Dinh Bà Phú Quốc: The Most Comprehensive Account of the Legend of the Water Dragon Holy Mother

Dinh Bà: A Sacred Beauty in Phú Quốc

Dinh Bà Phú Quốc—a famous and sacred tourist destination on the “Pearl Island.” Also known as Dinh Bà Thủy Long Thánh Mẫu or simply Dinh Bà, it is located in the Dương Đông area of Special Zone Phú Quốc. Dinh Bà is dedicated to Thủy Long Thánh Mẫu, a goddess revered by the island’s residents for her role in pioneering the settlement and protecting the people since the island’s early days; the site also exudes an ancient and majestic aura, symbolizing the unique cultural and religious traditions of the local people. Phu Quoc. When visiting this place, tourists will learn about legends and ancient customs, while also feeling the respect and gratitude of the people towards this deity.

Dinh Ba Phu Quoc Cong Tam Quan
Dinh Bà Phú Quốc – Three-Gate Arch

The Origins and Legend of Dinh Bà Phú Quốc

According to legend, Thuy Long Thanh Mau was originally from the royal family of Cao Miên (present-day Cambodia). Following a political upheaval, she left her homeland and sought refuge on Island Phú Quốc. On that uncharted land, she cleared a vast field for the herd of buffalo she had brought with her, while also recruiting people to cultivate the land and grow crops, transforming the area into a new source of livelihood.

Traces of the early days of establishment are still imprinted on today's landscape: that field is called Ba Field by the locals, and on the land there are still bakau tree stumps – remnants of buffalo sheds from the past. Along the river Shallow Door There is a deep body of water called Búng Dinh Bà, believed to be the place where she (the Bà) once set up camp and settled.

In addition to the name Thuy Long Thanh Mau, she is also known in folklore as Kim Giao (Lady Kim Giao)—a name that is quite common in current travel guides about Phú Quốc.

The people of Phú Quốc revere her as the goddess who opened up the “Jade Island.” Every year, on the full moon of the first lunar month, the islanders solemnly hold a memorial ceremony in her honor. Currently, Phú Quốc has two shrines dedicated to her: Dinh Bà Trong in the Cửa Cạn area and Dinh Bà Ngoài in the Dương Đông area.

Dinh Ba Phú Quốc
Dinh Bà Phú Quốc inside the shrine

What Makes Dinh Bà Phú Quốc Special

Before entering Dinh Bà Phú Quốc, you’ll see the majestic Tam Quan Gate rise before your eyes, with its exquisitely carved details and imposing depictions of dragons and phoenixes, creating a solemn and sacred atmosphere. Stepping through the gate leads to a spacious, open courtyard. In the center of the courtyard stands a small altar, and just to the right is the Earth God Shrine.

Moving inside, the shrine appears solemn; at the entrance are two large pillars carved with cranes, symbols of purity and longevity. Above is a plaque inscribed with “Thuy Long Thanh Mau Palace.” Another unique feature of the Bà's palace is the fortune-telling area on the right, where pilgrims come to receive messages and guidance from the divine.

If you have the chance, you should visit Bà Temple in the late afternoon – this way you can avoid the harsh sun and also combine it with watching the sunset at the nearby Cậu Temple - Bà Temple area, one of the most beloved sunset views in the island's center.

Dinh Ba Phú Quốc
Inside Dinh Bà Phú Quốc

Location and how to get to Ba Temple

Dinh Bà is located at 44 Vo Thi Sau Street, Duong Dong area, Special Zone Phú Quốc, An Giang Province, about 3 km from the center of Duong Dong. This is an extremely convenient location because visitors can visit Dinh Cau and the lighthouse next to the sea is 140m away, Phu Quoc night market It is 400m away and Duong Dong market is 850m away.

To get to Ba Thuy Long Thanh Mau Palace, you can drive along April 30th Street towards the sea, then turn left onto Nguyen Trung Truc Street for about 100 meters. You will see Vo Thi Sau Street leading directly to the Palace. Visitors are completely free to tour, as admission is free and the palace is open all day.

Dinh Ba Phu Quoc Transportation
Dinh Bà Phú Quốc – Location and Directions

When visiting Lady of the Manor, what should you keep in mind?

Attire: You should wear polite and modest clothing. It is advisable to avoid overly short clothing such as shorts and sleeveless tops.

Attitude: When visiting, you should “walk lightly, speak softly, and smile gracefully,” maintaining a respectful attitude towards the sacred space of the Bà's Shrine.

Behavior: You should light incense and make offerings according to regulations, do not touch any objects in the Palace, and do not litter to avoid spoiling the aesthetics of the place.

Frequently Asked Questions About Dinh Bà Phú Quốc

Who is enshrined at Dinh Bà Phú Quốc?

Dinh Bà is a shrine dedicated to Thủy Long Thánh Mẫu, also known to the locals as Bà Kim Giao—the goddess considered to be the founder and protector of the Phú Quốc region.

Where is Dinh Bà Phú Quốc?

Dinh Bà is located at 44 Vo Thi Sau Street, Duong Dong area, Special Zone Phú Quốc, right near the Dinh Cậu area and the Phú Quốc Night Market.

Is there an admission fee to visit Dinh Bà Phú Quốc?

No. Dinh Bà offers free admission and is open all day for visitors to explore freely.

When is the best time to visit Dinh Bà Phú Quốc?

You can visit year-round, but late afternoon is the ideal time if you want to combine it with watching the sunset at the Dinh Cau – Dinh Ba area.

Explore Phú Quốc with Phú Quốc Express

So, you’ve explored Dinh Bà Phú Quốc and Phú Quốc Express—a sacred site steeped in Vietnamese culture.

For a convenient trip to Phú Quốc, you can choose the Phú Quốc Express catamaran—SAFE, HIGH-QUALITY, 5-STAR STANDARD. On deck, you’ll enjoy the refreshing sea breeze, while inside the ship you’ll find comfortable, plush seating and warm, attentive service from the crew.

Phu Quoc Express 6 Ship
Phu Quoc Express 6 Ship

Please visit the website phuquocexpress.com Or call the hotline at 0901868878 to book express train tickets for the Phú Quốc route and check the monthly train schedule.

Book your tickets today and get ready for a memorable trip to the beautiful island of Phú Quốc—where blue seas, golden sunshine, and unforgettable experiences come together!

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