Explore the historic Imperial City located in the heart of Hue. Once the capital of the Nguyen Dynasty, the Imperial City is a vast complex of grand palaces, ornate temples, walls, and gates. A guided tour will offer you detailed insights into the rich history of Vietnam's feudal era and the significance of the royal architecture, which incorporates elements of Eastern philosophy, geomancy, and military strategies. As you walk through the ancient citadel, you'll encounter the Forbidden Purple City, reserved for the emperor, his family, and his concubines. Also, admire the beautifully landscaped gardens, intricate relief work, and well-preserved structures that have survived the test of time, including war damages.
Standing seven stories high, the Thien Mu Pagoda is a must-visit site on the banks of the Perfume River. This iconic pagoda, also known as the Heavenly Lady Pagoda, is a symbol of the city and a spiritual sanctuary with ties to many legends and historical events. Engage in a tranquil stroll in the surrounding gardens, appreciating the octagonal tower and the beautiful view of the river. Listen to the mesmerizing sound of the pagoda's giant bronze bell and observe the worshippers offering prayers. Visiting Thien Mu Pagoda allows you to gain a deeper understanding of Vietnamese Buddhism and its role in the lives of the locals. Don't miss the elaborate carvings and the historic Austin car displayed on the temple grounds, which tells a poignant story of a monk's protest against the South Vietnamese government.
A boat trip on the enchanting Perfume River is an ideal way to see the city from a different perspective. The river, named for the fragrant aroma that emanates from the flowers that fall into it in autumn, offers picturesque views of Hue's landscapes and historical monuments. Along the cruise, behold the sights of the Thien Mu Pagode, the Hon Chen Temple, and the tombs of the emperors, which are just as awe-inspiring from the water. The gentle cruise allows for a relaxing experience, and the riverside scenery, reflecting the changing colors of the sky as the sun sets, creates a photogenic backdrop for an unforgettable adventure. You can choose a simple sightseeing cruise or opt for one that includes a local meal or cultural performances on board.
The Tomb of Tu Duc, one of the most beautiful royal mausoleums around Hue, was designed by Emperor Tu Duc himself before his death. It's not just a burial site but a complex of structures that includes a lake, a pavilion, and a theatre where the emperor could relax with his many wives and concubines. As you walk through the peaceful gardens and lotus ponds, it's easy to imagine the royal leisure activities that took place amidst this serene landscape. The tomb also provides a glimpse into the architectural and philosophical ideas of the period, utilizing geomancy and blending harmoniously with the natural surroundings. Despite the many tombs around Hue, Tu Duc's final resting place is heralded for its quiet atmosphere and the intimate connection it offers between nature, architecture, and history.
No visit to Hue is complete without experiencing the bustling energy of Dong Ba Market, the city's largest and oldest traditional market. Here, you'll find an array of stalls selling everything from clothing, hats, and shoes to fresh produce and street food. It's a fantastic place to sample local delicacies like Bun Bo Hue, a spicy beef noodle soup, or Banh Beo, steamed rice cakes topped with shrimp. The market's colorful atmosphere provides a truly authentic glimpse into the lives of the local residents, as vendors call out their wares and the scents of various spices and cooked foods mingle in the air. Don't forget to put your bargaining skills to the test, as negotiating prices is part of the shopping culture and can lead to some great deals on souvenirs, textiles, and handcrafts.
Embark on a culinary adventure with a traditional Vietnamese cooking class in Hue, where you can learn about the unique flavors and techniques of Central Vietnamese cuisine, renowned for its sophistication and diversity. Typically, a cooking class begins with a visit to a local market where you'll get hands-on experience selecting fresh ingredients. Back in a traditional garden house or a local restaurant's kitchen, a skilled chef will lead you through the step-by-step process of preparing classic Hue dishes such as Banh Khoai (Hue pancake) or Nem Lui (lemongrass-skewered grilled meat). The best part? You'll get to savor your hand-made dishes at the end of the class, providing both a delicious meal and the satisfaction of having created it yourself.
Discover the serene beauty of Hue's countryside with a guided cycling tour. As you pedal through quaint villages and verdant rice paddies, you'll have the chance to witness the day-to-day activities of local farmers and learn about rural life in Vietnam. The tour often includes stops at family-run craft workshops, traditional pagodas, and communal houses, offering a deeper insight into the rich cultural heritage of the region. With the guidance of a knowledgeable local, you'll navigate the less-traveled paths and the peaceful surroundings of Thanh Toan Bridge, famed for its unique architecture and rural market. It's a refreshing break from the city's hustle and an opportunity to embrace the slower pace of country living, immerse in nature, and connect with the warm-hearted locals.
For a more offbeat and adventurous experience, visit the abandoned Ho Thuy Tien Waterpark, just outside of Hue. The park, which never officially opened to the public, offers an eerie yet exciting atmosphere for exploration. Adventurers and urban explorers can meander through overgrown vegetation to uncover forgotten slides, a derelict aquarium, and an imposing dragon structure. The dragon surrounds a lake and visitors can climb within its depths to find old control rooms and enjoy panoramic views from its toothy maw. This unusual site draws photographers and those intrigued by modern ruins, providing an interesting contrast to the city's traditional historic and cultural attractions. Remember to wear suitable footwear for navigating the area's potentially treacherous terrain.
Nature lovers should not miss the opportunity to visit Bach Ma National Park, a biodiversity hotspot nestled in the Annamite Mountains. Just an hour's drive from Hue, the park offers a range of trekking trails that take visitors through lush rainforests, beside tumbling waterfalls, and up to the peak of Bach Ma mountain. From the summit, you can enjoy breathtaking views that extend to the azure waters of the East Sea and the verdant surrounding valleys. Along the way, keep an eye out for the park's diverse wildlife, which includes rare species such as the Saola and the Indochinese tiger. Don't forget to take a dip in the cool pools of the Five Lakes cascade or marvel at the majestic Do Quyen Waterfall. Come prepared with good hiking shoes, plenty of water, and perhaps a guide if you're unfamiliar with the park's trails.
Experience the traditional art of Truc Chi, a fascinating craft that transforms bamboo pulp into intricate works of paper art. This unique art form, which originated in Hue, allows you to get creative and hands-on under the guidance of skilled artisans. The workshop introduces you to the process of pounding, spreading, and drying the bamboo pulp, before teaching you to decorate the paper using embossing techniques and natural pigments. By partaking in a Truc Chi workshop, not only will you gain insight into the delicate craftsmanship involved, but you'll also come away with your own piece of artwork—a perfect and personalized souvenir. It's a soothing and artistic way to connect with Hue's contemporary culture while honoring its traditional roots.
