Hue Imperial City is not only a historical destination but also an endless source of inspiration for culture and history enthusiasts. When visiting Hue Imperial City, you will explore an architectural space filled with palaces, temples, pavilions, shrines, and gardens, each leaving a strong impression of the former Nguyen Dynasty. For a more complete experience when setting foot in Hue, refer to the travel guide below for ticket prices to Hue Imperial City and an itinerary for a meaningful and enjoyable trip.
Where is Imperial City of Hue?
- Address: 23/8 Street, Thuan Hoa Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province.
- Opening hours:
- Summer: 6:30 AM – 5:30 PM
- Winter: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Hue Imperial City is located along the banks of the Perfume River, right in the heart of Hue City, making it easy for visitors to reach by various means of transportation such as bicycles, motorbikes, cyclos, electric cars, or taxis. If you are traveling by motorbike or private car, you can start from Hue city center and follow the southern bank of the Perfume River. After crossing Phu Xuan Bridge, continue along Le Duan Street and turn right onto Cua Quang Duc Street. Then, cross the bridge and proceed until you reach 23/8 Street, where you turn right to arrive at Hue Imperial City.
Entrance fees for visiting the Imperial City of Hue
The ticket prices for both international and Vietnamese visitors are as follows:
| Attraction | Ticket Price for the Imperial City of Hue & Tour Route (VND/person/visit) |
|---|---|
| Adults | |
| Imperial City of Hue | 200,000 VND |
| Imperial City of Hue – Khai Dinh Tomb – Minh Mang Tomb | 420,000 VND |
| Imperial City of Hue – Tu Duc Tomb – Minh Mang Tomb | 420,000 VND |
| Imperial City of Hue – Khai Dinh Tomb – Tu Duc Tomb | 420,000 VND |
You can check out more entrance fees for Hue attractions through the article: Entrance Fees for Hue Attractions 2024.
Transportation to Hue Imperial City
There are many ways to reach Hue Imperial City, depending on your travel budget and health. You can choose the transportation method that suits you best.
Traveling to Hue City
For international tourists: If you fly directly into Phu Bai International Airport in Hue, visiting Hue Imperial City is quite convenient. However, most international tourists fly into Da Nang International Airport and seek a day trip from Da Nang to explore Hue Imperial City.
To cater to this need, DanangPrivateCar.com offers a day trip service from Da Nang to Hue, allowing you to explore Hue Imperial City and other tourist attractions in Hue easily. You can also book a one-way private car trip from Da Nang to Hue.
For domestic tourists
You can use the following means of transportation:
- Airplane: To save time and enjoy a relaxing journey, traveling by plane is recommended. Many domestic airlines offer flights from major cities like Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Phu Bai Airport in Hue. After arriving at Phu Bai, you can choose between two transportation options to get to Hue City: an airport shuttle (fare: 40,000 VND – 50,000 VND per person per trip) or a private taxi (fare: 250,000 VND – 350,000 VND per trip).
- Train: If you’re looking to save on costs, you can take a train from other provinces to Hue. Ticket prices range from 400,000 VND – 900,000 VND for a seat, and can be higher if you opt for SE3 or SE1 trains with sleeper cabins and air conditioning.
- Bus: You can also take a long-distance bus from Hanoi (fare: 400,000 VND – 500,000 VND per ticket), Ho Chi Minh City (600,000 VND – 1,250,000 VND per ticket), or Da Nang (135,000 VND – 150,000 VND per ticket). However, the travel time is significantly longer.
Traveling to Hue Imperial City
Hue Imperial City is located in the heart of Hue City, making it easy and convenient to reach. If you want to enjoy the scenic beauty of dreamy Hue while traveling, consider renting a bicycle, motorbike, or cyclo. However, if you’re traveling with young children or the elderly, taking a taxi or using DanangPrivateCar.com’s private car service in Hue is the most suitable option for you.
History of the Hue Imperial Citadel
The Hue Imperial Citadel is the second defensive structure within the Hue Capital, consisting of the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City. Situated along the poetic Perfume River, it served as the working, ruling, and living quarters for the emperor and the royal family, with hundreds of remarkable architectural structures built within its walls.
In 1803, when Emperor Gia Long ascended the throne, he chose Hue as the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty. After 30 years of construction and effort, the entire new capital complex was completed, blending seamlessly with the natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. In 1993, the Hue Imperial Citadel became part of the Complex of Hue Monuments, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Hue Imperial Citadel is divided into two main areas: the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City, each featuring many distinctive architectural structures.
The Imperial City includes notable landmarks such as the Ngo Mon Gate and Thai Hoa Palace, while the Forbidden Purple City was a private area for the emperor and the royal family, featuring buildings like the Great Palace Gate, Left and Right Mandarins’ Halls, Can Chanh Palace, Thai Binh Pavilion, and Dien Tho Palace.
The Hue Imperial Citadel has been preserved with its unique and grand architectural features, showcasing the craftsmanship of Vietnam’s artisans from the past. Visiting the citadel, travelers can gain deeper insights into a turbulent period in the nation’s history and explore the mysteries of the ancient royal court.
Tourist Attractions in Hue Imperial City
The Hue Imperial City is not only a symbol of the Nguyen feudal dynasty but also a treasure of unique culture and architecture. When visiting the Hue Imperial City, you will explore a magnificent architectural complex that once served as the political, cultural, and religious center of the Nguyen dynasty.
Exploring the Imperial City of Hue
Ngo Mon Gate
Ngo Mon Gate is one of the four main gates of the Hue Imperial City, considered an iconic symbol of the Hue Citadel. The gate was built with grand, monumental, and intricate architecture, featuring detailed and elaborate carvings. The U-shaped gate consists of five entrances, and the upper roof structure was meticulously crafted from ironwood, creating a cool and serene atmosphere with surrounding ponds.
Ngo Mon Gate is not just an entrance, but also the face of the Hue Imperial Palace. It was designed with multiple layers, surrounded by a moat system. The gate is divided into two parts: the platform gate and the Ngu Phung Pavilion. The platform gate is nearly 5 meters tall and includes five gates, with the central one reserved for the king, the two adjacent gates for officials, and the two outermost gates for soldiers and elephants. Meanwhile, the Ngu Phung Pavilion is a two-story building with a gently curved roof, covered with glazed tiles and intricately decorated with phoenix motifs.
Ngo Mon Gate faces southward toward the Imperial City, offering a view of the poetic Perfume River. Over more than two centuries, Ngo Mon Gate has become an outstanding masterpiece of ancient architecture and a witness to many significant historical milestones.
Thai Hoa Palace
If you want to explore beautiful sightseeing spots and photography locations within the Hue Imperial City, Thai Hoa Palace is a must-visit destination.
Thai Hoa Palace is one of the symbols of the power of the Nguyen Dynasty, the most important structure within the Imperial City. It was the venue for important court ceremonies of the Nguyen Dynasty. Notably, the palace was constructed from ironwood and is adorned with intricate dragon and phoenix motifs on the roof and columns. Inside the palace, the king’s throne is placed in a prominent position, symbolizing supreme power.
Exploring the Forbidden Purple City
The Forbidden Purple City is one of the most fascinating areas to explore within the Hue Imperial City. This was where the Nguyen Dynasty’s kings and royal family resided. Can Chanh Palace was used by the king for hosting important banquets, while Can Thanh Palace served as the king’s resting and relaxation space.
However, the most noteworthy attraction in the Forbidden Purple City is Thai Binh Pavilion – an ideal relaxation spot with a serene, green, and ancient atmosphere. Covered in moss on its gate, the pavilion provides a unique and captivating backdrop for photography, while still preserving the grandeur and tranquility of its contemporary architecture.
Dai Cung Mon
Dai Cung Mon is the main gate leading into the Forbidden Purple City, located on the southern side. It was built in 1833 during the reign of King Minh Mang. The structure consists of five compartments and three gates, constructed entirely from ironwood with delicately curved roofs and intricate decorations. The central gate was reserved exclusively for the king, while two corridors on either side connected to Ta Vu and Huu Vu. Dai Cung Mon overlooks the front courtyard and faces Thai Hoa Palace.
Currently, Dai Cung Mon has been destroyed during the war and is undergoing research by the Hue Monuments Conservation Center for restoration.
Ta Vu and Huu Vu
Ta Vu and Huu Vu are two buildings constructed in the early 19th century, located directly opposite Can Chanh Palace. Ta Vu was used by civil mandarins, while Huu Vu was reserved for military officials. These buildings were used for preparations before court sessions and for hosting royal examinations or banquets.
These are among the few structures that survived the war. Today, Ta Vu is used to display valuable ancient artifacts, while Huu Vu has become a popular sightseeing and photography spot.
Dien Tho Palace
Dien Tho Palace is one of the largest remaining palaces in the Hue Citadel, built to serve the Queen Mothers and Grand Empress Dowagers of the Nguyen Dynasty. Located in the northwest of the Forbidden Purple City, it consists of about 20 architectural structures of various shapes and sizes.
Visitors can enjoy the stunning scenery, including lotus ponds, fish ponds, and relaxation areas. Dien Tho Palace also contains ancient artifacts and an outdoor garden for leisure. It is considered one of the largest and most historically significant palace complexes in Hue.
Can Chanh Palace in the Imperial City of Hue
When looking directly along the north-south axis from Thai Hoa Palace, visitors can easily spot Can Chanh Palace, an impressive and magnificent structure within the Imperial City, built for royal ceremonies. Can Chanh Palace is regarded as the largest and most beautiful wooden structure in the Forbidden Purple City, with ironwood details skillfully carved by village artisans into soft, elegant dragon and phoenix motifs.
Thai Binh Pavilion
Thai Binh Pavilion, a notable structure within the Imperial City of Hue, was built during the reign of King Khai Dinh for the king to relax, read books, and enjoy the scenery in the royal grounds. The pavilion consists of two floors, constructed from brick and ironwood, with a gracefully curved roof, covered in glazed tiles, and decorated with the motif of two dragons flanking a moon. Thai Binh Pavilion was started in 1919 and completed in 1921.
Kien Trung Palace
After more than 70 years as a ruin, in 2024, Kien Trung Palace, one of the five major architectural structures along the sacred axis of the Forbidden Purple City (Hue), and the residence and workplace of the last two emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty, has been fully restored to its former grandeur and magnificence. This restoration allows the palace to continue telling fascinating stories about the inner workings of the Nguyen royal court and significant events in Vietnamese history.
Amazing Experiences You Can’t Miss at the Imperial City
Explore and Capture Stunning Photos of Royal Tombs
The Imperial City of Hue offers visitors not only a majestic and ancient atmosphere but also a place that preserves the beauty and history of the Nguyen Dynasty. You can visit and explore famous structures such as the royal tombs, the palaces of kings and royals, as well as various temples and shrines.
Here, you can also rent royal costumes at the Huu Vu House for a unique experience and memorable photos. Through these architectural works, visitors can gain a deeper understanding of the beauty and aesthetics of the past while reflecting on Vietnamese history and culture.
Take a Cyclo Ride Around the Imperial City
When visiting Hue, taking a cyclo ride to explore the Imperial City is an experience you shouldn’t miss. This is the perfect option for those who don’t want to walk through the vast space of the Imperial City. Renting a cyclo helps save time and allows you to discover more of the architectural beauty within the Imperial City.
The cyclo rental prices are very reasonable, ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 VND for a round trip around the Imperial City. Using a cyclo ensures you won’t get lost and allows for a comfortable, leisurely exploration. Moreover, using cyclos also helps contribute to environmental protection.
Admire the Glimmering Imperial City at Night
Nighttime is the ideal time to explore the beauty of the Imperial City of Hue, as the glowing lights illuminate its breathtaking scenery. Among these, the Flag Tower in front of the Imperial Gate is a special attraction, drawing in locals and tourists alike to enjoy a cool evening surrounded by the ancient relics that evoke memories of Hue.
The Imperial City becomes radiant at night, creating a sparkling and majestic atmosphere. Visitors can participate in the “Imperial City by Night” program to witness traditional ceremonies such as the Changing of the Guards and performances of classical music. Guests can also enjoy traditional court dances and Nha Nhac (royal music), as well as participate in other folk activities, making for an unforgettable nighttime experience.
Relax with Tea and Flower Viewing at Dien Tho Palace
Dien Tho Palace is an appealing destination in the Imperial City where visitors can enjoy fragrant Hue royal tea in a tranquil garden while admiring the natural beauty around them. This is a memorable experience that provides a moment of relaxation, offering a respite from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Immerse Yourself in Festive Celebrations at the Imperial City
The Imperial City is the venue for many exciting activities during the Hue Festival, offering visitors unique cultural and historical experiences through performances such as the Opening Ceremony, the Ban Soc Ritual, Royal Banquets, and Imperial Court Festivals. This is a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant atmosphere, enjoy entertainment activities, and learn more about the ancient capital of Hue.
If you visit during April or June, you will have the chance to partake in the Hue Festival, a large-scale event featuring a variety of cultural, artistic, and culinary activities, recreating the grandeur of royal life in the past.
Enjoy Royal Court Music Performances at Duyet Thi Duong Theater
One of the most remarkable experiences at the Imperial City is the chance to witness the Royal Court Music. At Duyet Thi Duong Theater, you can enjoy a mystical, ancient atmosphere and spectacular, intricately staged performances that last about 35 minutes.
This show will captivate you with its unique artistic qualities and the majestic court architecture. Allow yourself to be immersed in the ancient world of the royal court and enjoy a truly wonderful experience at the Imperial City of Hue.
Hue tourist map – mausoleums
Map of the Hue Imperial City
The Map of the Hue Imperial City is becoming a useful tool for visitors to the ancient city of Hue. With detailed and intricate design, the map helps tourists easily locate important historical and cultural sites such as palaces, temples, shrines, and other monuments. More than just a navigation tool, the Hue Imperial City map allows visitors to uncover fascinating insights into Vietnamese history and culture.
How many gates does Hue Citadel have?
Hue Citadel has 13 gates in all. In which, 10 city gates will open to the outside, 1 inner city gate, 2 waterway gates.
|
Southeast Gate (Thuong Tu Gate) |
The gate of the citadel is located on the east corner of the Southeast Kinh Thanh. The arch was built in 1809, the gazebo was built in 1829. The Nguyen court established the Thuong Tu Institute to take care of the king’s horses here where the city gate is called Thuong Tu Gate. |
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The Nhon Door (Present Door) |
The gate of the citadel is located in the south, to the left of Ky Dai of the Citadel. The arch was built in 1809, the gazebo was built in 1829. The first name was The Nguyen, then King Minh Mang changed it to The Nhon. Folk called the Gate because people were stopped here when the king or concubine went to Phu Van Lau or Luong Ta’s house to cool off and bathe in the river. The door placed 4 cannons called Ta Dai General. |
|
Quang Duc Gate (Sap Gate) |
The gate is located on the south side of the citadel. The name is named after Quang Duc palace. The arch of the city gate was built in 1809, the gazebo was built in 1829. During the flood in 1953, both the arch and the gazebo collapsed completely, so the people called it Sap Gate. The door was restored in 1988 after being heavily damaged by the war in 1968. The door placed 5 cannons called Huu Dai General. |
|
Chanh Nam Gate (Door House) |
The gate is also located on the south side of the citadel. People often call it Nha Do door because outside the door there is Thuong Ty (Do Gia) department, which translates to Nha Do. The arch was built in 1809, the gazebo was built in 1829. The door collapsed in 1953 due to flood, only to be restored later. |
|
Southwest Gate (Huu Gate) |
The gate is located in the southwest of the citadel. The arch was built in 1809, the hope was built in 1829. In 1885, King Ham Nghi went to the war zone outside Quang Tri from this door. During the war, the gate was broken down and was later rebuilt. |
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Main West Gate |
The gate is located in the west of the citadel, on Thai Phien Street. The arch was built in 1809, the gazebo was built in 1829. This was the place of fierce fighting during the war in 1968, so it was heavily damaged. Later, the door was restored. |
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Northwest Gate (An Hoa Gate) |
The gate is located in the northwest corner of the citadel connecting Tang Bat Ho and Nguyen Trai streets. The arch was built in 1809, the gazebo was built in 1831. Folk people call it An Hoa gate because in front of the citadel is the village and An Hoa market. |
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North Gate (Back door) |
The gate is located at the back of the citadel, so it is called the Hau gate. The arch was built in 1809, the gazebo was built in 1831. After the war, the door was heavily damaged and was closed for 120 years. In 2004 the door was opened after repair work. |
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Northeast Gate (Ke Trai Gate) |
The gate is located in the northeast corner of the citadel, located on the banks of the Dong Ba River. The arch was built in 1809, the gazebo was built in 1824 and is one of the two earliest gazebos built. Indigenous people call it Ke Trai gate because there used to be a Ke Trai village in front of the city gate. |
|
Chanh Dong Gate (Dong Ba Gate) |
The gate is on the east side. People also call it Dong Ba gate because there is Dong Hoa fortress from Gia Long period. The arch was built in 1809, the gazebo was built in 1824. In 1885, the war between the French and the Imperial army led by Ton That Thuyet took place fiercely here. The gate collapsed on the gazebo and damaged the arch after the war in 1968. |
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Binh Mon Town |
This door does not open to the outside but leads to Tran Binh fortress – the defensive fortress of the citadel, connecting the two fortresses of Dong Binh and Bac Dinh together. |
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Western city water gate |
The estuary leading from the Ke Van River to the Ngu Ha River takes on the task of draining the inner city, is the waterway for boats to carry goods to trade. The gate was built in 1826 under the reign of King Minh Mang. |
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Dong Thanh Thuy Quan |
This is the gate leading water from Ngu Ha to Dong Ba River. The gate was built in 1830 under the reign of King Minh Mang. |
Travel Experiences at the Imperial City of Hue
The Ideal Time to Visit the Imperial City of Hue
The time of your visit to the Imperial City of Hue will offer different experiences depending on the season and weather. Spring, from January to March, with its cool and fresh air, is considered the ideal time to explore the Imperial City. Additionally, from April to June, festival season is a perfect opportunity to participate in special events and enjoy unique cultural experiences.
If you plan to visit the Imperial City of Hue, it is recommended to go in the morning or early afternoon to have enough time to explore and enjoy the cooler atmosphere. Avoid arriving late, as the complex closes around 5 PM. Even if you purchase a full ticket, arriving late will limit your ability to fully explore the various corners or tombs within the Imperial City.
Other Important Notes
To make your visit to the Imperial City of Hue complete and memorable, here are some key points to keep in mind:
- Prepare a map and study the tour route carefully to avoid getting lost and wasting time.
- Dress modestly and comfortably for ease of movement within the large complex and avoid inappropriate behavior.
- Follow the visitor rules, refrain from touching artifacts, breaking branches, picking flowers, and avoid making noise or playing around in this sacred place.
- Purchase tickets properly, each person should buy their own ticket and keep it handy for quick ticket checks.
- Maintain cleanliness by not littering. There are many trash bins along the pathways inside the Imperial City, so please use them to keep the area clean.
- No filming or photography is allowed inside the interiors, and do not touch the artifacts.
- For group tours, if you require a guided service, it is recommended to contact the site’s management in advance.
Conclusion
With its grand architectural system and beautiful landscapes, the Imperial City of Hue is regarded as one of the most attractive destinations in the ancient capital of Hue. When visiting, you’ll embark on a fantastic journey that helps you better understand the architecture and royal life of ancient Vietnam, while participating in many special activities. With the self-guided travel experiences shared above, DanangPrivateCar.com hopes you will have an enjoyable and fulfilling trip filled with unforgettable memories.