1. Kong: Skull Island movie
2. Filming locations – Map
3. Quang Ninh Province
4. Ninh Binh Province
5. Quang Binh Province
6. FAQ + Travel Tips / Info
Kong: Skull Island (2017) movie was filmed in Vietnam, Australia and Hawaii.
Kong: Skull Island is a captivating 2017 American monster film, part of which was shot in diverse locations across Vietnam. The production crew seized the opportunity to showcase Vietnam’s breathtaking natural scenery, including the limestone formations and caverns of Ninh Binh, the enchanting Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park in Quang Binh, and the picturesque Ha Long Bay. Filming Kong: Skull Island in Vietnam was an extensive endeavor involving hundreds of cast and crew members, including local talents. Working closely with Vietnamese authorities and communities, the production team ensured that the filming process had minimal impact on the environment and local culture.
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Vietnam’s captivating landscapes attract filmmakers worldwide.
The Vietnam scenes in Kong: Skull Island feature some of the nation’s most stunning and iconic locales. For instance, the Trang An Scenic Landscape Complex in Ninh Binh served as the backdrop for the film’s Skull Island setting, while the majestic Ha Long Bay provided the backdrop for pivotal scenes. Despite logistical challenges, such as transporting equipment and crew to remote areas, the effort was rewarded as the film’s Vietnam sequences beautifully showcased the country’s natural splendor and rich cultural heritage to global audiences. The filming of Kong: Skull Island in Vietnam served as a significant milestone, spotlighting Vietnam as an attractive filming destination and tourist hotspot. With its stunning landscapes and warm hospitality, Vietnam continues to entice filmmakers and travelers, cementing its status as a sought-after destination for both cinematic endeavors and leisurely exploration. Explore more about the filming locations in Vietnam below.
📍 Map of the filming locations in Vietnam- Kong: Skull Island:
Kong: Skull Island was filmed in these provinces > Quang Ninh (Ha Long Bay), Ninh Binh, Quang Binh.
1. Quang Ninh Province (Ha Long Bay):
Ha Long Bay – one of the most fascinating, but very tourist sites throughout Vietnam. About 2,000 mountainous islands, islets and karst formations creates a unique place in the whole world. This place was written in UNESCO World Heritage List. Travel agencies in Ha Long already offer a variety of boat trips and trips focusing on the places where this movie was filmed. The bay is known for its emerald green waters, towering limestone pillars, and thousands of small islands and islets. It has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1994 and is considered one of the country’s top tourist destinations. Ha Long Bay covers an area of around 1,500 square kilometers and is home to a diverse ecosystem that includes over 1,000 species of flora and fauna. The bay is also home to a number of small fishing villages, where locals make a living from fishing and tourism. Visitors to Ha Long Bay can take a boat tour to explore the bay’s many islands and caves, such as the famous Hang Sung Sot cave, which features stunning rock formations and stalactites.
🎥 Filming locations of Kong: Skull Island in Ha Long Bay:
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- Ba Hang – a group of several karst formations and islands Ha Long Bay. You can see this place from Bai Tho viewpoint (Núi Bai Tho).
- Thiên Cung Cave – the cave on the Đầu Gỗ Island, 5 km from the Tuần Châu tourist island.
- Sung Sot Cave – well-known big cave, 10 km east of Cat Ba Island.
- Ngoc Vun Island – is the larger island, located approximately 15 km west of the Quan Lan Island.
How to get from Hanoi to Ha Long?
Book your stay in Ha Long Bay ➜
2. Ninh Binh Province:
Ninh Binh – another of the filming sites of Kong in northern Vietnam. Neighborhood near the city covers a huge area of karst scenery interwoven of the rivers and rice fields, where it is possible to buy some of the boat trips. This place is also called „Inland Ha Long“ because of the similarity with the Ha Long Bay. However, it is significantly smaller than Ha Long Bay, but this region has a great historical significance. Places such as Hoa Lu (formerly a historic capital of Vietnam), Trang An Landscape Complex and Bai Dinh Buddhist temple are the national and cultural heritage of Vietnam.
🎥 Filming locations of Kong: Skull Island in Ninh Binh:
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- Van Long Nature Reserve – karst scenery, similar site Tam Coc or Trang An, less popular, boat trips possible. Van Long Nature Reserve is about 20 km from the Ninh Binh town, rent a motorbike and go.
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- Tràng An Landscape Complex – karst scenery and beautiful and very popular historic site written in UNESCO World Heritage List. Boat trips possible. There are several smaller buddhist pagodas and temples.
UPDATE (September 2019): Kong: Skull Island film set was removed from world heritage site in Trang An. The removal is part of heritage conservation efforts. The film set, with around 40 rattan tents and daily-life tools which are part of a tribal village depicted in the movie, was open free to visitors since April 2017. Models of a ship and airplane resembling those in the film were also on display (more informations).
- Tràng An Landscape Complex – karst scenery and beautiful and very popular historic site written in UNESCO World Heritage List. Boat trips possible. There are several smaller buddhist pagodas and temples.
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- Tam Coc – Bich Dong – a popular tourist site and karst scenery similar to Trang An. Boat trips possible. There are several smaller buddhist pagodas and palaces. Appropriate choice of the movement is bicycle, no hills or climb.
How to get from Hanoi to Ninh Binh?
3. Quang Binh Province:
Quang Binh – this place is known mainly through the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and the largest cave in the world – Son Doong Cave. Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a stunning natural wonder located in the Quang Binh province of central Vietnam. The park is home to some of the world’s most impressive caves and underground rivers, as well as lush forests and unique biodiversity. It was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2003. The park’s most famous attraction is the Son Doong Cave, which is the world’s largest cave by volume. Visitors to the park can take guided tours to explore the cave’s breathtaking chambers, which feature massive stalactites and stalagmites, underground rivers, and unique wildlife. In addition to Son Doong Cave, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is home to several other notable caves, such as the Paradise Cave, the Phong Nha Cave, and the Hang En Cave. Visitors can also take part in activities such as jungle trekking, kayaking, and zip-lining in the park.
🎥 Filming locations of Kong: Skull Island in Quang Binh:
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- Phong Nha-Kẻ Bàng National Park – karst and mountainious scenery, caves, hills, trekking, nature. Tourist place and the most visited place in the province of Quang Binh.
- Da Deo Pass + Cha Noi valley – pass, which winds around the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park and nearby Cha Noi Valley.
- Yen Phu Lake – it is not so well-known place, located about 15 km west of the Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park.
- „Rat cave“ (Tu Lan Cave Complex) – a cave complex, approximately 25 km from the Phong Nha-Ke Bang Park.
How to get from Hanoi to Dong Hoi?
Book your stay in Phong Nha-Ke Bang ➜
Vietnam’s Cinematic Impact: ‚Kong: Skull Island‘ Ratings and Tourism Boost
„Kong: Skull Island“ left a lasting impression on Vietnam, transcending mere entertainment to become a cultural phenomenon. Despite any personal preferences regarding the movie’s genre, its impact on the country’s film industry and tourism sector is undeniable.
The film’s success at the box office, surpassing the $500 million mark within a month of its premiere, highlights its widespread appeal and popularity worldwide. In Vietnam, the movie’s success not only bolstered the country’s film industry but also showcased its stunning landscapes to a global audience, potentially attracting more tourists eager to explore the iconic locations featured in the film.
The proposal to erect a statue of Kong near Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Lake underscores the cultural significance of the movie within Vietnam. While the plan was ultimately shelved, at least temporarily, it speaks to the enthusiasm and pride that the Vietnamese people felt toward their country’s role in the film.
Furthermore, the positive ratings received by „Kong: Skull Island“ on platforms like IMDB.com and Rottentomatoes.com reflect the film’s widespread acclaim. With a rating of 6.7/10 on IMDB and 76% on Rotten Tomatoes, the movie resonated well with audiences and critics alike, cementing its status as a successful and well-received cinematic endeavor.
Kong: Skull Island Movie
Director: Jordan Vogt-Roberts
Music: Henry Jackman
Production companies: Warner Bros., Legendary Pictures, Tencent Pictures
Duration: 120 minutes
Interesting Facts:
- Visual Effects: Stunning CGI brings Kong to life.
- Iconic Locations: Filmed in Vietnam, Australia, and Hawaii.
- Ensemble Cast: Features Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, Samuel L. Jackson, and more.
- Musical Score: Composed by Henry Jackman, enhancing the film’s atmosphere.
- Production Collaboration: Involves Warner Bros., Legendary Pictures, and Tencent Pictures.
- Duration: The movie runs for 120 minutes, delivering an action-packed experience.
Movie trailer: Kong: Skull Island (locations in Vietnam):
❓ Frequently Asked Questions – Kong: Skull Island in Vietnam:
1. Where was Kong Skull Island filmed in Vietnam?
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- „Kong: Skull Island“ was primarily filmed in various locations in Vietnam, including Ninh Binh, Quang Binh, and the province of Quang Ninh. Ninh Binh, known for its stunning landscapes of limestone karsts and rice paddies, provided the backdrop for many of the film’s jungle scenes. Quang Binh, particularly its famous Son Doong Cave in Phong Nha-Ke Bang, served as the setting for some of the film’s cave sequences. Additionally, parts of the film were shot in the famous Ha Long Bay in Quang Ninh province, known for its emerald waters and towering limestone islands. These locations in Vietnam helped to create the visually spectacular and immersive world of Skull Island depicted in the film.
2. Is Skull Island a real place?
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- No, Skull Island is not a real place. It is a fictional island depicted in various works of fiction, most notably in the „King Kong“ franchise. In the movies, Skull Island is portrayed as a remote and mysterious island inhabited by dangerous creatures, including the iconic giant ape, King Kong. While Skull Island itself is not real, it serves as a fantastical setting for adventure and exploration in storytelling.
3. When the Kong: Skull Island was filmed?
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- „Kong: Skull Island“ was primarily filmed from October 2015 to March 2016. The production spanned several months to capture the various scenes and environments required for the film, including filming in Vietnam, Australia, and Hawaii during this time frame. Post-production work, including visual effects and editing, followed the filming period, leading up to the movie’s release in March 2017..
4. How tall is Kong in Skull Island?
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- In „Kong: Skull Island,“ Kong’s height is depicted as approximately 104 feet (31.7 meters). This measurement was provided by the filmmakers to give audiences a sense of the massive scale of the iconic giant ape in the context of the film’s story. Kong’s size is an important aspect of his character, emphasizing his formidable presence and dominance in his domain, Skull Island.
5. How to explore Halong Bay?
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- To explore Halong Bay, book a cruise tour for a day or multi-day adventure. Enjoy kayaking through limestone karsts, visit floating fishing villages, swim, snorkel, hike for panoramic views, relax onboard, and witness stunning sunsets over the bay.
6. How you can book bus/train tickets to Ha Long, Ninh Binh or Dong Hoi?
7. Did the filming of Kong: Skull Island have any impact on the environment in Vietnam?
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- The filming of „Kong: Skull Island“ in Vietnam likely had some environmental impact, as is common with large-scale film productions. However, specific details about the extent of this impact are not readily available in public sources. Filming activities, such as constructing sets, transportation of equipment, and waste management, can potentially affect local ecosystems, wildlife habitats, and communities. Measures are typically taken to mitigate these impacts, such as adhering to environmental regulations, implementing sustainable practices, and conducting environmental assessments.
8. Were any Vietnamese actors or crew members involved in the making of Kong: Skull Island?
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- Yes, „Kong: Skull Island“ did involve Vietnamese actors and crew members in various capacities during production. While the main cast primarily consisted of Hollywood actors such as Tom Hiddleston, Brie Larson, and Samuel L. Jackson, the film also featured Vietnamese actors in supporting roles. Additionally, the production likely hired local Vietnamese crew members to assist with various aspects of the filmmaking process, including location scouting, set construction, transportation, and other logistical tasks. Involving local talent and expertise is common practice in international film productions, especially when shooting on location in foreign countries like Vietnam.
9. Did the film crew face any challenges while filming in Vietnam?
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- During the filming of „Kong: Skull Island“ in Vietnam, the crew may have encountered hurdles typical of international productions. These could include navigating the country’s unpredictable weather patterns, logistical complexities in remote filming locations, communication barriers, cultural differences, and ensuring environmental preservation during filming. Despite these challenges, the production likely benefited from Vietnam’s stunning landscapes and the contributions of local talent and expertise.
10. Did the filming of Kong: Skull Island in Vietnam boost tourism in the country?
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- The filming of „Kong: Skull Island“ in Vietnam likely generated increased interest in the country as a tourist destination due to the exposure of its breathtaking landscapes, such as Halong Bay and Ninh Binh, to a global audience. This heightened visibility may have led to more travelers being drawn to Vietnam to experience the locations featured in the film firsthand, benefiting local businesses and the tourism industry as a whole.
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| ℹ️ Facts about Filming Kong: Skull Island in Vietnam: | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Breathtaking Locations: |
„Kong: Skull Island“ was filmed in various breathtaking locations in Vietnam. The film showcases the country’s stunning landscapes, including Ha Long Bay, Trang An, and Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park. These iconic settings provided the perfect backdrop for the film’s fictional Skull Island, creating a visually captivating experience. |
| 2. Awe-Inspiring Ha Long Bay: |
Ha Long Bay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, played a significant role in the movie’s visuals. Its otherworldly limestone karsts rising from the emerald waters of the Gulf of Tonkin added a sense of mystique to the film’s setting. „Kong: Skull Island“ showcased the bay’s ethereal beauty, making it a star in its own right. |
| 3. Exploring Phong Nha-Ke Bang: |
Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park, known for its impressive cave systems, served as another vital filming location. The park’s unique karst landscapes and pristine rivers provided a backdrop for the film’s expedition scenes. The lush, jungle-covered terrain added an authentic touch to the adventure. |
| 4. Real-Life Inspiration: |
While „Kong: Skull Island“ is a fictional tale of the colossal ape, it drew inspiration from the legends of giant apes and the mysteries of uncharted territories. The filmmakers‘ choice of Vietnam as a location was influenced by its untamed and exotic landscapes, echoing the sense of exploration seen in the film. |
| 5. Cultural Collaboration: |
The production of „Kong: Skull Island“ involved collaboration with local communities and experts. Vietnamese culture and traditions were incorporated into the film’s narrative, with scenes depicting local customs and folklore. This cultural integration added authenticity and depth to the story. |
| 6. Cinematic Transformation: |
Vietnam’s natural beauty underwent a cinematic transformation to become the mysterious and perilous Skull Island. The filmmakers‘ artistry and special effects turned serene landscapes into a world filled with prehistoric creatures and uncharted territories, making the film a visual spectacle. |
| 7. Epic Action Sequences: |
„Kong: Skull Island“ featured epic action sequences filmed in Vietnam’s scenic locales. The dramatic chopper battles and thrilling confrontations between Kong and other creatures were brought to life in the country’s pristine wilderness. The combination of stunning landscapes and intense action made for unforgettable scenes. |
| 8. Preserving Vietnam’s Beauty: |
The filmmakers and environmentalists worked together to ensure the preservation of Vietnam’s natural beauty during the production. Measures were taken to minimize the impact of filming on these delicate ecosystems. This commitment to conservation reflects the importance of safeguarding Vietnam’s exceptional landscapes. |
| 9. Tourist Attraction: |
The film’s success brought increased attention to the stunning locations in Vietnam where it was shot. As a result, these places have become popular tourist attractions, attracting visitors from around the world who wish to experience the same awe-inspiring landscapes depicted in the movie. |
| 10. A Cinematic Showcase: |
„Kong: Skull Island“ transformed Vietnam into a cinematic showcase of its natural beauty and cultural richness. The film not only entertained audiences but also celebrated the country’s enchanting landscapes, serving as an invitation for travelers to explore the real-life wonders of Vietnam. |
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