Phu Quoc's LRT stations to showcase Vietnamese culture

The nearly 18-km line will have six stations, including five above ground and one underground at the APEC Convention Centre, with each featuring a distinct cultural theme.

The Tay Bac Station, the starting point of the line, will draw inspiration from Vietnam's northwestern highlands, featuring yellow-beige natural stone, ceramic surfaces and architectural details reminiscent of traditional earthen houses.

Landscaping will incorporate plants associated with the mountainous region, including pink trumpet trees, white orchid trees and crape myrtles.

Hanoi Station will evoke the capital's Old Quarter, with architectural elements inspired by its streetscape and a bronze-yellow waiting area reflecting the character of the thousand-year-old capital.

Hanoi Station's waiting area will feature bronze-yellow tones, reflecting the character of the historic capital.

Hue Station will feature red tones inspired by the former imperial citadel, blended with contemporary design elements reflecting the city's royal heritage.

Hue Station will feature frangipani and flamboyant trees alongside layered roofs evoking the character of the former imperial capital.

Tay Nguyen Station draws inspiration from traditional communal houses, forests, gong culture and waterfalls, with natural stone, wood textures and large trees reflecting the character of the Central Highlands.

Sai Gon Station will feature curved roofs inspired by HCM City's Central Post Office, combined with modern design to reflect the city's dynamic character.

The underground Dao Ngoc Station, linked directly to the APEC Convention Centre, draws inspiration from Phu Quoc's traditional fish sauce craft, with colours and lighting evoking sea salt and shoals of fish.

Construction of the VND 9 trillion (USD 346 million) Phu Quoc LRT began in December 2025, making it Vietnam's first privately funded light rail line.

The underground section linking to the APEC Convention Centre was 97 per cent complete in piling and 42 per cent in foundation excavation by early August.

Bridge piling is complete, while pier caps and shafts are 63 per cent and 56 per cent finished, respectively, with track, power and signalling systems to follow.

Once operational, the LRT will link Phu Quoc International Airport with the APEC Convention and Exhibition Centre and southern Phu Quoc's entertainment hubs. Three-car trains will run at up to 100 kph, carrying around 4,500 passengers an hour.

The line will serve both APEC delegates and Phu Quoc residents, with track installation due to begin in late August ahead of APEC 2027.