Phu Quoc Prison, also known as the Coconut Tree Prison, is a haunting reminder of Vietnam’s turbulent history. Once a site of unimaginable suffering, it has now been turned into a museum where visitors can reflect on the resilience of those who endured its horrors.
History of Phu Quoc Prison
French Colonial Times
Phu Quoc Prison was initially constructed during the French colonial period as a detention facility for political prisoners. Built in the late 1940s, it served as a grim holding center for Vietnamese revolutionaries who opposed French rule. The prisoners endured inhumane treatment, with torture and harsh living conditions used to break their spirits. This era marked the beginning of the prison’s dark legacy as a place of suffering and resistance.
Vietnam War
During the Vietnam War, Phu Quoc Prison was expanded and became infamous for holding over 40,000 prisoners at its peak. Under the South Vietnamese government, backed by the United States, it was used to detain North Vietnamese soldiers and political dissidents. The prison gained a notorious reputation for its brutal torture methods, including the infamous “tiger cages,” which confined prisoners in tiny, suffocating spaces. Despite these conditions, many prisoners displayed incredible resilience, and stories of their daring escape attempts became symbols of defiance.
Visiting the Phu Quoc Prison
Today, Phu Quoc Prison has been transformed into a museum, preserving its historical significance while educating visitors about the harsh realities of Vietnam’s fight for independence.
- Address: 350 Nguyen Van Cu Street, An Thoi Ward, Duong Dong Town, Phu Quoc Island, Kien Giang Province
- Opening hours: 08:30–11:30 and 13:30–17:00 (closed during lunch break)
- Entrance fee: Free (additional fees apply if you hire a tour guide)
A visit typically takes about an hour, allowing enough time to explore the exhibits and outdoor sections while reflecting on the site’s historical importance.
How to get there
Location
Phu Quoc Prison is located on the southern part of the island, about 25 km from Duong Dong Town, the island’s main hub. Its location makes it a convenient stop when exploring the southern attractions of Phu Quoc.
Taxi or private car
Taking a taxi or hiring a private car is the easiest way to reach the prison. Make sure to arrange for the driver to wait for you, as finding a return taxi in this area can be challenging. If you’re planning to visit multiple attractions, renting a car with a driver for half a day or a full day is a practical option. This allows you to combine your visit with other nearby destinations, such as the beaches, pepper plantations, or the Coconut Prison.
Motorbike / scooter
Renting a motorbike or scooter is another popular option for getting around Phu Quoc. Rentals usually cost 150,000–300,000 VND per day, and the roads to the prison are generally quiet and easy to navigate. Ensure you have a valid license and prior riding experience before choosing this mode of transport.
What is there to see
1. Coconut Prison
Coconut Prison is a sprawling site that once covered 400 hectares, with nearly 500 buildings during its peak. Today, only a portion of the original structures remain, but you can still explore key areas that give a vivid glimpse into the harsh realities faced by prisoners.
Mannequins are placed throughout the site to recreate the daily life of prisoners and the harsh conditions they endured. You can walk into the barracks and see the cramped spaces where prisoners lived, and inspect the infamous “tiger cages”, small outdoor cells designed to physically and mentally break those imprisoned. The site’s exhibits showcase brutal torture methods, including beatings, water submersion, and confinement in suffocating spaces.
Despite the grim history, the exhibits also highlight stories of incredible resilience and daring escape attempts, with tools like metal spoons used to dig tunnels. Walking through the prison is a sobering experience, offering a powerful glimpse into the sacrifices made for Vietnam’s independence.
2. Prisoner graveyard
About 1 km from the main prison, the prisoner graveyard spans 2,000 square meters. Here, you’ll find a striking monument of a raised fist, symbolizing the unbroken spirit of the Vietnamese revolutionaries. The peaceful atmosphere of the graveyard contrasts with the horrors of the prison, serving as a place for reflection and remembrance.
3. Exhibition house of relics
The exhibition house has two rooms where you can dive deeper into the history of Coconut Prison. One room showcases artifacts and detailed information about the prison’s construction and evolution. The other features 100 photographs and documents, providing insight into the torture methods and struggles faced by the prisoners. Walking through these rooms gives you a closer look at the hardships endured and the resilience of those who fought for their beliefs.
4. B2 Section
The B2 Section offers a closer look at the horrific tortures inflicted on prisoners. Restored models demonstrate the 40 different methods of punishment used, giving you a visceral understanding of the inhumane conditions. Walking through this section is a chilling yet educational experience, bringing the prison’s history to life in stark detail.
5. Kien Van Church
As you explore further, you’ll come across the ruins of Kien Van Church, which once served as a place of worship for prisoners. Now reduced to fragments of walls and foundations spread over 4,837 square meters, the site is a poignant reminder of the spiritual resilience of those held captive.
6. Monument to martyrs at Doi Sim
Nearby, the monument to martyrs at Doi Sim stands as a powerful symbol of sacrifice. The figure emerging from two waves, standing 5 meters tall, commemorates the courage and determination of the prisoners who endured unimaginable suffering for the sake of freedom.
Tips for visiting the Phu Quoc Prison
- Dress modestly: As this is a historical and somber site, it’s important to wear respectful clothing.
- Prepare for the heat: Visiting the prison involves a lot of walking outside, and Phu Quoc can get very hot. Wear sunglasses, apply sunscreen, and bring plenty of water to stay hydrated.
- Rainy season precautions: If you’re visiting between May and October, which is Phu Quoc’s rainy season, carry an umbrella or a lightweight rain jacket for exploring the outdoor sections.
- Foreign visitor-friendly: The museum offers English descriptions and narrations, making it easy for you to understand the exhibits and history.
- Not suitable for children: Due to the graphic depictions of violence, torture, and grim photographs, this site may not be appropriate for children.
