Tho Chau

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Tho Chau Island or Tho Chu Island (Vietnamese Thổ Châu or Thổ Chu) is the Vietnam's furthest island from its shore.

In 1977, during the Cambodian-Vietnamese War, Khmer Rouge's forces attacked and occupied the island for a short time before Vietnam reclaimed the it with larger force. Being left on the island without any mean to escape, most of Khmer Rouge soldiers were killed. The casualties of both sides are unknown. In early 80s, I still found human bones scattered on the island. This is likely the bloodiest events in the history of this small remote island which is otherwise very beautiful and peaceful.

As one of the most beautiful island in the area, today Tho Chau is not found in the lists of tourist attractions. One wonders if it has become an army or navy base.