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VietnamDescription and is it worth a visit
Honba (Hon Ba Island) is a small island with a temple of the same name off the coast of Vung Tau, located just 200 meters from the shore. It can be reached on foot at low tide, and a boat will be required at high tide. This is one of the most popular places in Vung Tau, along with the statue of Christ. We recommend visiting this place, because both the island itself and the views from it are simply amazing, especially in clear weather. Great photos are obtained here. An excellent panoramic view from above of the island of Hong Ba also opens from the observation deck at the statue of Christ.
Walking along the beach to the island and visiting it will be a little adventure. However, to get to the island, it is important to take into account the schedule of tides. At low tide, a rocky path is exposed, along which it is easy to get to the island. And if you miss the moment of high tide, you will have to get back by water or boat, in the worst case – wait for the next low tide. Be careful when walking on the stones, they are quite large, sharp and slippery in places, so take your time to avoid injury.
There is a functioning temple on the island. It was built in 1881, and in 1971 it was restored. The temple is dedicated to the goddess of Water and Peace, whose image can be seen on the altar in the main hall. Nearby there are statues of five more goddesses, personifying the basic elements: Water, Fire, Earth, Wood and Metal. This is a spiritual place where people come to pray for peace, health and good luck, and also bring gifts. There are always a lot of believers here.
There is a legend associated with the temple. It is said that a French officer ordered a shot at the temple. Of the three shells, only one reached the target and damaged the temple wall, but the temple itself resisted. A few days later, the officer tragically died, which further strengthened faith in the sanctity of this place.
- Be sure to check the schedule of tides before visiting, otherwise you will have to return by water.
- The temple is a sacred place, so choose modest clothes.
🕐 Working hours
Around the clock, but take into account the time of tides, see the graph above.
💵Entrance fee / ticket price
Free of charge.
🚶 How to get there
The island is located east of Mount Nuino at the end of the main beach Back Beach, 200 m from the shore (Hong Ba Island and temple on the map). It can be reached on foot (at low water level) or by boat.
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