The Trai Dan Ceremony at Sung Hung Ancient Pagoda is one of the most distinctive spiritual events on Phu Quoc Island, celebrated annually during the last days of the 7th lunar month. This traditional Buddhist festival brings together chanting rituals, merit offerings, lantern ceremonies, and acts of compassion that reflect the cultural identity of the island community.
Sung Hung Ancient Pagoda, located in the heart of Duong Dong, was built in the late 19th century and is considered one of the oldest temples on the island. Following the classic Southern Vietnamese layout of “shrine in front, pagoda behind,” the temple combines ancient architecture, shaded courtyards, and sacred worship spaces. Over its history, the pagoda has undergone several restorations under different abbots, including Venerable Tinh Nghia in 1924 and Venerable Thich Hue Chanh in 1960. Today, the temple is overseen by Venerable Hue Minh and continues to be an important spiritual landmark for locals.
The highlight of the festival is the Trai Dan Ceremony, where monks and devotees perform rituals such as lantern processions, chanting, food offerings to wandering spirits, and prayers for peace and harmony. The temple is decorated with spinning lanterns lit by candles to symbolically guide spirits to the ceremony. After the main Chẩn Tế rite, the ceremony continues with the traditional “Xô Đụng” ritual, where offerings are distributed as an act of compassion and merit-making.
Visitors attending the festival can enjoy vegetarian meals prepared by local residents, explore the temple’s historic architecture, and immerse themselves in the peaceful spiritual atmosphere. The event embodies Buddhist values of compassion, gratitude, and community harmony.
The Trai Dan Ceremony at Sung Hung Ancient Pagoda is not only a religious celebration but also a cultural highlight of Phu Quoc, offering visitors a meaningful experience during the Vu Lan season.
