1. Overview of Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc

1.1. Location of Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc

Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc is located at 7 Tran Hung Dao Street, Duong Dong Ward. It is one of the most famous pagodas on the Pearl Island and very accessible thanks to its convenient location, just about 600m away from popular attractions like Dinh Cau, and about 450m from Dinh Ba Thuy Long Thanh Mau. From the center of Duong Dong Ward, visitors only need a few minutes by motorbike or taxi to reach this pagoda.

Sung Hung Ancient Pagoda - A famous spiritual point in the heart of Phu Quoc 

1.2. The long history of Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc

Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc is one of the most ancient pagodas on the Pearl Island, deeply rich in historical and spiritual value. Initially, this area was a primitive cemetery. Later, the locals built two small pagodas named Hung Nhan Tu and Sung Nghia Tu. Eventually, both pagodas were merged, taking the name Sung Hung Ancient Pagoda.

Important milestones:

• Late 19th century: The pagoda was formed from the merger of two small pagodas.
• 1924: Venerable Tinh Nghia first conducted renovations.
• 1960: Venerable Thich Hue Chanh continued with major renovations, improving the entire structure, including installing yin-yang roof tiles and building solid brick walls.

The formation and development of the pagoda clearly reflects the faith and spiritual life of Phu Quoc residents throughout different periods.

1.3. Worship statues and sacred spaces at Sung Hung Pagoda

Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc is a harmonious combination of folk beliefs and Buddhism, creating a special worship space:

Within the grounds:

• Worship of Ba Chua Xu Nuong Nuong – symbol of protection and guardianship.
• Worship of national hero Nguyen Trung Truc – a person with great contributions in the fight against France.

Main hall:

• Worship of the Three World Buddhas, including: Amitabha Buddha, Mahasthamaprapta Bodhisattva, Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva.
• On both sides of the main hall are altars for the Ten Kings of Hell and the Five Kings of Hell.

Since the passing of President Ho Chi Minh, the monks at Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc have maintained the ritual of offering rice to Uncle Ho at noon every day. This is a special cultural feature, expressing gratitude and respect for the great leader.

The long history and diverse worship spaces make Sung Hung Pagoda an attractive spiritual destination not only for Buddhists but also for tourists who love to explore culture and history.

1.4 Unique ancient architecture of Sung Hung Pagoda

Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc is one of the most distinctive ancient architectural works, showcasing the harmonious beauty between nature and humans. The pagoda is not only a spiritual destination but also a valuable architectural artwork.

Overall architecture:

• The pagoda is situated on a small hill, facing north, with a view of the bustling market.
• The pagoda grounds are surrounded by green trees, providing a cool, peaceful atmosphere.
• The structures within the pagoda are arranged in tiers, creating a majestic, solemn appearance.

Ancient and exquisite architecture of Sung Hung Pagoda (Image: collection)

Three-door Gate:

• Designed with height, covered with undulating tiles.
• The bas-relief of two dragons fighting for a pearl is intricately carved, displaying grandeur.

Interior space:

• In the middle of the courtyard stands a statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva on a water pond, symbolizing compassion and wisdom.
• On both sides of the courtyard are the symmetrical East and West corridors, creating a sense of balance and harmony.
• The main hall and worship areas are decorated with horizontal panels and couplets in red and gold, both solemn and splendid.
• The statues of Buddha, Bodhisattvas, and deities are crafted from plaster, bronze, and wood, showcasing the intricacy of traditional sculpting art.

Main hall of Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc

The architecture of Sung Hung Pagoda is a perfect combination of traditional style and characteristic features of local culture, captivating any visitor.

2. Trai Dan Festival at Sung Hung Ancient Pagoda - A unique spiritual cultural feature

The Trai Dan Festival is one of the most important and prominent events at Sung Hung Pagoda, attracting numerous Buddhists and tourists each year.

Time of organization: The festival takes place on the 30th day of the 7th lunar month annually.

Significance:

• The festival aims to pray for the souls of those without worshippers, helping them achieve transcendence.
• It is also an occasion to pray for peace, health, and luck for the living.

Notable rituals:

• Kung Fu: A ceremony of chanting sutras for the deceased at the main hall.
• Inviting Tieu Dien Thuong Gian: A unique ritual only available at Sung Hung Pagoda.
• Dong Dan: The main ceremony with solemn rituals for praying for the deceased.

Highlight activities:

• Lanterns with "keo quan" (pulling soldiers) are displayed throughout the pagoda grounds. These lanterns have candles lit inside, creating a brilliant and sacred atmosphere, symbolizing the light guiding souls back to the pagoda.
• After the festival, visitors can enjoy vegetarian feasts prepared by Buddhists, featuring the pure and characteristic flavors of the island.

Trai Dan Festival at Sung Hung Ancient Pagoda

3. Detailed experience when visiting Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc

3.1. Directions to Sung Hung Pagoda

Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc is located right in the center of Duong Dong Ward, making it very easy for tourists to access from various directions:

• From Phu Quoc Airport: With a distance of about 10km, tourists can choose taxi or motorbike, taking only about 20 minutes along Tran Hung Dao Street to reach the pagoda.
  
• From Bai Vong Port: About 15km, tourists will follow the Duong Dong – Ham Ninh route and then turn onto Tran Hung Dao Street.
  
• Route from Duong Dong center: Follow Cach Mang Thang 8 Street to provincial road 973, continue to Nguyen Trung Truc and turn onto 30/4 Street. Here, you turn onto Tran Hung Dao and will see Sung Hung Pagoda on your right.

3.2 Opening hours and admission fees

Opening hours: From 07:00 - 19:00, the pagoda operates all week, so you can flexibly arrange your itinerary. Admission fee: Completely free.

Grounds of Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc

3.3. Notes when visiting Sung Hung Pagoda in Phu Quoc

To have a meaningful and complete experience at Sung Hung Pagoda, you should note the following:

• Visitors need to maintain a respectful attitude towards the sacred space of the pagoda and dress appropriately when entering worship areas.
• Ideal visiting time: In the morning, when the weather is cool, the air is fresh, suitable for sightseeing and worship. If you want to participate in the Trai Dan Festival or spiritual activities, visit in the 7th lunar month.

3.4. Suggestions for visiting nearby attractions

After visiting the pagoda, you can combine your trip with famous nearby attractions to fully enjoy your journey:

• Dinh Ba Thuy Long Thanh Mau: A sacred worship site with many mysterious stories.
• Phu Quoc Night Market: Not far from the pagoda, where you can enjoy local specialties and buy souvenirs.
• Dinh Cau: A spiritual symbol and a beautiful sunset viewing spot.

Dinh Cau Phu Quoc - A structure bearing deep historical imprints