1. Introduction to Thuy Hoa Vien
Located in Ben Kinh Hamlet, Hung Thuan Commune, Tay Ninh Province, Thuy Hoa Vien is situated within the grounds of Tay Phap Pagoda. The space was developed from a pagoda expansion project, aiming to create a place where natural landscapes and peaceful emotions harmonize.
This area is meticulously cared for. Colorful flower gardens such as sunflowers, chrysanthemums, or immortelles create soft accents. Beside them is a red arched bridge spanning a small stream, evoking Korean and Japanese landscape styles. Many spots are designed for visitors to easily take photos with flowers, the pond, and miniature wooden landscapes with an East Asian flair.
Beyond its scenic value, Thuy Hoa Vien is associated with deep spiritual significance. Visitors often come to the pagoda to pray for peace, write wishes on wooden tags, and experience the activity of releasing flower lanterns. This serene space brings a sense of lightness after busy days.
Thuy Hoa Vien is open for free daily, suitable for family trips or outings with young friends. The simple, refreshing scenery allows visitors to comfortably stroll, explore each garden, and enjoy relaxing time amidst nature.
A small path covered with cherry blossoms leads to a tranquil meditation hut. (Source: Collected)
2. How to get to Thuy Hoa Vien
2.1. From Ho Chi Minh City to Thuy Hoa Vien
Thuy Hoa Vien is about 50–65 km from Ho Chi Minh City, depending on the route, with travel time ranging from 1 to 2 hours. The popular route is to follow National Highway 22 towards Trang Bang (now Hung Thuan commune). From the Boi Loi area, turn into Provincial Road 784 and continue to the intersection with Provincial Road 6. After turning left, travel about 10 km to reach Cau Ngang in Ben Kinh Hamlet, Don Thuan Commune (now Hung Thuan Commune), where Tay Phap Pagoda and Thuy Hoa Vien are located.
Visitors can choose to travel by motorbike, car, or take a bus to Trang Bang bus station (now Hung Thuan commune) and then call a taxi or motorbike taxi for the remaining distance. Thanks to the convenient transportation system, the journey from Ho Chi Minh City to Thuy Hoa Vien is very suitable for a day trip.
2.2. From Tay Ninh City center
If starting from Tay Ninh City center, follow Provincial Road 784 towards Trang Bang (now Hung Thuan commune). Upon reaching the Boi Loi area, continue straight to the intersection of Provincial Road 784 and Provincial Road 6. Turn left and travel about 10 km to reach Ben Kinh Hamlet. The total distance is about 30–45 km depending on the starting point, with a travel time of about 40–50 minutes.
The road is flat, suitable for both cars and motorbikes. Visitors often combine this trip with nearby attractions to fully enjoy the scenery of the Southeast region of Vietnam.
3. Attractive experiences at Thuy Hoa Vien
3.1. Korean space in the heart of Trang Bang
Poetic check-in space. (Source: Collected)
Thuy Hoa Vien impresses with a decor style reminiscent of Korea. Right from the entrance, you can easily find rows of vibrant cherry blossoms arranged along the path. Although the material is simulated, the overall colors still create a shimmering frame, perfect for capturing photos with a strong Korean flavor.
The gently curved red bridge spanning a small stream becomes a highlight that attracts visitors. Standing on the bridge, you can admire the panoramic view of the flower garden and the surrounding wooden miniature landscape. Many young people enjoy transforming into historical characters with the Hanbok costume rental service at the pagoda. The bright colors of the outfits combined with the gentle scenery make the photos more complete.
3.2. Flower garden and green vegetable area
The garden space at Thuy Hoa Vien is meticulously cared for. Rows of sunflowers, chrysanthemums, and mixed flowers bloom according to the season. Under the clear sunlight, the flower beds create vibrant and pleasant color patches to stroll through.
Next to the flower area is the green vegetable garden that supplies food for Tay Phap pagoda. Familiar vegetables such as Malabar spinach, water spinach, and Vietnamese coriander are planted neatly, bringing a sense of closeness to rural life. Visitors can observe the plant care methods and enjoy the fresh atmosphere around the garden.
3.3. Wishing tree and spiritual activities
An interesting experience at Thuy Hoa Vien is writing wishes on wooden tags and hanging them on the wishing tree within the premises. Many visitors believe that sincere prayers will bring peace and luck.
On Saturday evenings every week, Tay Phap pagoda organizes the release of lotus lanterns on the water surface. The small, sparkling lights create a relaxing meditative space. Additionally, the pagoda offers outdoor retreats and tea meditation sessions for visitors to find balance after busy days.
Lantern floating ceremony at Tay Phap Pagoda. (Source: Collected)
4. Experience visiting the Water Flower Garden
Opening hours: 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM daily.
Entrance fee: Free. Visitors only need to pay if renting Hanbok costumes or photography services within the water flower garden area.
Attire: Dress politely, modestly, and in subtle colors. Avoid short skirts, off-the-shoulder tops, or tight clothing.
Spiritual space: Maintain cleanliness, do not litter, do not pick flowers, or step on the grass within the premises.
When participating in ceremonies: Show sincerity, avoid crowding, do not film or take too many photos during the ceremony hours.
Personal preparation: Bring drinking water, sunscreen, a hat, and soft-soled shoes for convenient movement.
Embody the charm of Korean maidens in Hanbok attire. (Source: Collected)
5. Suggested One-Day Itinerary Combination
Morning
Departing from Ho Chi Minh City via National Highway 22, you begin your journey to Tay Ninh in the fresh morning air. Upon reaching old Trang Bang, you can stop to savor the renowned Trang Bang noodle soup, a local specialty, to refuel before continuing. After breakfast, you will proceed to Thuy Hoa Vien .
Noon
After visiting Thuy Hoa Vien, you can rest in the area around Tay Phap pagoda or return to the center of Trang Bang for lunch.
Afternoon
From Thuy Hoa Vien, you will travel to Ba Den Mountain to continue your journey. Visitors can opt for the cable car to admire the panoramic view of Tay Ninh's mountains and forests. At the summit of Ba Den Mountain, visitors have the opportunity to worship the 72m-tall bronze statue of Bodhisattva Tay Bon Da Son, take photos, and capture moments at the Garden of Enlightenment or the Buddhist Art Exhibition Center.
As the afternoon descends, you will continue to Dau Tieng Lake. This is an ideal spot to experience the tranquil beauty of the water and admire the sunset behind the mountains. The gentle breeze from the lake creates a pleasant feeling, allowing you to conclude your day trip with a perfect moment.
Tourists find peace of mind when visiting Ba Den Mountain.
Thuy Hoa Vien is not only a tourist destination with Korean characteristics in the heart of the Southeast region but also a place to find peace. This place is worthy of being on the list of destinations to visit once to feel the pure beauty and peace of mind in everyday life.
