Ho Quoc temple: A Spiritual Tourist Destination on the Pearl Island

Ho Quoc Temple, also known as Truc Lam Phu Quoc Monastery or Ho Quoc Pagoda, is one of the largest pagodas in the Mekong Delta. It is also a popular spiritual destination for many tourists, especially Buddhists from all over the world, when they have the opportunity to visit Phu Quoc Island.

When visiting this place, you will be able to enjoy the feeling of peace and tranquility, pray to the Buddha, or simply visit the pagoda and admire the architecture. Let’s join Rooty Trip to learn all the information about Ho Quoc temple Phu Quoc, including its location, history, architecture, and how to get to this destination quickly!

Ho Quoc temple Phu Quoc from the main hall to the sea

1. Introducing Ho Quoc temple (Truc Lam Ho Quoc Monastery)

1.1 Where is Ho Quoc temple located?

Ho Quoc temple, also known as Truc Lam Ho Quoc Monastery, is one of the most famous spiritual destinations in Phu Quoc. The pagoda attracts visitors thanks to its majestic architecture, sacred atmosphere, and peaceful setting surrounded by many trees.

• Address: Ap Suoi Lon, Duong To Commune, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province
• Location: Ho Quoc temple is located about 25km south of Duong Dong town on Phu Quoc Island. From Duong Dong, visitors can follow Nguyen Van Cu Street, then turn left onto Hung Vuong Street and continue for about 18km to reach the pagoda.
• Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM daily
• Area: 110 hectares (including the primeval forest area)

1.2 History of Ho Quoc temple

According to the abbot, the name “Ho Quoc” expresses the people’s aspiration for a pagoda that can protect the borders of Vietnam, especially the southern sea and islands, from dangers and invaders.

The history of Ho Quoc temple has gone through many memorable milestones, including:

• October 14, 2011: The pagoda officially started construction with an estimated area of all items of about 110 hectares.
• December 14, 2012: Ho Quoc temple was officially inaugurated after 14 months of construction.
• From 2013 to 2014: The pagoda continued to be built and completed other items to increase its aesthetics.
• From 2014 to now: Ho Quoc temple has been a place to preserve and promote the traditional Buddhist cultural values of Vietnam. At the same time, it is also a famous spiritual tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over to visit and pray.

Ho Quoc Temple

The entire pagoda system consists of 8 items: the Tam Bao Hall, the Ancestral Hall, the Drum Tower, the Bell Tower, the Tam Quan Gate, the Abbot’s House, the Monk’s House, and the Refectory.

It is known that Truc Lam Phu Quoc Monastery is the place where the Three Saints are worshiped in the Ancestral Hall, including Nhan Tong, Phap Loa, and Huyen Quang. They are the outstanding Zen masters of the Truc Lam Yen Tu school. The abbot of Ho Quoc temple is Thich Truc Thong Kien (or Venerable Thich Thong Kien).

2. Exploring the Architecture of Truc Lam Phu Quoc Monastery

Ho Quoc temple is one of the most famous pagodas in Phu Quoc. The pagoda is entirely built from precious lim wood – this type of wood has a lifespan of up to 1000 years.

2.1 Ly – Tran Dynasty Architecture

Ho Quoc temple is located on the slope of Hon Mot Mountain, with its back to the mountain and its face to the sea – an ideal position that bears the strong imprint of Ly Dynasty construction.

The architectural style of the pagoda is gentle and modest, creating a difference compared to European architecture and other Asian countries. The architecture does not have a sense of overwhelming people, but on the contrary, it brings a feeling of peace and purity. Under the Ly Dynasty, this type of architecture had a strong national character, reflecting the gentle nature of the Vietnamese people.

Besides, the pagoda also has a unique highlight that is the corridor leading to the pagoda is made in the style of a dragon from the Tran Dynasty. The dragon’s head is large, with clear hair and beard, especially the dragon scales are meticulously carved and the body is sinuous but extremely sturdy.

The corridor to the main hall is carved with the characteristics of the Tran dynasty dragon (Photo: Lao Dong Newspaper & Dai Viet Co Phong)

2.2 The Scenery of Ho Quoc temple

Tam Quan Gate: This is the first point that visitors set foot on when they come to Ho Quoc temple. The gate is built in traditional architecture with 3 doors: Dia Giap Door, Bat Nhi Door, and Giai Thoat Door, and on both sides are statues of Dharma Protectors.

The gate of Ho Quoc temple is designed similarly to the Tam Quan Gate with 3 parts

Sân Thiên Tỉnh: Located behind the Tam Quan Gate, this is where visitors can admire the entire view of Ho Quoc temple. The yard is paved with stone, surrounded by rows of green trees. Here, there is a 3m high Buddha statue made of marble.

The front yard of Truc Lam Phu Quoc Monastery

Jade Buddha statue at Ho Quoc temple Phu Quoc

Chính điện (Main Hall): Passing through 70 steps, you will reach the main hall, the most important area of the pagoda. The main hall is lavishly decorated with many statues of Buddha and Buddhist paintings.

The painting of 4 dragons at the entrance to the main hall of Truc Phu Quoc Monastery

Nhà thờ Tổ (Ancestral Hall): The place of worship for the patriarchs of the Truc Lam Yen Tu Zen sect (Nhan Tong, Phap Loa, Huyen Quang).

The ancestral hall of Truc Lam Phu Quoc Monastery

3. How to get to Ho Quoc temple?

Choosing the right means of transportation:

If you are in a small group, want to experience adventure and admire the majestic natural scenery, you should choose to rent a motorbike.On the other hand, a car will be the ideal choice for large groups, ensuring safety.

Directions:

• From Phu Quoc International Airport:

You follow Phu Quoc Highway to Provincial Road 46. Then continue for about 9km, turn left when you see Hoang Bach Resort.Continue straight for 1.3km, you will see Truc Lam Phu Quoc Monastery appear in front of you.

• From Duong Dong Ward:

First, move along Cach Mang Thang 8 Street.Next, turn right at the intersection with Provincial Road 45, then turn left onto Provincial Road 47. Go straight for 8km, turn left onto Provincial Road 46. Finally, follow the directions from Phu Quoc International Airport above to get to the Monastery.

• The monastery has its own parking lot for both motorbikes and cars, which is very convenient for visitors.

4. What to keep in mind for a fulfilling visit to Truc Lam Phu Quoc Monastery?

Entrance fee to Ho Quoc temple is FREE. Therefore, everyone has the opportunity to experience the wonderful spiritual space without having to pay any costs.

You should visit Ho Quoc temple in the dry season (November – April) when the weather is cool, with little rain, which is favorable for traveling and sightseeing. In the rainy season (May – October), the pagoda has a green scenery but there may be sudden showers, so you need to bring an umbrella.

If you want to participate in major activities at Ho Quoc temple, you can go on the following occasions:

• Vu Lan Festival (7th lunar month): A large festival that attracts many visitors to pray for the deceased.
• Buddha’s Birthday (4th lunar month): Commemorating the birth of Buddha Shakyamuni, many Buddhist activities are organized at this time.
• Lunar New Year: Ho Quoc temple is decorated lavishly, attracting visitors to pray for peace at the beginning of the year.

Buddhists chanting Buddha on a holiday at Hon Quoc Pagoda (Photo: baole_27)

When visiting the pagoda, you should pay attention to: Dress modestly and respectfully, in clothes that are suitable for a spiritual space. It is also recommended to bring slippers for convenience when walking around the pagoda.

Be respectful when visiting the pagoda by maintaining cleanliness, speaking softly, behaving politely, not pushing or shoving, and not taking photos without permission.

Vegetarian restaurant:Truc Lam Vegetarian Restaurant is located within the monastery grounds and serves light vegetarian dishes. It is the only vegetarian restaurant in the area.

• Google customer rating: 4.4/5 (29 reviews)
• Address: No. 426H+GVQ, Duong To, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang
• Phone number: +84 977 048 645
• Opening hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM daily
• Price: Free

Truc Lam Vegetarian Restaurant at Ho Quoc temple (Photo: Google Maps)

5. What other tourist attractions are near Ho Quoc temple?

After visiting Ho Quoc temple, many tourists choose to combine it with other nearby attractions to fully enjoy the beauty of Phu Quoc Island. Here are some places you should not miss if you have the opportunity to visit Ho Quoc temple:

• • Phu Quoc Prison Historical Relic:

The prison is located about 9.6 km from Truc Lam Phu Quoc Monastery, a 15-minute drive.

Phu Quoc Prison is an embodiment of historical value, a “living witness” to the indomitable spirit of our people. Here, visitors will hear historical stories and witness the hardships that our ancestors had to endure.

• Google customer rating: 4.3/5⭐ (7,622 reviews)
• Address: 350 Nguyen Van Cu Street, An Thoi, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang
• Entrance fee: Free
  • Sao Beach:

Sao Beach is located about 10.2 km from Ho Quoc temple, an 18-minute drive by car.

It is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Phu Quoc, known for its clear blue water, fine white sand, and fresh air. Admission to the beach is free, however there are some chargeable services such as sun loungers for about 60,000 VND/chair, and freshwater showers for 20,000 VND/shower.

• Google customer rating: 4.3/5⭐ (7,622 reviews)
• Address: Bai Sao Hamlet, An Thoi Ward, Phu Quoc City, Kien Giang Province
• Entrance fee: Free
  • Sunset Town:

Sunset Town is located about 13.4 km from Ho Quoc temple, a 22-minute drive.

It is considered a miniature Mediterranean in the heart of Phu Quoc due to its unique architecture, magnificent works, and harmony with the natural scenery. Visiting Sunset Town, visitors will be immersed in the vibrant and bustling atmosphere of festivals and events that take place throughout the year.

• Google customer rating: 4.6/5⭐ (293 reviews)
• Address: 22H4+XVH, An Thoi, Phu Quoc, Kien Giang 92513
• Entrance fee: Free

I hope this information about the location, architecture, and directions has helped you understand more about Ho Quoc Temple– the most sacred pagoda on the Jade Island.If you are looking for a quality Phu Quoc tour, don’t forget to check out the information at Rooty Trip. We ensure to bring you a wonderful time with your family, friends, and loved ones.