Hai Chau Village is one of the oldest spiritual sites of the fishing community in Ngu Phung, Phu Quy Special Zone, Lam Dong Province. The village is home to the worship of Lord Nam Hai (the Whale God) and Lady Chua Ngoc (Thiên Y A Na)—two deities deeply revered by coastal residents for their protection and blessings.
According to local records, around 1845, the people of Hai Chau built the Nam Hai Shrine to honor the Whale God, believed to safeguard fishermen during their voyages at sea. By 1849, the villagers constructed another shrine dedicated to Lady Chua Ngoc, praying for favorable weather, peaceful seas, and a prosperous life.
Over nearly two centuries, the shrines have endured the harsh climate and storms of Phu Quy Island. Although time caused deterioration, the descendants and local community have restored and preserved both structures, allowing them to remain important religious and cultural landmarks to this day.
Traditional Rituals of Hai Chau Village
Each year, the village holds two major ceremonial offerings:
- Spring Offering Ceremony in the first lunar month
- Autumn Offering Ceremony in the eighth lunar month
In addition to these main festivals, the villagers may also conduct special rituals during significant community events to inform the deities and pray for protection, peace, and good fortune.
