Phu Quoc boasts a renowned landmark that not only serves as the island's spiritual symbol but also enjoys a beautiful location with a sea-facing view and majestic natural scenery. This is Dinh Cau Phu Quoc. Every year, the Dinh Cau Festival is held here with many distinctive cultural activities. During your journey to Phu Quoc, it would be incomplete if you don't visit this place. To understand more about this spiritual destination, join Vietjet in exploring the following article!

A picturesque evening sunset scene at Dinh Cau Phu Quoc.

1. Who is Worshipped at Dinh Cau Phu Quoc? Introduction to Dinh Cau Phu Quoc

Dinh Cau Phu Quoc is a sacred shrine for the island's residents, centered around fascinating legends. According to these tales, the main hall of Dinh Cau worships the Jade Maiden and the two Guardians, Cau Tai and Cau Quy. Fishermen in Phu Quoc have long believed that these immortal beings protect them from fierce waves and storms, ensuring their safe and peaceful return after long sea voyages.

Historical records indicate that Dinh Cau Phu Quoc was built in the 17th century when the island's population was still sparse. During a major storm, many fishermen were fortunate to see a rocky outcrop emerging from the sea, allowing them to reach the shore quickly and find safe refuge. Since then, the locals established a shrine here, initially called Long Vuong Shrine. Over time, the shrine came to be known as Dinh Cau. To date, Dinh Cau has undergone two renovations, in 1937 and 1997.

• Opening Hours: 7:00 AM - 8:30 PM
  Admission Fee: Free

2. Exploring the Annual Dinh Cau Festival in Phu Quoc

2.1 When is the Dinh Cau Festival Held?

At Dinh Cau, every year on the 15th - 16th day of the 10th lunar month, the locals enthusiastically organize the Dinh Cau Festival, also known as the Dinh Cau Peace Offering Ceremony. The Dinh Cau Festival is a traditional event for the people of Phu Quoc. It is an occasion for island residents and tourists to gather, express their reverence to the immortal beings, the guardian gods of the island, and pray for the prosperity, good health, and peace of the community.

2.2 What Happens at the Dinh Cau Festival?

During the Dinh Cau Festival in Phu Quoc, visitors have the opportunity to experience a part of the local cultural and spiritual life. Like other traditional festivals, the Dinh Cau Festival is divided into two parts: the ceremonial part and the festive part. The solemn rituals conducted throughout the festival include the Yet Cau Ceremony, the Chanh Te Ceremony, and the Nghinh Cau Ceremony.

Additionally, the festive part is impressive with many distinctive activities and traditional games such as boat racing on the sea, duck catching in the sea, kẹo planking, sack jumping, pot smashing, and enjoying various cultural performances. The most unique activity is duck catching in the sea. Although it may sound simple, swimming in the sea with continuous and rolling waves requires participants to be very skillful and have the stamina to struggle and catch ducks to bring back home.

When visiting Phu Quoc during the Dinh Cau Festival, tourists are sure to have unforgettable memories witnessing the beautiful spiritual culture of the islanders.

The Dinh Cau Festival is held annually on the 15th - 16th day of the 10th lunar month.

Read more: 10+ New Tourist Destinations in Phu Quoc, Free and Super Interesting

3.Notable Features at Dinh Cau Phu Quoc

3.1 A Spiritual Sanctuary for Island Residents

Dinh Cau is a worship site visited by many locals and tourists. Every month, on the first day and the full moon, residents gather here to make offerings, light incense, and pray for peace. According to many local residents, whenever boats prepare for long voyages, newly built boats, or during bountiful fishing seasons, people come here to pray.

3.2 Exploring Centuries-Old Traditional Architecture

With an age of about 300 years, Dinh Cau possesses many ancient architectural features, deeply reflecting the style of northern temples. The most impressive aspect of Dinh Cau's architecture is its bright red curved roof tiles, intricately carved dragon patterns on the pillars, and the double dragon statue atop the main roof. Moreover, the image of a boat, a symbol of the island's maritime heritage and fishermen, is prominently placed at the center. Additionally, along the path to Dinh Cau, you will encounter a small green shrine with distinct dragon carvings, making a lasting impression.

Dinh Cau Phu Quoc is a sacred shrine for the island's residents.

3.3 Admiring the Beautiful Sunset Over Phu Quoc Sea at Dinh Cau

Dinh Cau is beautifully situated on a rocky outcrop facing the sea, allowing visitors to enjoy a panoramic view of the vast ocean and feel the refreshing sea breeze. Particularly during the late afternoon, as the sunset approaches, the scenery here transitions from blue to purple, resembling an endless natural painting. Watching the sunset at Dinh Cau brings a sense of tranquility and relaxation after a tiring day. If you have the chance to visit Phu Quoc, Dinh Cau is definitely a "must-visit" destination.

3.4 Dinh Cau Beach and Dinh Cau Night Market

Adjacent to Dinh Cau is Dinh Cau Beach, a place frequently visited by locals every afternoon. Although not as prominent as other beaches in Phu Quoc, Dinh Cau Beach has its own unique charm, being both rustic and serene. Phu Quoc residents choose Dinh Cau Beach as a place to relax and meet after a long day's work. Visiting this beach also allows you to experience a part of the spiritual and cultural life of the island's people.

Not far from Dinh Cau, the Dinh Cau Night Market is a shopping destination that tourists to Phu Quoc should not miss. Just about 100 meters from Dinh Cau, this bustling night market features numerous stalls and food vendors offering a variety of Phu Quoc specialties, snacks, souvenirs, and handcrafted items made from shells, oysters, and pearls.

Dinh Cau Beach

4.Tips and Precautions When Visiting Dinh Cau Phu Quoc

4.1  Ideal Time to Visit Dinh Cau Phu Quoc

Phu Quoc is located at the southernmost part of the country, experiencing distinct rainy and dry seasons. For the most convenient and ideal trip to the island, tourists should visit between November and June of the following year. This period coincides with the Dinh Cau Festival, featuring less rain, beautiful sunshine, relatively cool and pleasant weather, suitable for outdoor activities, beach bathing, and exploring tourist spots in Phu Quoc.

4.2 How to Get to Dinh Cau Phu Quoc

After arriving at Phu Quoc Airport or Phu Quoc Pier, you can choose from various transportation options to reach Dinh Cau. Currently, the roads in Phu Quoc are well-developed and paved, making travel easy. The available transportation options include motorbikes and taxis, with the following guidance:

• Motorbike: You can rent a motorbike to travel around the island for approximately VND 100,000 - 150,000 per day, depending on the type (automatic or manual). Simply refuel, and you can move around for the entire day.

• Taxi: This mode of transportation is relatively expensive, calculated based on the distance traveled, and you may not know the cost upfront.

• Ride-Hailing Services: You can conveniently book a ride through a mobile app and know the travel cost before deciding to book, helping you better manage your travel expenses.

4.3  Precautions When Visiting Dinh Cau Phu Quoc

Since Dinh Cau is a spiritual site, visitors should observe the following rules to maintain the sanctity of the place:

• Do not smoke or litter within the Dinh Cau area.

• Do not take photos inside the shrine.

• Do not eat or drink within the shrine area.

• Do not make loud noises, be disruptive, or cause disorder in the shrine area.

• Dress modestly, neatly, and respectfully.

• Avoid touching Buddha statues, shrines, and other sacred objects.

• Do not perform actions or use language that disrespects religious beliefs and practices.

Read more: How Much Does It Cost to Travel Independently in Phu Quoc?

If you are planning to visit the Emerald Island, Phu Quoc, make sure to include this spiritual destination in your travel itinerary. With its cultural beauty and unique architecture, Dinh Cau Phu Quoc is sure to offer valuable experiences for tourists. Once you have your plans to visit the island, prepare your flight tickets to Phu Quoc now for a convenient and complete trip. Don’t forget to grab your free Vietjet flights to Phu Quoc between 12 PM - 2 PM daily HERE.

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