Top 9 Souvenirs You Must Buy in Hue

European tourists often choose traditional Vietnamese hats, like the ones worn by our grandmothers and mothers, as souvenirs. They are drawn to the unique and intriguing shape of these hats, which they find quite fascinating. While hats can be bought anywhere in Vietnam, the finest and most durable ones are crafted in Hue.

For centuries, the iconic conical hat, 'Nón Bài Thơ,' paired with the Ao Dai, has symbolized Hue’s rich cultural heritage. In this city, artisans have been perfecting the craft of hat-making for generations. The process involves over 15 meticulous steps, including harvesting and selecting leaves, shaping, ironing, trimming, stitching, and strengthening the brim. Achieving a perfect blend of lightness and beauty is no easy feat.

If you're looking for an authentic 'Nón Huế,' you can find them at various markets in Hue. These hats are known for their pristine white color and delicate, precise craftsmanship, making each one a true work of art.

Some popular stores to visit for Nón Huế:

• Chợ Dạ Lê - Nguyễn Tất Thành, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Chợ Đông Ba - Trần Hưng Đạo, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Nón Lá Huế Lệ Quân - Lô G20 KQH Hương Long, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Chợ An Cựu - Hùng Vương, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế

Historically, Royal Court Tea was reserved exclusively for the royal family to relax and rejuvenate. Today, however, anyone can enjoy this unique tea. Royal Court Tea is not only a refreshing beverage but also a herbal remedy that promotes health, making it suitable for a wide range of people.

Hue Royal Tea is made from a blend of various herbs, prepared through a meticulous process that is hard to replicate. The tea makers are true artisans, known for their sensitivity and refined craftsmanship. Brewing this tea is an art in itself, and only those with a deep understanding can truly appreciate the complex flavors. It is often said that only those with life experience can fully grasp the sweetness, bitterness, and astringency of the tea. This makes it an excellent gift for older generations, like parents or grandparents, as it symbolizes both respect and sophistication.

Moreover, there are various types of Royal Court Tea available, each with distinct benefits. Some are tailored for people with diabetes, others for improving skin health in women, and some enhance overall wellness or promote relaxation and better sleep. It’s a perfect gift to bring back for loved ones after a trip, as the name itself suggests its elegance and luxury.

Currently, several well-known producers in Hue craft Royal Court Tea, with Đức Phượng being a particularly popular brand with a strong reputation and large annual sales.

CONTACT INFORMATION:
Address: 24 Nguyễn Huệ, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
Phone: 023 4395 9595
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://tracungdinhhue.com.vn/

One health-related gift that not everyone is familiar with is Hue Tram Oil. This essential oil is derived from the leaves of the tea tree, which is regarded as a miraculous remedy and a unique gift from nature to the people of Hue.

Tram oil has numerous benefits, including keeping the body warm, repelling insects, and providing antibacterial properties that help prevent colds. It is especially effective for infants and expectant mothers. Not only is it highly beneficial, but it is also very gentle, safe for health, and free from side effects.

In today's market, many synthetic oils lack reliability and quality, but Tram Oil remains a preferred choice. Despite its warming properties, it doesn't cause any burning sensations, making it safe for the delicate skin of newborns without adverse reactions.

In Hue, there are several establishments producing high-quality Tram Oil, with the Cung Đình Vĩ Dạ brand being one of the most reputable. Visitors to Hue can easily purchase a few bottles of this oil for personal use or as thoughtful gifts for loved ones.

Some stores selling Hue Tram Oil you can visit include:

• Cung Đình Vỹ Dạ Tram Oil - 14 Thanh Tịnh, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Chợ Đông Ba - Trần Hưng Đạo, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Chợ An Cựu - Hùng Vương, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Hoa Nén Tram Oil - 7 Nguyễn Sinh Cung, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế

Since ancient times, the lotus has been widely cultivated in Hue, as the Nguyen emperors held a deep admiration for the flower and followed Buddhist teachings. Over time, the lotus became an iconic symbol in the region, influencing local culture and daily life. It appears not only in artistic works and poetry but also in the culinary heritage of the area.

Lotus seeds have thus become a renowned local delicacy. While other regions in Vietnam also grow lotus seeds, the quality of Hue's lotus seeds is unparalleled. The lotus plants cultivated in the ancient imperial city absorb the pure essence of the land, and through the skilled hands of Hue artisans, these seeds become sweet, aromatic, and rich in flavor, stimulating the senses.

Lotus seeds are widely recognized for their health benefits. They nourish the body, provide essential nutrients, and are particularly effective in calming the mind, making them ideal for those who suffer from insomnia or have trouble sleeping. In addition to their medicinal properties, lotus seeds are a cherished ingredient in the local cuisine, adding depth to various dishes.

In Hue, the seeds are often dried, peeled, and vacuum-sealed, making them an attractive and thoughtful gift. With their many health benefits, they are sure to be a well-received present for anyone lucky enough to receive them.

If you're looking for the best lotus seeds, Tịnh Tâm is a reputable brand to consider. You can also explore the following local shops in Hue:

• Tịnh Tâm Lotus Seed Shop - 300 Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Hue Lotus Seed Processing Facility - 168 Tăng Bạt Hổ, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Liên Hương Lotus Seed Shop - 80 Phan Đăng Lưu, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Chợ Đông Ba - Trần Hưng Đạo, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế

Hand embroidery is a time-honored craft that has been passed down for generations in Vietnam. With the deft hands of artisans, needles and threads are transformed into captivating works of art. However, the art of embroidery has been fading over time, with Hue being one of the few places where this unique tradition is still preserved.

The meticulous and careful nature of Hue's artisans is reflected in the perfectly even and beautiful stitches that characterize these hand-embroidered paintings. The colors are harmoniously blended with scenic landscapes, showcasing the dreamy spirit and poetic soul of the Hue artists. Together, these elements create distinctive masterpieces that are truly one-of-a-kind.

If you're looking to commemorate your trip to Hue with a meaningful gift, a hand-embroidered painting from a local artisan would be an excellent choice. Not only would it add elegance to any home, but it also serves as a tribute to the rich cultural heritage of Vietnam.

If you're buying as a gift for someone else, rest assured that they will be deeply impressed. Such a gift conveys sophistication, artistic sensitivity, and a genuine appreciation for beauty.

Recommended shops for hand-embroidered paintings in Hue:

• Traditional Hand-Embroidered Painting Shop Thái Hòa - 15 Mai Thúc Loan, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Thiên Nam Artistic Embroidery Shop - 72 Yết Kiêu, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Khánh Hà Hand-Embroidered Painting Shop - 50 Lê Lợi, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Vietnamese Cross-Stitch Embroidery - 36 Bến Nghé, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế

Hue, the ancient capital, is known for its unique culture and rare products that can't easily be found elsewhere. As a place chosen by kings for their residence, Hue carries the influence of royal customs. The meticulous approach to cooking is a perfect example of this influence. Among the many treasures nature has blessed Hue with, Thanh Tra Grapefruit stands out as one of the finest.

The history of Thanh Tra grapefruit in Hue goes back over 200 years, with rumors suggesting that it was once presented to the king as a royal tribute. Though you may not have tasted it yet, just knowing this fact makes it clear that the flavor must be extraordinary.

Today, this grapefruit variety is a specialty of Hue’s local gardens, rivaling any other in the country. The Thanh Tra Grapefruit is a delicate, golden yellow fruit, with a small stem and larger near the top. Its aroma is intoxicating, filling the air with its sweet fragrance. The white, juicy flesh has a refreshing, lightly sweet taste that’s sure to captivate anyone who tries it.

You can visit the orchards along the Ô Lâu, Bồ, and Hương rivers in Hue to both explore and purchase this exceptional fruit as a souvenir.

Places to visit and buy Thanh Tra Grapefruit in Hue:

• Thanh Tra Thủy Biều - 53 Thân Văn Nhiếp, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Thủy Biều Market - Ngô Hà, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Dong Ba Market - Trần Hưng Đạo, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế

The people of Hue have long been known for their hard work and resilience, and this is reflected in the many unique and cherished treats that visitors can take home as souvenirs. Among these, the renowned Hue Sesame Candy stands out as one of the most famous offerings from this region.

Hue Sesame Candy is so iconic that just mentioning it evokes the essence of Hue itself, a place where this delightful sweet treat was created. It has a chewy, elastic texture, with a fragrant sesame flavor blending harmoniously with the richness of peanuts and the chewy malt syrup, all balanced with just the right amount of sweetness. For many, it has become a symbol of the ancient capital and is beloved both locally and abroad.

Once you’ve tasted the authentic Hue Sesame Candy, it’s hard to enjoy any other version from elsewhere. Hue’s sesame candy is chewy without being tough, sticky yet not overly soft. Achieving the perfect texture requires careful precision in controlling the temperature and cooking time, so the malt syrup isn’t too firm or too soft. Though the process may seem simple, it’s an art that demands skill, experience, and a refined touch from the craftsmen.

The variety of sesame candies in Hue is vast, but the most notable and flavorful is from Thiên Hương, which uses traditional methods of production honed over time. The range includes crispy sesame candy, traditional chewy sesame candy, and improved chewy varieties. Thiên Hương's reputation for quality has earned it widespread acclaim, both domestically and internationally. Visitors to Hue always make sure to buy several packs of sesame candy to share with family and friends.

Places to buy Thiên Hương Sesame Candy in Hue:

• Thiên Hương Sesame Candy - 14 Nguyễn Huệ, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Thiên Hương Sesame Candy - 20 Chi Lăng, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Thiên Hương Sesame Candy - 7 Lê Huân, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế

Sour shrimp is both a condiment and a specialty dish that defines the culinary tradition of Hue. Even if you traveled the entire length of Vietnam, you wouldn't be able to find another dish quite like this. With simple ingredients, yet a highly refined and intricate preparation, this dish is a true work of art. Only the people of Hue seem to have the patience and skill to master the delicate balance of flavors that make this dish so unique.

Sour shrimp is a blend of sweet shrimp with the aromatic, spicy punch of several key ingredients such as sticky rice, bamboo shoots, galangal, garlic, and chili. The combination creates a complex taste that can't quite be described in words – sweet, sour, bitter, and spicy all at once. Anyone who has tasted it cannot help but be impressed.

This dish is often enjoyed with steamed rice. The most famous and delicious way to enjoy it is with boiled pork, rice paper, and fresh herbs. You take a thin rice paper, add lettuce, starfruit, bean sprouts, basil leaves, a piece of boiled pork, and a shrimp, then roll it up, dip it into fish sauce, and savor the wonderful combination of flavors. The sweetness of the pork, the sourness of the starfruit, and the aromatic fragrance of the basil make it an unforgettable taste experience.

Sour shrimp from Hue reflects the distinctive culinary style of the region. The shrimp used is freshwater shrimp, either from rivers or ponds, not too small or too large, so that when pickled, they have a uniform color. You can find authentic sour shrimp at Dong Ba Market or at trusted local stores recommended by Mytour.

Places to buy sour shrimp in Hue:

• Trọng Tín Sour Shrimp - 21 Đặng Trần Côn, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Hue Imperial Sour Shrimp - 130 Bùi Thị Xuân, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Ba Duệ Sour Shrimp - 27 Cao Bá Quát, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Cô Ri Sour Shrimp - 184 Tăng Bạt Hổ, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế

While the Ao Dai is a traditional Vietnamese garment, it is impossible to mention Ao Dai without also mentioning the ancient city of Hue. This region is renowned for its graceful young women wearing the Ao Dai along the romantic Perfume River, a sight that has captivated countless hearts and inspired many poets and artists.

"Her Ao Dai flows like the Perfume River,

With the scent of lotus from Tinh Lake, along the Kim Long Road."

(From the poem *Là tà áo em* by Nguyệt Đình).

The Ao Dai has been immortalized in poetry, admired for its elegance and beauty. While the garment’s charm is undeniably enhanced by the wearer, one cannot overlook the skill of the artisans who meticulously sew each piece. The Ao Dai, though seemingly simple, is incredibly difficult to make; it requires a skilled and patient tailor to craft a soft and graceful piece.

Hue is not only famous for its delicious cuisine and treasured gifts, but also for the exquisite hand-sewn Ao Dai. Visitors, especially women, often leave with a beautiful Ao Dai as a souvenir for special occasions. And if you are looking to gift something truly unique, a Hue Ao Dai would certainly be a great choice.

If you find yourself short on time to have an Ao Dai made, you can also purchase fabric to have one tailored later. Most fabric in Hue is natural silk, cool, skin-friendly, and incredibly soft. Prices are reasonable, and the people of Hue are known for their honesty, so you can safely visit any tailoring shop or fabric store without worrying about overpaying. However, for the best options, check out these recommended places.

Recommended shops for beautiful Ao Dai in Hue:

• Ao Dai Xứ Huế - 217 Chi Lăng, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Thảo Trang Ao Dai Tailor - 1 Quốc Sử Quán, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Bích Thuỷ Ao Dai - 31 Hai Bà Trưng, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Phúc Ao Dai - 93 Thạch Hãn, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Hồng Ân Ao Dai - 18/4 Kiet 16 Đoàn Hữu Trưng, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế
• Nhung Cao Ao Dai - 215 Phan Đăng Lưu, Hue City, Thừa Thiên Huế