Everything You Need to Know for The Best Visit to Phu Quoc Prison

Phu Quoc Prison is a special historical relic that bears witness to one of the darkest chapters in Vietnam’s wartime past. This former detention center vividly portrays the lives of war prisoners and the brutal torture methods they endured. Today, it stands as both an educational resource and a reminder of the value of peace and patriotism. In this blog, we’ll take a closer look at everything you need to know for a meaningful visit to this landmark.

1. Historical Significance of Phu Quoc Prison

Phu Quoc Prison, also known as Coconut Tree Prison, was built by the French colonial administration in 1949 to detain Vietnamese revolutionaries. After 1954, it was taken over by the U.S. - backed South Vietnamese government and significantly expanded. During the Vietnam War, it became the largest detention center in the South, holding more than 40,000 detainees, many of whom were subjected to severe torture and inhumane conditions.

Following Vietnam’s reunification in 1975, Phu Quoc Prison was decommissioned and later officially recognized as a National Historical Relic in 1995, marking its transition from a war facility to a site of remembrance. Today, the prison stands as a solemn reminder of the cruelty endured during conflict, while honoring the resilience and sacrifices of Vietnamese soldiers. It also plays a vital role in preserving these war memories for future generations, offering visitors insight into the harsh realities faced by prisoners.

Many commemorative and educational events have been organized here, including historical tours, incense-offering ceremonies on national holidays, and annual memorial events for veterans and martyrs. The prison also hosts themed exhibitions showcasing prisoner testimonies, artifacts, photographs, and documents related to wartime resistance, helping to instill patriotism, raise awareness of Vietnam’s history, and foster humanitarian values among visitors.

The French colonial administration constructed Phu Quoc Prison to detain Vietnamese revolutionaries (Source: Internet)

2. Important Information before Visiting Phu Quoc Prison

To fully appreciate the solemn history and educational value of Phu Quoc Prison, a bit of preparation goes a long way. Read on to understand its location, how to get there, and the applicable entrance fees.

2.1. Location of Phu Quoc Prison

Phu Quoc Prison is located at 350 Nguyen Van Cu Street, An Thoi Ward, Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang Province. It is about 25 kilometers from Duong Dong town center and a 15-20-minute drive from Phu Quoc International Airport.

The prison sits near Bai Khem and Mui Ong Doi Beaches, popular for their resort facilities, which allows visitors to conveniently combine historical visits with leisure activities. Set in an open, spacious environment, the site preserves a sense of isolation similar to its wartime setting, enhancing the solemn and reflective atmosphere for visitors.

Phu Quoc Prison is located in an expansive, open area, maintaining an isolated feel reminiscent of its wartime atmosphere (Source: Internet)

2.2. Phu Quoc Prison Entrance Fees

Visitors to Phu Quoc Prison enjoy free admission regardless of nationality. However, some additional services such as hiring a tour guide, renting an audio guide, or purchasing historical booklets are available for a separate fee, typically ranging from VND 100,000 - VND 200,000 (USD 4 - USD 8).

The prison welcomes guests from 7:30 AM to 11:00 AM and then from 1:30 PM to 5:00 PM daily, but hours may be subject to change on holidays or special days. Tourists can simply arrive on-site to register for a visit without the need for advance booking.

Phu Quoc Prison offers free entry to visitors of all nationalities (Source: Internet)

2.3. How to Get to Phu Quoc Prison

From Duong Dong town center, visitors can take Tran Hung Dao Street, then DT46, and finally Nguyen Van Cu Street to reach the prison. The journey typically takes around 35 to 40 minutes. If coming from Phu Quoc International Airport, you can head south along the airport bypass road and then continue on Nguyen Van Cu Street, which takes about 20 minutes by car.

Visitors can opt for motorbike rentals, taxis, private cars, or join shared tours to explore the southern part of the island. The prison features a spacious, free parking area located right in front of the entrance, making it convenient for all types of vehicles.

The journey from Phu Quoc International Airport to Phu Quoc Prison usually takes roughly 20 minutes by car (Source: Internet)

3. What to See inside Phu Quoc Prison

Phu Quoc Prison offers a comprehensive look into Vietnam's wartime past, with vivid wax figures depicting harsh prisoner life and memorial houses honoring those who perished. Visitors can start their visit at the Memorial House, then follow a path through the artifact exhibition, Tiger Cages, wax displays, and end at the outdoor yard and watchtowers. Continue reading to uncover the must-see elements of this significant destination.

3.1. The Tiger Cages Area

The Tiger Cages are a standout feature of Phu Quoc Prison, recreating the brutal conditions used to confine and torture wartime prisoners. The small enclosures were made of barbed wire with thick sand laid beneath. Prisoners had to crouch or kneel to avoid being pierced by the sharp metal above and around them. However, if they attempted to lie down on the sand, the intense heat would burn their skin and cause bleeding. Prolonged exposure to the scorching sun and cold night air over time led to severe physical exhaustion.

Today, this area features realistic models that vividly portray scenes of torture, starvation, and neglect. It is a key stop on the tour, where in-depth commentary from guides helps visitors understand the historical context behind this haunting space.

Inside the tiger cages, prisoners were forced to crouch or kneel to prevent injury from the sharp metal surrounding (Source: Internet)

Long-term exposure to both the intense daytime heat and biting cold at night left the prisoners utterly exhausted (Source: Internet)

3.2. Wax Statue Exhibits in The Prison

Phu Quoc Prison features a vivid wax statue system that realistically recreates daily life, torture scenes, and prisoner activities within the prison camp. Notably in Zone B2, visitors can witness a detailed re-creation of the former prison interior through life-sized wax figures of inmates and soldiers. The isolation cells depict the various torture methods inflicted upon inmates held at Phu Quoc Prison. This area also brings to life the brave escape attempts of Vietnamese prisoners digging tunnels to escape from what was known as "hell on earth”.

The wax statues clearly portray expressions, postures, and emotions, helping visitors gain a more authentic understanding of the harsh conditions endured by the inmates. Each area is accompanied by detailed informational panels with explanations available in both Vietnamese and English.

In Zone B2, visitors can see an accurate replica of the old prison interior (Source: Internet)

The wax figures vividly capture the facial expressions, body language, and emotions of prisoners enduring brutal torture (Source: Internet)

3.3. Historical Artifacts And Exhibitions

Phu Quoc Prison serves as a crucial site for understanding the broader historical context of Vietnam's struggle for independence. Visitors will find exhibits featuring original or reconstructed artifacts, including leg shackles, torture instruments, and personal belongings of prisoners, offering a tangible connection to the past.

Furthermore, inside the Exhibition House of Relics, there is an exhibition showcasing historical documents, photographs, wartime prison maps, and lists of martyrs. Through these comprehensive displays, visitors can delve into the establishment and pivotal role of the prison across various periods of Vietnamese history, gaining a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices made and the resilience demonstrated by those who endured its harsh conditions.

Guests can see exhibitions containing authentic or reconstructed artifacts such as leg shackles, torture equipment, etc (Source: Internet)

There’s an exhibition displaying historical documents, photographs, wartime prison layouts, and lists of fallen heroes (Source: Internet)

3.4. Memorial House inside Phu Quoc Prison

At the heart of the prison grounds stands a solemn Memorial Monument, a poignant tribute to the thousands who sacrificed their lives while imprisoned here. This sacred space is dedicated to commemorating those who endured unimaginable hardship and ultimately perished within these walls. The monument, crafted from granite and traditional Vietnamese stonework, provides a tranquil setting for reflection and remembrance.

Inside, visitors will find an altar, plaques bearing the names of fallen patriots, and an area for offering incense, a traditional Vietnamese gesture of respect for the deceased. One of the most poignant features is the Eternal Flame, burning continuously to symbolize the enduring spirit of resistance and to honor the ultimate sacrifices made. This dignified stop is frequently visited by both domestic and international guests who come to pay their respects and contemplate the immense cost of Vietnam's independence.

Visitors may light incense as a symbol of respect and to remember the sacrifices of those who suffered here (Source: Internet)

3.5. Outdoor Grounds And Guard Structures

The outdoor grounds of Phu Quoc Prison feature a wide open area showcasing watchtowers, barbed-wire fences, and large outdoor collective detention buildings. These elements reflect the original layout used during wartime to enforce control and surveillance.

Visitors can follow a designated walking path to explore the entire prison compound. Several sections remain intact or have been carefully reconstructed to closely resemble their original wartime condition, offering an immersive and authentic glimpse into the camp’s historical setting.

The outdoor grounds preserve the wartime layout once used to maintain strict control and constant surveillance (Source: Internet)

Some sections remain untouched or have undergone careful reconstruction to closely match their condition during wartime (Source: Internet)

4. Local Tips for The Best Experience in Phu Quoc Prison

Drawing on local knowledge can enrich your understanding of this significant historical site, from appreciating its layout to connecting with the stories it tells. Below, you'll find a comprehensive resource covering dress code, visitor behavior, recommended visiting times and paths, and practical tips on what to bring, all designed to enhance your visit.

4.1. Dress Code And Behavior in Phu Quoc Prison

Here are some simple tips on what to wear and how to behave respectfully when visiting Phu Quoc Prison:

• Dress respectfully: Visitors are encouraged to dress respectfully and modestly, as Phu Quoc Prison is a solemn historical site. Comfortable clothing that covers the shoulders and knees is recommended.
• Maintain silence: Refrain from loud conversations, excessive laughter, or taking inappropriate photos in the exhibition areas.
• Respect exhibits: To preserve the exhibits, especially wax figures and historical artifacts, visitors are asked not to touch any displayed items. Respect for shared space is essential to maintain the integrity of the memorial.

Guests are kindly requested to refrain from touching any of the exhibits on display (Source: Internet)

4.2. Suggested Visiting Duration And Route

If you’re not sure how to plan your visit to Phu Quoc Prison, check out these quick tips on duration and the ideal path to follow:

• Allocate sufficient time: Allocate 1 to 1.5 hours to explore the main sections and absorb the historical information thoroughly.
• Explore sequentially: Begin your tour at the Memorial House, then proceed to the historical artifacts exhibition, the Tiger Cages, the wax statue exhibits, and finally, the outdoor yard and watchtowers.
• Extend your exploration: Consider pairing your visit with other attractions in the South of Phu Quoc Island for a half-day excursion, such as Sao Beach, Ong Doi Cape, or Truc Lam Ho Quoc Zen Monastery.

Visitors should set aside 1 to 1.5 hours to fully explore the key areas and take in the historical context (Source: Internet)

4.3. What to Bring There

To maximize your experience at Phu Quoc Prison, check out what essentials to bring in the list below:

• Essentials: Bring a hat or cap, bottled water, and sunglasses, especially if visiting during the dry season (from December to April).
• Cameras/ Phones: You can pack a camera or phone to take photos of the historical artifacts and life-sized wax figures that vividly recreate the prison’s past, but remember to respect areas where photography is prohibited.
• Comfort aids: If you're visiting with elderly family members or small children, consider bringing a handheld fan or a small folding chair as the grounds are quite extensive.

Visitors can use their cameras or phones to photograph the authentic artifacts and life-sized wax figures (Source: Internet)

4.4. Accessibility And Nearby Facilities

You should take a look at the tips below to easily navigate local access points and essential facilities with ease:

• Pathway accessibility: The site features concrete walkways that make it relatively easy to navigate, even for elderly visitors or those who prefer a more stable walking surface.
• Essential amenities: Visitors will find convenient public restrooms, shaded rest areas, and a free parking lot located near the entrance. These facilities enhance overall comfort and accessibility for individuals and groups alike.

The prison features concrete walkways, allowing even older guests to move around with ease (Source: Internet)

Phu Quoc Prison offers a profound and necessary glimpse into a significant chapter of history. By preparing with the insights on dress code, behavior, optimal visiting duration, efficient routes, and essential items to bring, you're well-equipped for a visit that's not only respectful but also deeply impactful.

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