I. Experience in Visiting Con Dao for Religious Purposes
- Timing for Pilgrimage in Con Dao:
- Visitors can undertake pilgrimages to places like Hàng Dương Cemetery, Miếu bà Phi Yến, or Chùa Núi Một at any time of the day. Particularly for the pilgrimage to Cô Sáu’s grave, it is busiest around the Tý hour (after 22:00), considered a sacred time when wishes are believed to come true.
- For those focusing on spiritual tourism, a 4-day 3-night Con Dao tour is recommended.
- Pilgrimage Procedure in Con Dao:
- After arriving in Con Dao, start with the Memorial Statue area (the tallest column in Hàng Dương). Pay respects to revolutionary soldiers here.
- Then proceed to visit the graves of famous revolutionaries, such as Lê Hồng Phong and Nguyễn An Ninh, in different sections of Hàng Dương Cemetery (Sections A, B, C, D).
- For morning pilgrimages, visit Cô Sáu’s grave, reserving the main ceremony for the evening. After visiting the graves, explore other Con Dao attractions like Miếu bà Phi Yến or the Con Dao Prison.
- Preparing Pilgrimage Offerings:
- Pilgrims can prepare offerings at home or purchase them at the central market in Con Dao. Basic offerings include a conical hat, synthetic gold and silver paper, a comb, gold bars, a bottle of mineral water, incense, and most importantly, white flowers, as Cô Sáu loves them.
- Notes for Pilgrimage in Con Dao:
- Show respect by avoiding jesting, inappropriate language, and maintaining a solemn demeanor at Hàng Dương Cemetery.
- Dress modestly and appropriately to maintain the sanctity of Con Dao.
II. Sacred Places in Con Dao:
- Hàng Dương Cemetery:
- The largest cemetery in Con Dao, resting place for many patriots and revolutionary soldiers. Pay respects to heroes like Võ Thị Sáu, Lê Hồng Phong, and Nguyễn An Ninh.
- Cô Võ Thị Sáu’s Grave:
- Symbolic and revered, the grave attracts visitors to pay their respects and offers a chance for deep reflection.
- Con Dao Prison System:
- A historical site representing the years of struggle, imprisonment, and torture of Vietnamese patriots during the French colonial era and later during the Vietnam War.
- Chùa Núi Một (Vân Sơn Tự):
- Built by the Americans in 1964, serves spiritual needs. A place for pilgrims to pray for blessings and peace, becoming a bustling site during the day.
- Miếu bà Phi Yến (An Sơn Miếu):
- A place of reverence with a story of a virtuous woman, Phi Yến. Pilgrims come to seek blessings and offer prayers.
This comprehensive guide outlines the pilgrimage process and highlights the sacred places in Con Dao. Remember to refer to this information for a smoother spiritual journey.
