What Hell Cave (Am Phu Cave) Taught Me at Marble Mountain, Vietnam

In many religious beliefs, heaven and hell are two outstanding places. There are many wonderful stories and beliefs about heaven, as well as many frightening stories about hell. 

Visiting Hell Cave (Am Phu Cave) at Marble Mountain was a fascinating journey to learn about this mysterious and famous Buddhist site. 
The mystery of the limestone cave deep underground and the meaningful educational stories created a memorable journey for me. VIET DOVE Travel is excited to share with you what Hell Cave (Am Phu Cave) Taught Me at Marble Mountain, Vietnam.

Where Is Hell Cave and Why Does It Matter?

Hell Cave, or Am Phu Cave, is located in Marble Mountain, about a 30-minute drive from downtown Da Nang or Hoi An. 
This famous underground site was built 200 years ago at the request of King Minh Mang. It was designed to teach spiritual lessons and guide people toward goodness. Nothing is scary in this attraction; it was super interesting! 
Further, the experience of a Da Nang spiritual tour with Lady Buddha would be a nice combination.

The Yin-Yang Bridge and Nai Ha River Experience 

As you begin to enter the cave, you have to cross the Yin-Yang Bridge. This bridge hosts the statues of the 12 animals of the zodiac above; each animal represents one of us.
The Nai Ha river (Dark river) is where bad evil spirits are kept, and are always trying to pull us down. A tourist named David said, "I saw hands up from the river trying to grab me, not for a high five!" Hilarious! 
After crossing the bridge and taking a few steps, you will see two white candles, often seen at Vietnamese funerals. They provide light to souls entering the underworld.

Meet the Gatekeeper Gods: Nam Tao and Bac Dau

Just a little further, perhaps 10 meters, you will find two carved statues. The first god, the one on the left, is Nam Tao. He has a list and a pen in his hand. I refer to him as the "receptionist of hell," as he will check everyone’s name against a list. 
If he does not find your name, you go back. Have you ever heard any near-death stories where people return and talk of hell?
If your name is on the list, Bac Dau, the god on the right, carries a torch and takes you into the underworld. 
A Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha from Danang tour allows you to visit these sites very easily.

A Tribute to Fallen Heroes

After an easy walk further, you will come to a worship area. This location was once a field hospital during the Vietnam War, which was created to honor the heroic soldiers who lost their lives defending the nation. 
I felt a sense of respect for all those who did brave deeds, standing there.

Entering the Main Chamber and Facing Karma

Next is the main chamber of the cave, where you will see a Boddhisattva figure called the Hell King, who is the ruler of the underworld. His purpose is to help people by cleansing them so they can take another life.
To the left, you will see a small alcove where a man is writing what people are doing in a notebook. He does not miss a thing, no one can escape from God. That's Karma in Buddhism. "I thought he must be the fastest man in human history". 
To the right are ten judges who determine which floor of hell bad people would be sent to. In front of them, there is a mirror that shows people their whole life like a movie.
Curious to see it all for yourself? Here is Best way to visit Marble Mountains and Lady Buddha

Hell Gate: Lessons for the Living

This is my favorite part of the cave. It represents the Buddhist depictions of hell with various punishments for sins like stealing, disrespecting parents, or other immoral behaviors. 
I saw something really great! A man led his son inside, pointed to the punishment for disrespecting parents, and said, "If you treat your mom badly, this will happen to you." It was priceless to see the look on the kid's face- I still chuckle!

Conclusion: Why You Should Visit Hell Cave in Da Nang

Hell Cave at Marble Mountain is such a fun and yet meaningful experience for everyone! It hits the sweet spot, as a limestone cave, filled with educational stories that tell valuable lessons. VIET DOVE Travel wishes you a grand visit to this terrific site.