Sung Hung Pagoda - was formerly two pagodas in the capital Doung Dong, namely Sung Nghia and Hung Nhan. They were built in the early 20th century to worship and pray for the souls. These two pagodas then merged and renamed Sung Hung Pagoda as today. They are situated at the foot of a hill in
centre of the town centre. The pagoda retains a harmonious architecture in an airy campus and gradually higher along the slopes. It is surrounded by numerous lush ancient trees creating the solemn and quiet beauty. This amazing architecture makes Sung Hung Pagoda become one of the appealing tourist attractions in Phu Quoc.
It is one of the oldest pagodas in Phu Quoc. The pagoda follows the teachings of the Mahayana Buddhist. Mahayana is also called "the great vehicle." The pagoda was renovated twice in 1924 and 1960.
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When you're standing in front of the pagoda you'll see a three-gate entrance with wave-shaped tile roof. It's decorated by "2 dragons reaching the pearl" relief along with name-table of Sung Hung Pagoda. Behind the imposing three-gate entrance is the statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (Goddess of Mercy) standing in the middle of the yard.
Up to more ten sidesteps is other large courtyard with lotus pond and the gate built with four wooden pillars and ying-yang tiled roof. Both sides are flanked by 2 majestic unicorns, which were offered from a generous donation almost 100 years ago. These are made in relatively common architectural style. |
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The Courtyard
Behind the gate is the main hall, which is constructed on a construction of masonry nearly two meters high. The altar is in the main hall, in which the top-level sits the three
Buddha's: Amitabha in the middle, Mahasthamaprapta bodhisattva on the right and Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva on the left. The
hall houses numerous statues made from wood, bronze and plaster and they are extremely sophisticated sculpted.
There is also a big bell and the system of horizontal lacquered boards, parallel sentences, which are gorgeous red lacquer trimmed with gold. These unique architectures together with the ancient sacred atmosphere make Sung Hung Pagoda become an impressive tourist site in Doung Dong.
The Altar
One can visit Sung Hung Pagoda easily, since it is near the centre of Duong Dong Town. Entrance is free. It opens daily from 7a.m. to 6p.m. This should be a great chance for foreigners to learn more about ancient pagoda architecture as well as to gain some knowledge of the most popular religion in Vietnam.
