.1. Location

• Location: 7 Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong Ward, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province

Sung Hung Pagoda is a significant spiritual site in Phu Quoc Located near many other landmarks, the pagoda is only 450 meters away from the Dinh Ba Thuy Long Thanh Mau and approximately 600 meters away from Dinh Cau.

1.2. History

Sung Hung Pagoda was formed by merging Hung Nhan Pagoda and Sung Nghia Pagoda. The exact founding date is unclear, but it is known to have existed since the 19th century. The pagoda was renovated in 1924 with tiled roofs, and again in 1960 with dual-tile roofs. Since then, it has maintained its original appearance without further renovations.

Sung Hung Pagoda honors the Lady of Realm, alongside national heroes Ho Chi Minh and Nguyen Trung Truc. Additionally, the pagoda has altars dedicated to the Buddhas of the Three Worlds and the Deities of Hell.

During the wars, this place functioned as a covert communication hub for the revolutionaries. For more than 40 years, the pagoda has honored President Ho Chi Minh by offering midday meals, a tradition that started after his passing in 1969. Venerable Abbot Thich Hue Thong describes these offerings as a profound gesture of respect towards the late President, with solemn ceremonies regularly held in his honor.

Sung Hung Pagoda retains its original charm (Source: Collected)

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2. Stunning architecture of Sung Hung Pagoda

Sung Hung Pagoda Phu Quoc presents a striking ancient beauty through its architecture, seamlessly blending with the lush surrounding greenery.

• The triple-arched gate features curved tiles and intricate bas-reliefs. The pagoda’s name appears in both Vietnamese and Chinese scripts on the gate, while the four pillars at the gate display charming Chinese couplets.
• The pagoda grounds feature a serene statue of Bodhisattva Avalokitesvara atop tranquil waters, alongside a flagpole bearing a poignant Chinese couplet. Further inside are shrines honoring Nguyen Trung Truc and the Lady of Realm.
• The main hall features large statues made from plaster, bronze, and wood. These statues are remarkable for their intricate details. The hall honors the Buddhas of the Three Worlds, creating a captivating spiritual center.

3. Trai Dan Festival at Sung Hung Pagoda, Phu Quoc

Trai Dan Festival occurs annually on the 30th of the seventh lunar month. It is a sacred vegetarian ceremony dedicated to praying for the spirits of the departed who have no living relatives to honor them.

On the days leading up to the festival, the locals distribute donations to the needy, while boat owners prepare cakes and fruits for the main event. During the final two days of the seventh lunar month, the festival showcases vibrant traditions like incense offering, martial arts displays, lion dances, and ancient games. Inside the shrine, people light candles to seek blessings.

Besides these rituals, visitors at Trai Dan Festival can also enjoy various other activities such as praying for peace and sampling vegetarian dishes. These activities are considered among the best things to do in Phu Quoc.

Trai Dan Festival is a highlight of Sung Hung Pagoda Phu Quoc (Source: Collected)

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4. Useful tips for a trip to Sung Hung Pagoda

Here are some essential tips for a memorable trip to Sung Hung Pagoda Phu Quoc:

4.1. How to get there?

To reach Sung Hung Pagoda on Phu Quoc Island, you can use personal transport such as a motorbike or car. Or, you can take a bus for convenience and cost saving.

• By motorbike/car: If you are departing from the center of Duong Dong Ward, you can take Cach Mang Thang 8 Street to Provincial Road 973 and head towards Nguyen Trung Truc Street. Then, turn onto Street 30/4 and continue onto Tran Hung Dao Street. After a short distance, you will see Sung Hung Pagoda on your right side.

• By bus: Travelers seeking budget-friendly options can opt for the service of VinBus. Aiming to enhance public transport and minimize pollution, VinBus promises a seamless travel experience for just 7,000 VND. You can choose bus numbers 17 and 19 to Sung Hung Pagoda, or click HERE for the detailed schedule and ticket pricing.

4.2. What to note?

• Choose respectful attire suitable for a sacred site. Avoid wearing revealing clothes.
• Maintain a solemn demeanor.
• Refrain from wearing shoes inside the main hall 
• Respect the environment. Don’t litter.

Dress respectfully when visiting Sung Hung Pagoda (Source: Collected)

All in all, Sung Hung Pagoda is a peaceful spiritual retreat away from the city’s bustle. It offers a serene environment for you and your family to relax and admire its magnificent architecture. 

Don’t forget that the Pearl Island of Phu Quoc has many other interesting attractions awaiting your exploration. You can visit the lively Phu Quoc Night Market, relax at Dinh Cau Beach, or delve into history at Coi Nguon Museum. 

For nature enthusiasts, Vinpearl Safari Phu Quoc is an ideal place to explore, which is the first semi-wildlife conservation park in Vietnam. Meanwhile, Grand World Phu Quoc is a huge entertainment complex that offers non-stop activity. Especially, don’t miss out on VinWonders Phu Quoc, the largest theme park in Vietnam. It has various themed zones offering all sorts of modern games and cultural shows.

To make your trip in Phu Quoc even more memorable, consider staying at Vinpearl Phu Quoc. This luxurious complex offers top-notch facilities and amenities, including elegant rooms, gourmet dining options, rejuvenating spas, and much more. 

VinWonders Phu Quoc caters to all recreational needs

Book rooms in Vinpearl Phu Quoc and tickets of VinWonders Phu Quoc to enjoy a flawless retreat!