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Health & Life

Unveiling the “Mini Ha Long Bay”: A Secluded Island with a Mystical Legend

20 June, 2025

The “Ha Long Bay in Miniature” – A Scenic Wonder

Hon Phu Tu, or the Father and Son Isle, is a small limestone island featuring two large rocks: Hon Phu (Father Isle) and Hon Tu (Son Isle). These rocks are connected by a 5-meter-high common base, creating a unique image that resembles a father and son embracing in the middle of the sea.

Hon Phu Tu is dubbed the “Ha Long Bay in Miniature” of the Western region. This name originates from a mysterious legend. According to the tale, there once lived a fisherman and his son who relied on each other during stormy days. On one fateful journey to the sea, the father was captured by a sea monster. Bravely, the son jumped into the water to save his father, and both sadly perished in the fierce waves. Moved by their sacrifice, the heavens transformed them into two majestic rocks standing tall off the shore. This story not only explains the existence of Hon Phu Tu but also conveys a message about family bonds and filial piety.

The ideal time to explore Hon Phu Tu is during the dry season, from December to April of the following year. During this period, the weather is mostly sunny and dry, and the sea is calm and clear, making it perfect for enjoying the scenery and engaging in outdoor activities.

Today, Hon Phu Tu is a preferred destination for nature enthusiasts and those seeking to immerse themselves in local culture. Visitors can embark on boat rides to admire the sea views, dip into the tranquil waters of Bai Duong, or pay a visit to Chua Hang, a sacred temple nestled in the rocky mountainside, offering a direct view of Hon Phu Tu.

Part of the Hon Chong landscape complex, Bai Duong is a captivating beach stretching about 2 kilometers. It boasts a pristine and serene ambiance, gifted by nature.

Bai Duong beach is divided into two distinct halves. One side, known as Bai Dau, is shaded by ancient oil trees, while the other, Bai Duong, is adorned with swaying casuarina trees.

What sets Bai Duong apart is its crescent shape, embracing the clear blue waters. Its golden-brown sand is unique, free from pebbles and rocks. Sheltered by a forest of miscellaneous trees that block the wind and separated from the road, Bai Duong boasts gentle waves and shallow waters, making it safe for both children and the elderly to enjoy a dip in the sea.

Unlike bustling famous beaches, Bai Duong offers a peaceful and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a relaxing and rejuvenating escape in nature.

Chua Hang, or the Cave Temple, attracts visitors all year round, especially during weekends and holidays. It hosts a grand festival from the 8th to the 15th of the fourth lunar month annually, featuring various fascinating activities.

Chua Hang in Kien Giang is a popular destination for pilgrims and tourists alike.

Delicious Kien Giang Specialties to Savour During Your Visit to Hon Phu Tu

Kien Giang captivates visitors not only with its natural beauty and the tranquility of the southwestern region but also with its delectable cuisine that leaves a lasting impression.

Kien Giang Fish Noodle Soup

Unlike other fish noodle soups in the Mekong Delta, the Kien Giang version boasts a clear yet flavorful broth made from fish bones and various vegetables. The snakehead fish is cleaned, parboiled, and then torn into large pieces. The noodles are served with the hot broth and accompanied by fresh herbs, bean sprouts, shredded water spinach, and a touch of tamarind sauce or pure fish sauce—a simple yet aromatic delicacy.

Kien Giang fish noodle soup is a must-try specialty when visiting this region.

Crab Noodle Soup

Crab noodle soup is one of Kien Giang’s renowned specialties, captivating diners with its flavorful taste and appealing presentation. This dish immediately catches the eye with a steaming bowl of noodles and a bright red boiled crab, preserving the natural sweetness of the sea. The noodles are typically made from rice or tapioca flour, resulting in a chewy texture that blends perfectly with the broth crafted from pork bones and fresh crab. The highlight of this dish lies in the crystal-clear yet savory broth, seasoned delicately to accentuate the freshness of the seafood.

It is commonly served with fresh herbs, fried shallots, and a sprinkle of ground pepper or chopped chili peppers, enhancing its allure. Despite its simplicity, crab noodle soup embodies the culinary spirit of this coastal region.

Bun Ken (Kien Giang-Style Noodle Soup)

Bun Ken, with its intricate and unique preparation, is a dish that may leave diners craving more after the first taste. The noodle soup’s broth is made from snakehead fish, with part of the fish meat pounded into the broth and the rest stir-fried with shallots, garlic, cinnamon, cloves, curry powder, and coconut milk. Diners are captivated not only by the aroma but also by the rich and creamy flavor of this dish.

Bun Ken represents a unique culinary culture of the people of Kien Giang.

Although a portion of Hon Phu collapsed in 2006 due to natural erosion, the remaining structure and the surrounding scenery retain their allure. Hon Phu Tu is not just a tourist destination; it is a place that preserves cultural and spiritual memories and legends passed down through generations by the local community. Above all, it is an ideal spot for short getaways to immerse oneself in the serene beauty of nature and the picturesque landscape of the southern region.