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Van Thuy Tu Temple is one of the most unique and historically significant cultural sites in Phan Thiet, Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam. Built in 1762 by local fishermen, the temple is dedicated to the worship of whales, which are considered sacred sea guardians in Vietnamese coastal culture. It is the oldest and largest whale-worshiping temple in Vietnam and holds great spiritual significance for local fishing communities.
The temple is home to hundreds of whale skeletons and relics, including the largest whale skeleton in Vietnam, which measures 22 meters long. Besides being a place of worship, Van Thuy Tu Temple also serves as a museum, showcasing artifacts related to the lives of fishermen and local maritime traditions.
Van Thuy Tu Temple is located at 54 Ngu Ong Street, Duc Thang Ward, in the heart of Phan Thiet city.
- From Phan Thiet City Center: The temple is just 2 km from the central market and easily reachable by taxi, motorbike, or even on foot.
- From Mui Ne: It is about 25 km away, and you can reach it by taxi, rented motorbike, or as part of a city tour.
- By Local Bus: Public buses and tourist shuttles frequently run between Mui Ne and Phan Thiet, with stops near the temple area.
Phan Thiet has a tropical savanna climate, characterized by warm and dry weather most of the year.
- Best Time to Visit: November to April, when the weather is dry and sunny.
- Average Temperature: Between 25°C and 32°C year-round.
- Rainy Season: May to October, but rainfall is generally brief and not a major hindrance to sightseeing.
- Opening Hours: Daily from 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Recommended Visit Time: Morning hours for cooler temperatures and quieter ambiance.
Avoid noon or early afternoon, especially in summer, due to strong sun and heat in the temple courtyard area.
Van Thuy Tu Temple is famous for its historical and spiritual connection to whale worship, a tradition practiced by coastal Vietnamese fishermen for centuries. They believe whales help protect them at sea and bring good fortune. The temple houses over 100 whale skeletons and relics, including Vietnam’s largest whale skeleton.
It is also renowned for hosting the annual Nghinh Ong Festival, where locals pay homage to whales through ceremonies, music, and dances. The temple’s antique architecture and peaceful atmosphere make it a favorite spot for both tourists and cultural researchers.
- Entrance Fee: Approximately 10,000 – 15,000 VND per person (less than $1 USD).
- Guided Tours: Informal guides are often available; most displays have signage in Vietnamese and English.
- Dress Code: Modest clothing is recommended; no sleeveless tops or short shorts inside the prayer hall.
Visitors can explore the main temple, whale skeleton display area, and a small museum section with fishing relics, ceremonial items, and historical documents.
Van Thuy Tu Temple was built during the reign of Emperor Gia Long in 1762, originally by a group of fishermen who revered whales as “Ca Ong” (Sir Whale). Over the centuries, it has undergone several restorations but retains its traditional architectural features.
The temple's architecture reflects typical 18th-century Vietnamese design, with red-tiled roofs, wooden columns, dragon carvings, and intricate altars. The layout includes three main sections: the front worship hall, the rear shrine housing whale skeletons, and a small museum showcasing local seafaring history.
