An Thoi Station Phu Quoc: A Miniature "Colosseum" Not to Be Missed in the South Island

An Thoi Station (also known as Hon Thom Cable Car Station) is located at Dat Do Beach, An Thoi Town, south of Phu Quoc Island (South Island), Kien Giang Province. This is the departure point of the Hon Thom cable car – one of the modern tourism symbols of the pearl island.

From Duong Dong center (Phu Quoc town), it takes about 25-30 km, equivalent to 40-50 minutes of travel:

• Motorbike/taxi/Grab: Cheapest and most flexible (about 300,000-500,000 VND/one-way taxi).
• Bus No. 11: Free or only 20,000-40,000 VND/trip, running from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM, picking up at the old airport, Phu Quoc Prison, and An Thoi Post Office.
• From Phu Quoc Airport: Only about a 30-minute drive away.

If coming from the mainland, you can take the Superdong or Phu Quoc Express high-speed ferry to Bai Vong Pier and then continue moving to the South Island. Roads are wide and convenient, very suitable for both families and young groups.

It is the distinctive architectural style that leads many visitors to liken An Thoi Station to a “miniature Colosseum” in the heart of Phu Quoc. Invested and designed by Sun Group, the structure is inspired by the Colosseum alongside signature elements of classical Greco-Roman architecture, creating an overall Mediterranean style.

Right upon entering the station area, visitors will easily notice many impressive architectural details:

• Large-scale reddish-brown laterite walls, designed with an “artistic ruin” effect, replicating the ancient feel of Roman structures.
• A system of massive arches and giant pillars, combined with bronze Roman warrior statues, creating a majestic and powerful presence for the space.
• A spacious square featuring fountains, 3D murals, and large glass windows opening up to a direct view of the sea.
• Natural lighting effects streaming through the arched openings, creating striking shadows that evoke the feeling of stepping into an European historical film scene.

The combination of classical architectural space and the blue sea landscape of the South Island creates a special backdrop, making An Thoi Station a prominent check-in point when traveling to Phu Quoc. Many visitors even liken this place to a corner of Europe amidst tropical seas, attracting numerous people for sightseeing and photography every day.

An Thoi Station officially commenced operations in February 2018, following a construction process started in 2015 by Sun Group. More than just a cable car station, this landmark is connected to the world's longest three-wire sea-crossing cable car route, measuring 7,899.9 meters, directly linking Southern Phu Quoc Island with Hon Thom.

Before the project was developed, the An Thoi area was primarily a traditional fishing village centered around fishing activities and a local fishing port. However, following investments in the cable car system and tourist complex, the South Island rapidly transformed into a new tourism hub of Phu Quoc.

From An Thoi Station, visitors can easily travel to many prominent entertainment spots such as Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park or Aquatopia Water Park, alongside luxury resorts and retreats developed along the South Island. Beyond being an impressive architectural creation, An Thoi Station plays a key role in boosting local economic and tourism development, creating job opportunities for residents and helping elevate Phu Quoc into a prominent destination on the international tourism map.

Not only is it the departure point for the famous cable car route, An Thoi Station is also an attractive sightseeing and photo-taking space in Southern Phu Quoc. Visitors can freely explore and take photos on the station grounds free of charge, while enjoying many exciting activities before embarking on the journey to the island.

• Take photos at “Colosseum” corners: The square, relief walls, warrior statues, and the interior lobby with sea views – every angle is photogenic, especially at sunset or under magical night lights.
• Ride the sea-crossing Hon Thom Cable Car: The nearly 8 km route takes 15 minutes at an altitude of almost 800m. From above, you can take in panoramic views of the South Island, Hon Roi, Hon Dua, fishing villages, and turquoise sea.
• Explore Sun World Hon Thom: Upon reaching the island, you can enjoy Aquatopia Water Park (over 20 rides), trek through primeval forests, go scuba diving/snorkeling, kayak, parasail…

Reference cable car ticket prices:

• Adults: 500,000 – 850,000 VND (round-trip + park entry, depending on buffet combo package).
• Children: 300,000 – 700,000 VND (depending on height).

Thanks to the combination of impressive architecture, a sea-crossing cable car experience, and modern entertainment facilities, An Thoi Station has become an unmissable stop when exploring Southern Phu Quoc.

To ensure a smooth visit to An Thoi Station and capture beautiful photos, visitors should prepare some information in advance regarding visiting times, attire, and cable car operating schedules. The following handy tips will help you fully enjoy your journey exploring Southern Phu Quoc.

Ideal time to visit

• Early morning (7:30 – 10:00) or late afternoon (15:00 – 17:00) is the best time to visit An Thoi Station.
• During these hours, the light is soft, temperatures are pleasant, and conditions are ideal for taking photos around the square and architectural arches.

Attire and essential preparation

• Bring sunscreen, a hat, and long-sleeved clothes to protect against the sun.
• If you want vibrant photos, choose light-colored or vivid outfits such as white dresses, red tops, or stylish resort wear.

Best weather for visiting

• The dry season from November to April is considered the ideal time to travel to the South Island, featuring little rain and magnificent ocean views.

With its impressive architecture and special location in Southern Phu Quoc, An Thoi Station is not only a transit hub for the cable car to Hon Thom but has also become a unique tourist spot featuring European architectural signatures in a tropical setting. From classical arches and sprawling squares to breathtaking ocean vistas, it offers an experience combining sightseeing, photography, and exploring the unique culture and tourism of the South Island. If you have the chance to visit Phu Quoc, do not miss stopping by An Thoi Station to admire its striking architecture, experience the sea-crossing cable car, and explore popular local entertainment spots. This will surely be one of the memorable stops, making your pearl island journey complete.