Top 20 Famous Tourist Attractions in Hue

Tu Dam Pagoda was established around 1695 by the Venerable Minh Hoang - Tu Dung (from China, belonging to the 34th generation of the Linji Zen sect). Originally named An Ton, symbolizing the transmission of the mind as the core principle of the pagoda, it was later renovated by Minh Hoang – Tu Dung in 1703. At that time, Nguyen Phuc Chu, the sixth ruler of the Nguyen Dynasty in southern Vietnam, officially recognized it as "Sac Tu An Ton Tu." Like other Vietnamese pagodas, Tu Dam Pagoda features a blend of traditional and modern architectural styles. The pagoda is set in a spacious, serene environment, surrounded by trees. Its structure includes three parts: the main gate (a typical triple-arched gate seen in traditional Vietnamese pagodas), the main temple, and the communal house.

The main gate, tall and wide, has a graceful tiled roof, and behind it stands a Bodhi tree that provides cool shade year-round. This tree, a sapling from the original Bodhi tree under which Buddha attained enlightenment, was planted in 1936, a gift from Mrs. Karpeies, the president of the Buddhist Association of France. The pagoda's courtyard is wide and paved with smooth stones, providing ample space for thousands of visitors.

The main temple consists of the front hall, the main hall, and the ancestral hall. The front hall, elevated on a granite base, has a traditional rooftop design, making the pagoda appear taller than usual. Dragons, elegantly coiled and symmetrical, decorate the eaves and roof, contributing to the harmony and beauty of the building. Beneath the rooftop, there are sculpted reliefs depicting the Buddha’s life, neatly arranged in framed panels. Along the columns of the front hall, intricate carvings of couplets can be found. On each side of the hall, there are bell and drum towers. The main hall is a place of solemn worship, with a statue of the Buddha seated on a lotus throne at the center, flanked by the Bodhisattvas Manjusri and Samantabhadra. Tu Dam Pagoda has a simpler layout compared to other pagodas in Hue, as it focuses on a singular Buddhist practice. To the right of the main hall are the guest house and the monks' quarters. In front of the guest house, a small garden features a bust of layperson Tam Minh, a key figure in the pagoda's history and in the Vietnamese Buddhist revival movement.

Tu Dam Pagoda regularly hosts high-ranking Buddhist dignitaries, scholars, and many visitors from both within Vietnam and abroad, who come to explore the temple and offer prayers. In addition to its historical significance, visitors can also enjoy the beautiful architecture and serene atmosphere of the pagoda.

Dong Ba Market is a popular destination that attracts visitors, whether it's sunny or rainy, whether their trip to Hue is short or long. The market has become an iconic architectural landmark, standing for over 110 years, having weathered the ups and downs of Hue's history.

Spanning a large area from Gia Hoi Bridge to Trang Tien Bridge, Dong Ba Market consists of three floors and thousands of bustling stalls. It has become the central supplier of fine ingredients for restaurants and hotels catering to tourists visiting Hue’s World Heritage sites.

Particularly, Dong Ba Market promotes commercial civility, characterized by courteous service and fair pricing. Within the market, visitors can find Hue’s signature cultural items, such as Phu Cam conical hats, Hien Luong knives, Kế Môn jewelry, Sinh Village paper flowers, Truoi oil, Tuân tea, Hương Cần tangerines, Lai Bang pomelos, Tinh Lake dried lotus, Thiên Hương sesame candies, royal tea, and the famous sour shrimp of Hue... making it a perfect spot to buy souvenirs. Dong Ba Market also offers a wide range of spices, Hue’s fermented fish sauce, jams, souvenirs, and daily necessities. It's an ideal place for visitors to enjoy Hue's local snacks, including rice with mussels, beef noodle soup, fermented fish noodle soup, shrimp cakes, rice noodle soup, lotus leaf cakes, crispy pancakes, mung bean desserts... all at affordable prices.

Visitors to Dong Ba Market are immersed in a colorful atmosphere filled with local products, and it's a great opportunity to experience the “old soul” of the city. Amid the busy hustle and bustle of buyers and sellers, one can still sense the simple beauty of life through the ages, from history to daily living.

Khai Dinh Tomb in Hue is situated on the slopes of Chau Chu Mountain, outside the Imperial City, about 11 km south. Khai Dinh Tomb (Ung Lang) has become a symbol, representing the peak of porcelain and glass artistry.

In comparison to the tombs of other Nguyen emperors, Ung Lang is much smaller (117m x 48.5m), but it is an incredibly intricate and time-consuming project. Architecturally, it stands out from the traditional Nguyen dynasty designs due to its novelty, flamboyance, and blending of multiple architectural styles, including Buddhism, Hinduism, Roman, and Gothic, reflecting a fusion of Eastern and Western cultures during a transitional period, as well as the personality of Emperor Khai Dinh.

The tomb is a rectangular structure that rises high with 127 steps. The climb starts with 37 steps, decorated with large dragon sculptures, leading to a courtyard with two rows of statues on each side, gazing towards the center. Notably, six pairs of rare stone statues of mythical creatures stand guard at the entrance. The Thiên Định Hall, at the highest point, is the main architectural feature where the craftsmanship of the builders is most evident.

The entire interior of the three central rooms is elaborately decorated with porcelain mosaic art. The walls are adorned with murals, the floors are covered in floral tiles, and the ceiling features the stunning “Nine Dragons Hidden in the Clouds” design. A particularly striking feature is the canopy above the emperor’s tomb, which appears to be made of silk due to its soft, elegant curves, but is actually a nearly one-ton concrete structure. Beneath it lies a bronze statue of Emperor Khai Dinh, cast in France in 1920. The entire decoration inside the Thiên Định Hall not only reflects the architectural value of the tomb but also conveys the emperor’s philosophical thoughts and the purpose behind the construction.

Although criticized from various perspectives, Khai Dinh Tomb in Hue remains a masterpiece of art and architecture, enriching the imperial tomb complex of the ancient capital and attracting numerous tourists.

Truong Tien Bridge, also known as Thanh Thai Bridge, Nguyen Hoang Bridge, or Clemenceau Bridge, is an iconic bridge spanning the Perfume River. The northern end of the bridge is located in Phu Hoa Ward, while the southern end lies in Phu Hoi Ward, right in the center of Hue city at coordinates 16.468889°N - 107.588611°E.

The Truong Tien Bridge is considered one of Hue's symbols, often mentioned in the stories of seasoned travelers and even those visiting Hue for the first time.

The Truong Tien Bridge is designed in Gothic architecture, stretching over 400 meters across the picturesque Perfume River. The bridge consists of six steel arches shaped like a fan, and when viewed from above, it appears graceful and simple, adding charm to the Perfume River and enhancing its beauty. If you visit Hue and stay at a hotel near the river, you'll have the chance to admire the Truong Tien Bridge as it curves like a giant wave over the emerald-green waters of the Perfume River.

With over 100 years of history, Truong Tien Bridge carries the deep emotions of the people of Hue and holds significant memories for travelers who have visited. Standing on the bridge, gazing at the Perfume River flowing beneath, you can see the northern end leading to the historic and bustling Phu Hoa Ward, while the southern end leads to the developing Phu Hoi Ward. This contrast highlights the immense significance of Truong Tien Bridge to Hue.

Over time, Truong Tien Bridge has retained a unique and timeless beauty, reflecting the distinct charm of Hue. If you haven't had the chance to visit yet, a trip to Hue will undoubtedly captivate you with its allure.

Lang Co is located 60km from Hue’s city center and only 40km from Phu Bai International Airport. The Lang Co Beach stretches approximately 10km and is located in Lang Co Town, Phu Loc District, Thua Thien-Hue Province, adjacent to National Route 1A, under the famous Hai Van Pass. Lang Co Bay was added to the prestigious 'Most Beautiful Bays in the World' club in June 2009 as its 30th member. This bay is a paradise for those who love the ocean, offering a long, gently sloping shoreline, white sand, crystal-clear waters, and an average temperature of around 25°C in the summer, making it a refreshing retreat.

Lang Co Bay offers stunning natural landscapes, making it an ideal destination for a relaxing holiday. Historically, King Khai Dinh of the Nguyen Dynasty built a palace here named “Tinh Viem Palace” (the Palace of Coolness) where the royal family would retreat during the hot summer months. The French also left their mark here, and the name Lang Co may have evolved from "Làng Cò" or "L'An Cư" due to mispronunciation by the French.

With its captivating scenery, Lang Co stretches across one of the most beautiful coastlines in Vietnam. It boasts lush tropical forests, fine white sands, warm sunshine, and crystal-clear waters, making it an idyllic retreat. Lang Co is the third Vietnamese bay, after Ha Long and Nha Trang, to be included in the list of the world’s 30 most beautiful bays. The area has attracted substantial tourism investment, both from domestic and international developers, resulting in the development of numerous resorts and other tourism services. Lang Co is now one of the most sought-after destinations for both local and international tourists.

Anyone visiting Lang Co cannot resist its peaceful and mesmerizing natural beauty. This small and tranquil town offers the perfect setting for relaxation, with plenty of beach activities. Additionally, visitors can indulge in fresh seafood and explore local attractions like Chan May and the nearby Lang Co fishing village.

The Tomb of Tu Duc is one of the most beautiful architectural works from the Nguyen Dynasty. King Tu Duc (1848-1883), a poet king, chose a resting place worthy of his royal status, reflecting his scholarly and poetic nature. The tomb is located in a narrow valley in Duong Xuan Thuong village, Cu Chanh district (now Thượng Ba village, Thuy Xuan commune, Hue city).

Set in a narrow valley of Duong Xuan Thuong village, the Tomb of Tu Duc (also known as Khiem Lang) is arguably the most beautiful of the Nguyen Dynasty’s royal tombs. Its beauty lies in the harmony between the natural landscape of 'charming mountains and rivers' and the expansive architectural space. Surrounded by lush greenery and a large lake, the tomb exudes an ancient and intricate architectural style that blends seamlessly with the natural surroundings, creating a tranquil and poetic atmosphere.

When construction began, King Tu Duc initially named the tomb Vạn Niên Cơ, but after the Chay Voi uprising led by the Đoàn Hữu Trưng brothers, the king renamed it Khiem Cung, which later became Khiem Lang after his death.

The layout of the tomb consists of two main parts, arranged along two parallel axes, with Mount Giang Khiem in the front serving as the ceremonial entrance, and Mount Duong Xuan forming the backdrop, while the Luu Khiem Lake acts as the symbolic center.

The entire Tomb of Tu Duc resembles a vast park, where a stream flows year-round, birds sing, and the trees rustle in the wind. The tomb is unique for its winding paths instead of straight lines, which are commonly found in other architectural works. A brick path from the entrance of Vụ Khiêm leads to the Khiêm Cung gate, then meanders in front of the tomb, disappearing behind tall frangipani trees near the queen's tomb. The design skillfully integrates human creativity with nature, creating a dreamy, breathtaking landscape. Surrounded by mist, the scent of flowers, and the sound of water, it feels like a paradise rather than a royal tomb.

Every time visitors come to Hue, countless people find themselves moved by the romantic and poetic beauty of the Perfume River. This river has inspired many poets, becoming a symbol of longing for the ancient capital. The Perfume River flows gently like a silk ribbon that wraps around the city of Hue.

Visiting the former imperial capital and not experiencing the beauty of the river is like never having truly set foot in Hue. The Perfume River winds through fragrant herbal forests as it makes its way to the city. Upon reaching Hue, the river is beautiful from its source, meandering through nature’s aromatic embrace, a gift from the heavens to this land.

The Perfume River flows gracefully past the Imperial City, the Forbidden City, and the Imperial Palace, enhancing the natural beauty of this unique feudal capital. The Perfume River stretches over 80 kilometers, with a 30-kilometer stretch from Bang Lang to the Thuận An estuary.

Symbolic and cherished by the people of Hue, the Perfume River is like a long, soft silk ribbon, flowing endlessly through the dreamy capital. The river’s emerald green waters are crystal-clear, reflecting the charming cityscape beneath its calm surface, sparkling in the sunlight. Many artists, drifting down the river on boats while listening to traditional Hue folk music, have found inspiration to create timeless poetry and literature. You can choose from a range of hotels along the river to fully enjoy your visit.

If you are looking for a place to enjoy a panoramic view of the city, visit Vọng Cảnh Hill. From the vantage point of Lầu Vọng Cảnh, you will be able to admire the picturesque, romantic scenery of the Perfume River along with the ancient tombs and temples. In the distance, you will see majestic mountains. If possible, visit Vọng Cảnh Hill at sunrise or sunset, when the entire sky of Hue seems to glow in the dazzling sunlight.

Vọng Cảnh Hill is located on Huyền Trân Công Chúa Street, Thủy Biều Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province, Vietnam. Standing on Vọng Cảnh Hill, visitors can take in a sweeping view of many ancient sites and the stunning beauty of the vast natural surroundings. From here, you can spot the tombs of the Nguyen emperors, such as Minh Mang, Hòn Chén, Khai Dinh, Tu Duc, Thieu Tri, and Dong Khanh.

What stands out most is the mesmerizing, poetic beauty of the Perfume River—an icon of Hue’s natural beauty. The hill is situated at the most enchanting bend of the river. From above, the Perfume River appears like a soft, flowing silk ribbon gently resting at the foot of the hill.

Apart from the poetic Perfume River, Ngự Bình Mountain is also a symbol of nature and a point of pride for the people of Hue. When you think of the Perfume River, you can’t forget Ngự Bình Mountain. From the summit of this beautiful mountain, you can gaze far into the distance and admire the stunning, picturesque scenery of Hue city. The area from the base to the peak is covered with lush pine forests, and the cool breeze creates a serene atmosphere that offers complete relaxation.

This place is renowned for its vast pine forest, where the sight of the river, the trees, and temples at the summit forms a vibrant, unique picture of the Hue region. It was once known as Bằng Sơn, later renamed Ngự Bình Mountain, though locals often simply call it Ngự Mountain.

Located in An Cựu, Hue City, the site is easily accessible. Visitors can enjoy a vast sky and the peaceful, refreshing air of the mountain. This mountain has been a beloved landmark for the people of Hue since ancient times and holds significant historical value in the city’s legacy.

Located on the slopes of Ngọc Trẩn Mountain, partially hidden among lush greenery and casting its reflection on the Perfume River, Hòn Chén Temple is a historical and religious complex that includes 10 structures with unique, ancient architectural features. The site is a cultural and spiritual tourism destination, especially popular during the annual festivals held in the third and seventh lunar months.

Hòn Chén Temple is tied to many legends. According to one tale, the temple was once known as Hoàn Chén, meaning 'Return the Jade Cup'. The story goes that Emperor Minh Mạng once dropped a jade cup into the Perfume River while visiting. Just when it seemed impossible to retrieve, a large turtle appeared and returned the cup to the emperor. Despite this, official royal documents from the Nguyen Dynasty continued to refer to the temple as 'Ngọc Trản Sơn Từ', meaning the temple on the Ngọc Trản mountain. During Emperor Đồng Khánh's reign, the temple's name was changed to Huệ Nam Điện, meaning 'The Temple that Grants Blessings to the King of the South', and was associated with other stories as well.

Though known by several names, it is still most commonly referred to as Hòn Chén Temple or Hoàn Chén Temple. Originally, this temple was dedicated to the goddess PoNagar of the Cham people. According to legend, PoNagar, the daughter of the Jade Emperor, was sent to Earth where she created the world, plants, and rice crops.

Thiên An is a rolling hill area located to the south of Hue, along the road leading to Khải Định Tomb, about 2 kilometers past the Cầu Lim intersection. The area is dominated by a sea of green pine trees, dotted with sloping hills, thatched roofs, and winding paths.

Thủy Tiên Lake lies nestled among the lush green trees of Thiên An Hill. While the lake offers a peaceful, romantic atmosphere, Thiên An Hill itself resembles a 'mini Đà Lạt' with its pine-covered slopes. The combination of both creates a serene and refreshing environment for visitors to relax in a vast and tranquil setting. Thủy Tiên Lake is a beautiful water reservoir sourced from the Perfume River, featuring a pumping system with a capacity of 4,000 cubic meters per hour. The cool waters and clear skies at the mountaintop provide a refreshing escape. It has become a favorite spot for young visitors who enjoy leisurely boat rides on the lake, surrounded by the sound of rustling pine trees and the breeze. A grand water music stage with a seating capacity of 2,500 is under construction to enhance the experience for tourists, along with a network of 20 luxury rooms nestled among the hills, sure to impress anyone who visits.

Additionally, there are other facilities such as upscale restaurants offering famous Hue dishes like royal cakes and nem công chả phụng, as well as tennis courts and swimming pools. Since its opening, the Thủy Tiên Resort has welcomed hundreds of thousands of visitors, and its diverse aquatic ecosystem, from vibrant fish species to rare reptiles, continues to attract visitors eager to purchase tickets for a closer look.

Thuận An Beach is located in Thuận An Town, Phú Vang District, Thừa Thiên - Huế Province, right by the mouth of the Thuận An River. This is where the Perfume River flows towards the Tam Giang Lagoon and then empties into the vast East Sea. Because of this unique location, Thuận An Beach blends the serene beauty of the river with the expansive ocean. It is no wonder that King Thiệu Trị listed it as one of the top scenic spots in the ancient capital’s twelve notable views.

Thuận An Beach is also a favorite destination for many visitors to Hue, drawn by the calm waves and the idyllic charm of the beach. Immerse yourself in the refreshing cool waters, stroll along the golden sands sparkling in the sun, or indulge in fresh, delicious seafood to experience the perfect beach vacation in the beautiful Thuận An.

Travelers to Hue can reach Thuận An Beach in just 15 minutes by taxi, 30 minutes by motorbike, or 45 minutes on a bicycle. With summer approaching, there’s no better way to enjoy the stunning scenery and cool waters of Thuận An Beach.

Not far from the beautiful Lang Co Beach, Lap An Lagoon appears with its tranquil and mystical beauty. As the golden sunset slowly disappears behind the majestic Bach Ma Mountain range, the calm surface of the lagoon transforms into a vibrant mix of orange and deep green hues, creating a stunning watercolor-like scene. In addition to its mesmerizing beauty, the lagoon is also famous for its delicious oyster dishes, prepared from the locally harvested oysters.

Combine your trip to Lang Co Beach with a visit to Lap An Lagoon (also known as An Cu Lagoon), one of Hue’s most alluring destinations. As the golden sunset casts its colors on the lagoon, the water becomes a breathtaking painting of vivid colors. Moreover, the locals are well-known for oyster farming, so here you can savor fresh and flavorful oyster dishes while enjoying the picturesque scenery.

Located at the foot of the majestic Bach Ma Mountain, Truoi Lake is a vast hydropower project. At the center of the lake, the Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery stands as the first Zen monastery in Central Vietnam, resembling a lotus blossom floating in the clear waters. From the monastery, you can gaze out over the towering mountains and the ‘blue mountains, green waters’ beauty of Truoi Lake, surrounded by the cool, fresh air of this peaceful sanctuary.

Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery is located in the heart of Truoi Lake in Loc Hoa Commune, Phu Loc District, Thua Thien Hue Province. Not only is it a Zen monastery of the Truc Lam Yen Tu School in Central Vietnam, but it is also a scenic spot of Thua Thien Hue. To the right is the road leading to Truoi Dam, where you pass through a barren area with sparse houses, eventually arriving at Truoi Dam. The monastery is located about 500 meters from the dam, sitting peacefully in the middle of the lake, with a boat ride taking you to the monastery.

After the war, this city seemed to fall into a deep sleep, its memories fading with time. Today, Bach Ma has gradually come back to life, with the Truc Lam Bach Ma Zen Monastery giving the area a spiritual revitalization. From high points like Luong Dien Bridge (Truoi) or Ngur Binh (Hue), you can see the clouds over the mountain peaks shaped like a horse. That’s why this mountain range is called Bach Ma. For Westerners, the name Bach Ma symbolizes the warm, radiant sun. From the monastery, you can enjoy a magnificent view of the lush forests and cloud-capped mountains.

If you think that Hue only has tombs and mausoleums, and you only visit a few historical landmarks in the city, then you are sadly mistaken. Hue offers far more than that, with a wealth of stunning natural landscapes and picturesque scenery. Among these, the Bach Ma National Park stands out. A single day spent here will immerse you in the wild beauty of nature, from the cool streams and lakes of the Five Lakes to the thrilling climb to the top of the Vong Hai Dai peak and the majestic Do Quyen waterfall, which rises over 300 meters. It’s an ideal journey for those who love exploration, challenges, and conquering the wonders of nature.

Located about 40 kilometers from the city of Hue, Bach Ma National Park in Phu Loc and Nam Dong districts is a perfect destination for adventure seekers who want to explore, learn, and push their limits. The rugged, magnificent Bach Ma Mountain, its rich flora and fauna, and its breathtaking ecological beauty make it a must-see when visiting Hue.

When visiting Hue, you not only explore the resting places of the Nguyen emperors, meticulously built during their reign, but also visit the Imperial City, the administrative and living center of the royal court. Your journey will also include an experience at the Thuy Bieu ecological village. This peaceful village, located within Hue city, offers a tranquil atmosphere where you can relax and taste the delicious, traditional dishes that reflect the flavors of the ancient capital.

Situated about 5km from the city center, Thuy Bieu is the cradle of Hue's cultural heritage. The village is renowned for its Thanh Tra fruit, a local specialty that has been cultivated for centuries. While the origins of the tree remain uncertain, the tradition of growing Thanh Tra has been passed down through generations, ensuring that the fruit retains its high quality and rich flavor, beloved by all who taste it.

Thuy Bieu village is famous for its fragrant Thanh Tra orchards and ancient houses made from timber, some of which are hundreds of years old. No matter when you visit, you will be immersed in the serene beauty of the village, with tree-lined paths and the sweet fragrance of Thanh Tra filling the air. You can also cycle through the village, visiting local workshops that produce rice wine, incense, and traditional paper products, or even stop by a family-run art studio specializing in traditional painting.

Today, the people of Thuy Bieu know how to preserve and promote their unique local products, including the valuable Thanh Tra fruit. They connect agriculture, ecotourism, gastronomy, and cultural history, bringing the past, present, and future together to awaken the true potential of their community.

Located about 50 km from Hue, Loc Binh Beach is a perfect spot for those who wish to relax in peaceful, crystal-clear waters. The beach is famous for its long, wide sandy shores and clear blue water.

Visitors can reach Loc Binh Beach in two ways. The first option is to drive from central Hue on National Route 1A towards Hue-Da Nang, turn left at Phuoc Tuong Pass, then continue along National Route 49B for about 10 km to Tu Hien Bridge, and from there, go another 5 km. Alternatively, from Thuan An, take National Route 49B for over 40 km, then turn left at Tu Hien Bridge and go another 5 km to reach the beach.

The road leading to Loc Binh Beach winds through the mountains, with rows of trees offering a relaxing and pleasant atmosphere. Along the way, visitors can see traditional fishing traps set by locals, providing a picturesque view of the landscape.

The beach here has gentle waves and shallow waters, making it ideal for picnics, outdoor activities, and swimming for both adults and children. The area is also home to beautiful rocky beaches that should not be missed when visiting Loc Binh Beach.

At Loc Binh Beach, you'll find rocky shores and casuarina forests, perfect for photo opportunities. With various angles to explore, you can create stunning photos to share with friends.

Minh Mang Tomb is considered one of the most impressive and majestic tombs among the Nguyen dynasty’s architectural masterpieces. The entire area of the tomb complex spans 1,750m and is arranged symmetrically, creating a breathtakingly beautiful architectural ensemble. From above, the tomb resembles the shape of a resting figure, with its head facing Mount Kim Phung, its sides flanked by the Trưng Minh Lakes, and its feet placed comfortably on a river's confluence.

The tomb is surrounded by lush greenery, tranquil lakes, and the solid presence of mountains, all combining to form a stunning scene that inspires awe and admiration.

Upon entering the tomb grounds, visitors are greeted by symmetrical structures aligned along three main axes. In the center of the complex is a lotus pond that fills the air with its sweet fragrance. The simple, yet extraordinarily beautiful lotus flowers have become an iconic symbol of Vietnam’s royal tombs.

As you enter the tomb's ceremonial area, you will be fascinated by the Hiển Đức Môn gate. Symbolizing the spirit of the earth, this gate is constructed on a square piece of land. The focal point of this area is the Sùng Ân Palace, which houses the altars of the King and Queen. The atmosphere here is one of solemnity, antiquity, and reverence, though this sacred ambiance is confined within the walls of the tomb.

One must not miss the Tân Nguyệt Lake, which symbolizes the moon embracing the sun’s image in Bửu Thành. A bridge, Thông Minh Chính Trực, spans the lake and leads you to the resting place of King Minh Mang.

The beauty of the Minh Mang Tomb in Hue is a blend of classical, traditional aesthetics influenced by Confucianism, yet it retains an air of poetic romanticism.

The Imperial City of Hue was the center of administration and daily life for the last feudal dynasty of Vietnam. From Emperor Gia Long to Emperor Bao Dai, 13 Nguyen monarchs resided here until the dynasty ended with the abdication of Bao Dai in August 1945. The Imperial City has four gates, each located on a different side: the main gate, Ngọ Môn, is on the south, while the northern gate is Hòa Bình, the western gate is Chương Đức, and the eastern gate is Hiển Nhơn. In front of Ngọ Môn is Kỳ Đài and the public square, where cultural and artistic events are held during festivals. The Imperial City and its inner palace complex follow the principles of "left is male, right is female" and "left is for literature, right is for martial arts".

• The Forbidden Purple City: This private area was reserved exclusively for the king and his family, surrounded by various palaces like Duyệt Thị Đường, Cần Chánh, Càn Thành, Kiến Trung, and Khôn Thái.
• The Ceremony Area: This zone stretches from Ngọ Môn to the Thái Hòa Palace, where major royal ceremonies took place, such as the coronation, foreign diplomatic receptions, the king's birthday, National Day, military parades, and longevity celebrations.
• The Royal Temples: Located along the axis of the Imperial City, these temples honored the Nguyen emperors and included the Thế Miếu, Hưng Miếu, Thái Miếu, and Tổ Miếu.
• The Diên Thọ and Trường Sanh Palaces: These were areas for the queen mother and the king’s mother, with the Trường Sanh Palace reserved for the Dowager Empress and the Diên Thọ Palace for the Empress Dowager, while the Phụng Tiên Palace was open for female relatives who could not enter the Thế Miếu.
• The Gardens and Khâm Văn Palace: This area was used for learning, leisure, and listening to scholars teach Confucian classics to the princes during the reigns of Emperors Thiệu Trị and Tự Đức.

The Imperial City is vast, so to fully explore all the palaces, halls, and historical sites, visitors would need half a day or a full day to appreciate its grandeur.

Thiên Mụ Pagoda is one of the most famous landmarks in Hue, not only featured in romantic poems about the city but also considered a sacred site that no visitor should miss when visiting this ancient capital. Located on Ha Khe Hill, on the northern bank of the Perfume River in Kim Long Ward, Thiên Mụ Pagoda is about 5 kilometers west of the city center. It was founded in 1601 by the first Nguyen lord, Nguyen Hoang, and is considered the oldest pagoda in Hue.

Due to the rise and golden age of Buddhism in Central Vietnam, the pagoda underwent significant renovations during the reign of Lord Nguyen Phuc Chu (1691-1725). In 1710, Lord Phuc Chu commissioned the casting of the Đại Hồng Chung bell, weighing over two tons, with an inscription carved onto it. He also expanded the pagoda with several new buildings, including the Thiên Vương Palace, Đại Hùng Palace, Thuyet Phap Hall, Tàng Kinh Tower, Monk's Rooms, and Zen Halls. Many of these structures no longer exist today. Lord Phuc Chu also personally inscribed a stele, 2.6 meters tall and 1.2 meters wide, detailing the construction of these buildings. The stele rests on the back of a large stone turtle, decorated simply but beautifully.

Thanks to its natural beauty and the significant expansion over time, Thiên Mụ Pagoda became the most beautiful pagoda in Central Vietnam. Through various historical events, the pagoda has been restored multiple times during the reigns of Nguyen emperors. Emperor Thiệu Trị, the successor of Minh Mạng, built the Từ Nhân Tower in 1844, now known as the Phước Duyên Tower. Standing 21 meters tall with an octagonal shape and seven tiers, each dedicated to a different Buddha, the tower offers visitors a panoramic view of the serene Perfume River and the gentle boats floating along its waters.

Thiên Mụ Pagoda is considered one of the top 20 most beautiful spots in Hue. Over the years, in addition to the Phước Duyên Tower, Đại Hùng Palace, Địa Tạng Palace, Quan Âm Palace, stone steles, and bronze bells, the pagoda has become a repository of precious historical and artistic relics, including statues of the Dharma Protectors, Ten Kings, the Maitreya Buddha, and inscriptions that mark the glorious past of Thiên Mụ Pagoda.

When visiting Hue, it's impossible to miss Thiên Mụ Pagoda. With centuries of history, each architectural structure here holds a sense of reverence and blends harmoniously with the beautiful natural landscape. Visitors to Hue and Thiên Mụ Pagoda will find themselves drifting gently along the Perfume River, experiencing the peaceful and unique atmosphere of the city.