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The charm of Rú Chá.
The route to Rú Chá.
Rú Chá stands as a precious pristine mangrove forest within the Tam Giang lagoon system, nestled in Thuận Hòa village (Hương Phong commune, Hương Trà district, Thừa Thiên Huế province). Encompassing an area of approximately 5 hectares, Rú Chá serves as a saltwater barrier forest, safeguarding the mainland.
Rú Chá functions as a saltwater barrier forest.
From the heart of Huế city, take QL49 towards Thuận An beach for about 9 km until you reach a signpost: straight ahead leads to Thuận An beach, turn left to cross Tam Giang bridge. Choose the left turn towards Tam Giang bridge, travel about 4 km to reach Rú Chá.
About 4 - 5 years ago, accessing Rú Chá required parking outside, then walking, sometimes wading through water, taking a boat, or navigating muddy dirt roads, often leaving one's feet and hands caked in mud like working in a rice field. However, in recent years, the road to Rú Chá has been paved with concrete, greatly improving accessibility.
The route to Rú Chá (the distant red-tiled roof tower is the newly constructed observation tower).
What to do at Rú Chá?
Apart from researchers studying the last remaining pristine mangrove forest in Huế, most visitors come here for photography, including couples for wedding photoshoots. Many also come to Rú Chá to admire the sky and water, seeking relaxation. From any angle, Rú Chá is enchanting.
You can strike poses freely from every angle.
Here, you can stroll along the small concrete path with a few short branches, or explore the dirt roads to marvel at the eerie mangrove roots, the intertwining branches creating a cathedral-like atmosphere that attracts many couples seeking to capture memorable moments. Gazing at the trees reflecting on the tranquil water, you'll surely want to stay here all day.
The intertwining canopy of trees creates a rather romantic atmosphere.
The tree branches cast shimmering shadows onto the peaceful water surface.
A young person engrossed in striking poses for photos.
Children are busy catching crabs.
Recently, they even erected a sturdy concrete tower in the midst of the mangrove forest, serving as both an observation tower overlooking the entire mangrove area and an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts to unleash their creativity. Standing atop the tower, a vast expanse of Tam Giang River unfolds before your eyes, as if you can see the whole wide world beyond.
The observation tower.
View of Tam Giang lagoon from the observation tower.
Sunset at Rú Chá.
Shrine of the Holy Mother.
What to eat at Rú Chá?
When visiting Rú Chá, it's best not to bring any food with you. There's a couple, Mr. Đáp and Mrs. Hồng (locally known as ôn Đáp - mệ Hồng), who left the city to live in the forest voluntarily, dedicating over thirty years to forest conservation. Some regular guests have their contact number and pre-order meals before arriving. However, for passing travelers who wish to dine with the couple, simply approach and request a meal; they offer what they have, and guests leave a small token of appreciation, which the couple readily accepts.
Mrs. Hồng sits enjoying the cool breeze in front of the house.
Inside the house, there are always fish in the pond, free-range chickens in the garden, depending on your preference. The meals prepared by this 'Huế Robinson' couple will leave an unforgettable impression on you. Hence, I advise you not to bring any food with you. Just knock on the door and ask for food; whatever they have, you eat. It will be a truly fascinating experience.
The only house within Rú Chá.
If you're looking for good and affordable seafood restaurants, you can visit Cồn Tè, located 2 km from Rú Chá on the way back to the city center. You'll see signs directing you to Cồn Tè before reaching Rú Chá; ignore these signs and continue to Rú Chá first. Afterward, head to Cồn Tè. Here, you'll find many rustic eateries serving a variety of delicious seafood dishes. In the afternoon, many people from the city come here to enjoy both food and relaxation.
Direction sign along the way.
Cồn Tè.
If you visit Huế in September, you'll witness a breathtaking autumn scenery, adorned in golden hues, unmatched anywhere else. During that time, the mangrove forest undergoes a stunning transformation, transitioning from green to yellow, then red, presenting a mesmerizing sight.
Autumn colors at Rú Chá.
A tranquil Rú Chá.
Who says Huế doesn't have autumn? Not only does it exist, but it's also a romantic golden autumn. Don't believe it? Come to the mangrove forest of Rú Chá once to experience it.Author: Nguyễn Thị Mai Trang
* This article participates in the Mytour Golocal program.
Mytour Golocal is a blogging program introducing beautiful destinations across Vietnam. It's a great opportunity to promote local tourism to everyone. For each qualified article, you'll receive 800,000 VND and a chance to become a contributor with Mytour. For more information about the program, visit: https://www.Mytour/vi-vn/golocal
