Die-hard fans of Haw Par Villa in Singapore should bookmark this Vietnamese version which is a major upgrade.
Located in Ho Chi Minh City, Suoi Tien Theme Park is a mythical amusement park and a cultural monument to boot.
The park is decorated with massive golden Buddha statues, colourful dragons and majestic castles.
If you’re sold by the bizarre mish-mesh of traditional mythology and water slides, here’s what to expect besides a surprise Harry Potter cameo.
The water park includes statues of mythical creatures and colourful monuments not dissimilar in style to the famous figures at Haw Par Villa.
However, these sculptures don’t represent the levels of Hell or punishments for wayward believers. Instead, they inspire a sweeping sense of awe for the rich religious and cultural roots of Vietnamese society.
The Chinese Guardian lions or food dogs symbolize prosperity, success and guardianship — and we hope they’ll pass some of their good luck to us.
Those who want to calm and control their minds can mediate with this Buddha statue that looks towards the fountain.
Avalokiteshvara – the compassionate Bodhisattva – is often depicted with multiple heads and arms. Since he is believed to hear the cries of the world, those struggling with life can share their problems here. Alternatively, go hang with Smiling Buddha if you’re in an awesome mood.
Suoi Tien Theme Park is the perfect place to flaunt your fit or flabby bikini body.
Those with a taste for adventure can slide inside gigantic sea creatures and emerge from its fanged mouth.
Planning to bring the kiddos along? They will adore the collection of slides and as they marvel at the face of an ancient king.
If your kids are bored with kiddie pools, how about sliding through a Chinese dragon’s mouth?
Millennials who grew up with the Harry Potter books will stop and stare at this Western-style castle inspired by their favourite books. We don’t think it is a legit partnership but the replica is amusing nonetheless.
This group of house elves are bizarrely chained to the entrance and we’re hoping we can grant them some freedom if we visit. Better pack some extra socks just in case.
On a random note, we couldn’t help but notice that Dobby the house elf got real buff. See for yourself.
You can also have memorable carousel rides or opt for the thrill-seeking roller coasters.
We all have mixed feeling about rides that spin endlessly, but what matters is that you don’t get sick or puke until it’s over.
After the fun-filled day ends, you can take a boat ride and conclude the day by catching a mesmerising sunset.
We’re sure Vietnamese families love the cheeky references to pop culture while educating their kids about their religious heritage.
Suoi Tien Theme Park is the ideal place to beat the heat and have summer fun, but how do you get there?
You can book a flight from Singapore to Tan Son Nhat International Airport on Jetstar Airways. From there, take a 30-minute taxi ride.
Vietnam having an upgraded ‘Haw Par Villa’ of sorts makes it an ideal destination for thrill-seekers looking for water-filled adventures during the hottest time of the year.
At only S$6.78 (US$5) for adults and S$3.39 (US$2.50) for children, it’s an affordable price for an afternoon with mythical creatures. Not to mention, you’ll get to see how buff Dobby the house elf got as a bonus.
Opening Times: 8.00am to 5.00pm
Location: 120 Xa lộ Hà Nội, Phường Tân Phú, Quận 9, Hồ Chí Minh 700000, Vietnam
Website: Suoi Tien Theme Park
Featured image from 91 Days and Instagram.
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