The Imperial City of Hue

The Imperial City of Hue (Kinh Thành Huế), a masterpiece of Nguyen Dynasty architecture, spans an area of approximately 520 hectares, encapsulating a fortified palace complex that served as the administrative and ceremonial center of the dynasty. It includes intricate palaces, grand halls, and royal courtyards detailed in traditional Vietnamese architectural styles with significant French and Chinese influences.

Main Attractions in the Imperial City of Hue

1. The Imperial Enclosure (Đại Nội – 大內):
   • The Ngo Mon Gate (Cửa Ngọ Môn – 吳門門): The principal southern entrance which exhibits an impressive architectural design featuring three-tiered roofs and intricate woodwork.
   • Thai Hoa Palace (Điện Thái Hòa – 太和殿): Known for its magnificent lacquered and gilded throne room, the palace is a prime example of royal Vietnamese architecture.
   • The Forbidden Purple City (Tử Cấm Thành – 紫禁城): Once the most sacred part of the Imperial City, it’s slowly being restored to its former glory.
2. Newly Restored Structures:
   • Kien Trung Palace (Điện Kiến Trung – 建中殿): Recently restored, this hall served as a private area for the emperor. It showcases ornate wooden carvings and traditional Vietnamese decor.
3. Hue Royal Antiquities Museum (Bảo tàng Cổ vật Huế):
   • Located within the Long An Palace, the museum exhibits a vast collection of artifacts from the Nguyen Dynasty, including imperial robes, ceramics, and ancient manuscripts, allowing a deeper understanding of the period’s craftsmanship and daily royal life.
4. Royal Tombs:
   • Tomb of Tu Duc (Lăng Tự Đức – 謚德陵): Set over 12 hectares, this tomb complex features a serene lake and numerous temples and pavilions, each detailed with poetic inscriptions and stately architecture.
   • Tomb of Khai Dinh (Lăng Khải Định – 啓定陵): Combines traditional Vietnamese design with modern elements like concrete and wrought iron, covering a much smaller area of about 1.2 hectares.
   • Tomb of Minh Mang (Lăng Minh Mạng – 明命陵): This tomb is celebrated for its perfect symmetry and expansive gardens, spreading over 18 hectares.

Ticket Information

As of the latest update, Hue offers several ticketing options for its historical sites:

• Combo Ticket: Provides access to the Imperial Enclosure, all royal tombs, and the Antiquities Museum. The cost is around 530,000 VND for adults.
• Individual Tickets:
  • Imperial Enclosure: 200,000 VND for adults.
  • Each Royal Tomb: Ranges from 100,000 to 150,000 VND, depending on the tomb.

Suggested Itinerary

Day 1: Imperial City and Museum

• Morning: Tour the Imperial Enclosure, focusing on the Ngo Mon Gate and Thai Hoa Palace.
• Afternoon: Visit Dien Kien Trung and the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum.
• Evening: Experience Hue’s culinary offerings.

Day 2: Royal Tombs

• Morning: Start at the expansive Tomb of Minh Mang.
• Afternoon: Proceed to the Tomb of Tu Duc and conclude with the unique Tomb of Khai Dinh.

Visiting Tips

• Weather Considerations: Plan early morning or late afternoon visits to avoid the midday heat.
• Cultural Sensitivity: Dress modestly and respect the solemnity of these historic sites.
• Transportation: Renting a scooter or bicycle can be a convenient way to navigate between these spread-out attractions.