Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue – Detailed Exploration Guide 2024

Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue is well-known to both the residents of the ancient capital and tourists due to its impressive architecture, rich with Thai influences. Keep the following detailed travel information handy to ensure you have a fulfilling trip!

Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue is an ancient temple of the Theravada Buddhism sect, distinguished by its unique Thai architecture. Recently, this pagoda has become one of the most famous tourist attractions in Hue, drawing a large number of visitors for sightseeing and worship.

An Overview of Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue

Where is Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue Located?

  • Address: Located on Quang Te Hill, Thuy Xuan Ward, Hue City, 4km from the Imperial City of Hue.
  • Opening hours: 5:30 AM – 7:00 PM daily.
  • Entrance fee: Free of charge.

Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue is located quite close to the city center and is known by the familiar names “Standing Buddha Pagoda,” “Reclining Buddha Pagoda,” or simply “Thien Lam Pagoda.” It is situated on Quang Te Hill, Thuy Xuan Ward, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province. Additionally, many visitors refer to this place with poetic names like “Thailand in Hue” or “Golden Pagoda in the heart of the ancient capital” to describe the unique architecture of the pagoda.

The Land of the Golden Pagoda in the Heart of the Ancient Capital

 

Directions to Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue

Thien Lam Pagoda is about 5km from the city center, making it quite easy to reach. Simply go straight along Hung Vuong Street, then turn onto Nguyen Hue Street. At the end of the street, turn left and continue straight along Dien Bien Phu Street. Finally, turn right onto Thanh Hai Street and continue straight until you see the Standing Buddha statue. At this point, turn left to arrive at Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue. If you’re unsure about the route, you can refer to the map below!

Directions to Thien Lam Pagoda

In addition, to facilitate your visit to Thien Lam Pagoda or many other famous tourist destinations in Hue, you can use the private car rental service with a driver in Hue provided by DanangPrivateCar.com. With local drivers who have many years of experience in transporting international passengers, you will have the safest and most comfortable journey. Book a tour to explore the city of Hue today to have the best experiences possible.

History of Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue

The ancient capital is renowned for its historic pagodas such as Truc Lam Thien Vien Hue, Thien Mu Pagoda, Tu Lam Pagoda, and Giac Lam Pagoda. Each pagoda bears the marks of history, and Thien Lam Pagoda is no exception. Previously, the pagoda was merely a small hut, or in other words, “a small thatched hut among the graves,” and served as a place where Venerable Hoa Thuong Ho Nhan practiced meditation daily.

Thien Lam Pagoda was constructed in 1966

In 1966, local residents and Buddhists from various places contributed to the construction of the pagoda. During the tenure of Venerable Hoa Thuong Ho Nhan as the abbot, Thien Lam Pagoda underwent multiple renovations and gradually became more complete. Over time, Thien Lam Pagoda has evolved not only into a place of meditation but also into one of the foremost spiritual tourism destinations in Hue.

Impressions in the Architecture of Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue

Thien Lam Pagoda is the only ancient temple following the Theravada Buddhism sect. Therefore, the pagoda is constructed with a unique architecture similar to Thai temples. The main gate, dominated by yellow color, is adorned with intricate details. However, the interior space of the pagoda and its architectural structures still somewhat reflect the essence of meditation.

Outer Courtyard of Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue

The first striking point upon arrival at the pagoda is the two Buddha statues in two postures: Standing and Reclining, prominently situated on the peak of Quang Te Hill. The Standing Buddha statue exudes majesty, while the Reclining Buddha statue with its graceful posture seems to make visitors forget all weariness and daily worries.

The Reclining Buddha statue at Thien Lam Pagoda

Next is the entrance to the pagoda courtyard with layered steps painted in yellow. This is an ideal backdrop favored by many young people, allowing them to capture photos with a distinct Thai ambiance without needing to book a flight.

The entrance area serves as an impressive photo backdrop

On the left side of the courtyard is the statue of Buddha Shakyamuni meditating under the protection of the Naga King and the Buddha. On the right side is the beautiful Nguyet Uyen Garden (Deer Garden) with Queen Ma Gia and her attendants. Additionally, the scene of the master-disciple relationship of Buddhist monks on their alms round is vividly recreated in the pagoda’s garden.

Inner Courtyard of Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue

Upon entering the inner courtyard of the pagoda, you will see many Buddha statues depicting the history of Shakyamuni Buddha. However, the highlight of this area is the 1.6-meter-tall statue of Shakyamuni Buddha meditating on a 2-meter-high lotus throne.

Scattered around the pagoda are statues of Shakyamuni Buddha

On the left side is the wax statue of Venerable Hoa Thuong Ho Nhan, crafted to lifelike perfection by skilled artisans. Additionally, the pagoda is notable for its very large bronze bell, weighing up to 700kg.

Mien Dien Tower

As you delve deeper into Thien Lam Pagoda, visitors will have the opportunity to admire many Buddha statues, especially the magnificent Mien Dien Tower. The tower stands 15 meters tall and is modeled after the Sirimagala Pagoda of Myanmar. Its lower part features a circular layout, while the upper part resembles a bell with a pointed top. Surrounding the tower are four lion statues facing the four cardinal directions: East, West, South, and North.

The Mien Dien Tower has a height of 15 meters

The Mien Dien Tower is divided into two parts. The lower part is the main hall with a serene and solemn space, adorned with paintings depicting the life of Shakyamuni Buddha from his renunciation to his attainment of nirvana. Behind the main hall are the guest room and meditation hall. The upper part of the tower is dedicated to worshiping Shakyamuni Buddha and the holy monks.

Things to Note When Visiting Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue

  • Thien Lam Pagoda is a spiritual tourism destination, so you should choose attire that is modest and respectful, in accordance with local customs.
  • Always walk lightly, speak softly, and maintain general order when visiting the pagoda.
  • Do not play around, break branches, or pick flowers in the pagoda.
  • If you wish to make offerings, you can pray and place them in the donation box inside the main hall.
  • If you are fortunate, you may have the opportunity to engage in conversation, participate in tea meditation, and listen to teachings from the monks.
  • Thien Lam Pagoda also has guest accommodations where you can rest upon arrival or after completing your visit.

If you are already familiar with images of tombs and temples, why not take a step into Thien Lam Pagoda in Hue to experience a different side of Hue? You will surely have many memorable experiences and capture many beautiful photos!

16-seat Tourist Car Rental Service in Hue

16-seat car rental service in Hue by DanangPrivateCar.com is the top choice for many domestic and international customers. As a leading transportation company in Hue, it invests in various types of 16-seat cars from many famous brands such as Mercedes, Toyota, Honda, Kia,… DanangPrivateCar.com aims to provide customers with safe trips that save time and money.

Affordable, Reliable, and Professional 16-seat Car Rental Service in Hue

With a team of experienced 16-seat car drivers who understand the routes well, professionally trained and screened through real-life experiences, and a fleet of 16-seat cars that are regularly inspected, upgraded, cleaned, and maintained, DanangPrivateCar.com confidently provides customers in need of 16-seat car rentals with the best services.

The 16-seat car service from DanangPrivateCar.com for picking up passengers from the port and bringing them to Hue

DanangPrivateCar.com specializes in providing professional, reliable, and high-quality 16-seat car rental services. We cater to various needs for renting 16-seat cars for travel, business trips, pilgrimages, tours, and more for customers in Hue and the central provinces of Vietnam. With an extensive network and high-quality new 16-seat cars serving tourists, we always satisfy our customers when they choose DanangPrivateCar.com’s 16-seat car rental service.

Why Should You Rent a Car for Travel or Business Trips?

Renting a car not only provides you with comfort during your travels but also gives you control over your entire journey. You can rest, enjoy the scenery, or visit interesting places along the way without worrying about the car picking up passengers en route. This is a major concern for many who experience motion sickness, as each stop to pick up passengers can make them feel more fatigued. Moreover, traveling by bus can be crowded and hot, which is a drawback of bus travel.

Therefore, if you need to go on a business trip, travel, or handle important matters, don’t forget the 16-seat car rental service in Hue. Of course, if you have many people traveling with you, then you should rent a 16-seat car. For smaller families, you can rent a 4-seat, 7-seat, or 9-seat car instead.

What Are the Benefits of Renting a 16-Seat Tourist Car?

Instead of choosing other means of transportation like motorbikes or buses for excursions, travel, or business trips, the current trend is to rent an affordable car for nearby travel. Renting a tourist car with 4, 7, 16, 29, or 45 seats offers many benefits, such as:

  • Spacious and comfortable seating: Especially with high-end, clean interiors that provide a pleasant experience for passengers.
  • Modern vehicles: Most rental cars are new models with premium leather seats. They are well-maintained at dealerships, ensuring safety for customers throughout the journey.
  • Cost-effective: The rental price offers many benefits for customers.
  • Professional drivers: The drivers are well-trained, always cheerful, and friendly with customers.
Professional and reputable 16-seat tourist car rental service in Hue

Notes When Renting a 16-Seat Car

  • Review the Contract Carefully: Ensure that the terms match the rental price list you previously reviewed before signing and receiving the car.
  • Inspect the Vehicle: Check the car thoroughly before accepting it. If there are any issues, request a different vehicle or immediate repairs.
  • Consider Hiring a Driver: Instead of driving yourself, you can hire a driver. This helps alleviate worries and stress during the trip.
  • Check the Rental Price: Confirm that the rental price is reasonable and inquire about any potential additional charges.
  • Agree on the Price: Ensure that the price is as stated in the 16-seat car rental price list in Hue, and clarify any extra costs before accepting the car. For example, are there penalties for late returns? Is a deposit required before renting? Can you rent the car for self-driving?
  • Choose a Reputable Rental Company: To ensure the best quality vehicle, rent from reputable companies. This helps avoid low-quality rentals that could pose dangers and lack safety for you and your loved ones.

Price List for 16-Seat Car Rental Service in Hue

Below is the price list for renting a 16-seat car in Hue for some routes.

Route Time 16-Seat Car (VND)
City Hue (3 points, add 100k for Minh Mang Tomb) 1/2 day 1000
City Hue (4 points) 1 day 1300
City Hue (5 points) 1 day 1500
Pickup/Drop-off from Hue Station to Hue city center 1 way 300
Pickup/Drop-off from Phu Bai Airport to Hue city center 1 way 500
Hue – Kawara My An Onsen Resort 1 way 350
Hue – Thanh Tan 1 way 1000
Hue – Thanh Tan – Hue 1 day 1300
Hue Airport – Thanh Tan 1 way 1300
Hue – Bach Ma Village 1 way 1100
Hue – Bach Ma Village – Hue 1 day 1600
Hue/Hue Airport – Lang Co (1 way) 1 way 1200
Hue – Thanh Toan Tile-Roofed Bridge – Lang Co – Hue 1 day 1800
Hue – Thuan An – Hue 1/2 day 800
Hue/Hue Airport – Vedana Lagoon 1 way 1000
Hue – Laguna 1 way 1200
Hue – Laguna – Hue 1 day 1800
Hue – HueYes Eco Thac Mo Nam Dong (1 way) 1 way 1100
Hue – HueYes Eco Thac Mo Nam Dong – Hue 1 day 1600
Hue – Da Nang (without Hai Van Pass) 1 way 1900
Hue – Da Nang (via Hai Van Pass) 1 way 2200
Hue – Da Nang – Hue (no sightseeing) 1 day 2500
Hue – Ba Na – Hue 1 day 2800
Hue – Hoi An 1 way 2400
Hue – Hoi An – Hue (no sightseeing) 1 day 3000
Hue – Vinpearl Nam Hoi An 1 way 2800
Hue – Vinpearl Nam Hoi An – Hue 1 day 3400
Hue – La Vang 1 way 1300
Hue – La Vang – Hue 1 day 1600
Hue Airport – La Vang 1 way 1200
Hue Airport – La Vang – Hue 1 day 1900
Hue – Dong Ha 1 way 1300
Hue Airport – Dong Ha 1 way 1600
Hue – Dong Ha – Hue 1 day 1900
Hue – Dong Hoi – Hue 1 day 3000
Hue – Phong Nha – Hue 1 day 3300
Hue – Thien Duong – Hue 1 day 3700

Note:

  • The above prices include tolls and parking fees.
  • VAT 10% is included.
  • Prices may change depending on the time. Please call +84 88 666 0396 (WhatsApp) for the quickest and most accurate consultation and quotation according to your itinerary needs. Thank you very much and we look forward to cooperating with you.

How is the 16-Seat Car Rental Price Calculated?

The 16-seat tourist car rental price list from DanangPrivateCar is calculated based on several factors:

  • Rental Service: The rental price varies depending on the service (airport transfers, inner-city trips, out-of-town trips, etc.).
  • Number of Kilometers Used: This is calculated from the time of picking up the customer to the time of drop-off according to the itinerary. Different distances result in different rental service prices.
  • Number of Rental Days: The price differs based on whether you rent the car for 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, a week, a month, etc. It also varies depending on whether you rent at the beginning or end of the week.
  • Holidays: Prices are adjusted during holidays to comply with Vietnamese government regulations.

Comparing DanangPrivateCar.com’s 16-Seat Car Rental Prices to Other Transport Services

As a leading provider of transportation services in Hue city and other cities in Vietnam, DanangPrivateCar.com is committed to offering the best quality 16-seat tourist car rental service at the best price.

The 16-seat tourist car rental service provides the most private, safe, and comfortable journeys

When renting from Danang Private Car’s, customers can be completely assured that they are getting the best price on the tourist car rental market in Hue. The 16-seat car rental price list in Hue is calculated accurately and transparently.

Please note that some transport companies might quote 16-seat car rental prices 100,000 – 300,000 VND lower than DanangPrivateCar.com. However, in reality, customers often end up paying many additional fees. Therefore, be a wise customer when choosing the reputable and professional car rental service of DanangPrivateCar.com in Hue.

Contact Information for DanangPrivateCar.com Tourist Car Rentals in Hue

Alternatively, customers can fill in the form below, and a staff member will call back to provide consultation once the information is received:

CONTACT FOR CAR RENTAL


Visit Elephant Spring in Hue for a summer picnic to cool off

Besides the Ru Cha mangrove forest, Lap An Lagoon, and the famous Ha Cang village, Hue also has the quite popular Elephant Spring ecological tourist area, especially on weekends or short holidays, particularly during the summer. Join DanangPrivateCar.com’s to explore this pristine yet captivating Hue tourist spot—a different piece of an ancient, serene, and tranquil former capital. Elephant Spring is sure to be an exciting picnic spot waiting for you to visit, so hurry up and go!

Overview of Elephant Spring

  • Location: Loc Tien Commune, Phu Loc District, Thua Thien Hue Province
  • Opening hours: All day
  • Ticket prices: Entrance fee: 10,000 VND per person. For under 200,000 VND, you can rent a spacious hut with basic food.

Elephant Spring in Hue boasts the pristine and wild beauty of the Central Highlands. It also features many appealing and unique local dishes. The large elephant-shaped rocks, the cool, refreshing water, and the fresh air are the highlights of this location.

The ancient trees providing ample shade create an extremely ideal space

Also known as Suoi Me (Mother Spring), this ecological tourist area attracts a large number of domestic and international visitors. It is typically a gathering spot for locals on weekends. There is nothing better than bringing your family here for relaxation and a picnic.

How to Get to Elephant Spring in Hue

Although Elephant Spring is one of the hottest ecological tourist spots in Hue, many visitors still don’t know its location. Let DanangPrivateCar.com guide you on how to get there!

If you start from Hue, simply drive along National Highway 1A and then pass Phú Trượng Pass for about 3km. Continue until you reach km marker 879, then turn right and drive a short distance further to reach the tourist area.

The route to get here is relatively close and quite easy to navigate, even for those visiting Hue for the first time.

For those starting from Da Nang, it will take a bit more time. From Da Nang city center, it takes about 55km to get there. Continue straight until you reach km marker 879, then turn left similarly to reach Elephant Spring.

If traveling by motorbike, it will take about 1 hour. For a quicker and more convenient option, you can hire a taxi.

To explore Elephant Spring in the best way possible, you can use the motorbike tour service provided by DanangMotorbikeAdventure.com. With their motorbike tour service, you can comfortably explore Elephant Spring to the fullest, discovering various places such as the Hai Van Pass, Lap An Lagoon, and more. Book your motorbike tour from Hue to Hoi An today!

Best Time to Visit Elephant Spring

Highly popular among tourists, Elephant Spring is considered the most famous ecological tourist spot in Hue, known for its pristine, clear, and captivating scenery among the forests and mountains. This picnic spot enchants many visitors and deepens their love for Central Vietnam tourism.

This picnic spot is especially suitable for trips during the dry season (summer). During this time, the weather here is very cool and pleasant, perfect for relaxation. When you visit, you’ll find the scenery incredibly poetic and charming.

Exploring and Experiencing Elephant Spring

Check-in with the Elephant-shaped Rock

Anyone visiting Elephant Spring is impressed by the large rock shaped like a giant elephant located right at the entrance. This amusing and enormous elephant-shaped rock is also referred to as “Mệ” by the locals. Therefore, locals often call this place “Suối Mệ,” meaning the stream with a giant elephant.

The amusing elephant-shaped rock is the iconic symbol of Elephant Spring

Due to its impressive feature, nearly everyone who visits loves taking photos and checking in with this adorable mascot. However, you should be cautious when taking pictures with this scenic spot to avoid any unfortunate accidents.

It’s best to stand next to the elephant to pose rather than climbing on its body or trunk. This ensures safety and prevents any damage to the stream’s mascot.

Soaking in the Cool Water

One activity you shouldn’t miss here is immersing yourself in the refreshing, crystal-clear water. The Elephant Pool area is at the base of two waterfalls, covering more than 30 square meters and reaching depths of up to 2 meters. This spot allows you to fully experience Hue’s natural beauty.

Elephant Spring is an ideal destination where you can cool off and relax

This area is also considered a natural swimming pool with water so clear you can see the bottom. Many visitors are captivated by the large stone formations beneath the stream. The pebbles here are quite unique, varying in size, type, and color. Under the cool water, occasionally, colorful lights reflect off the stones, mesmerizing visitors who dive to the bottom to observe and touch them.

Additionally, you can rent local huts for resting, relaxing, and enjoying Hue’s delicacies, prepared by locals from natural products.

Physical Activities at Elephant Spring

At Elephant Spring, you can engage in not only check-in activities and stream bathing but also various other experiences. Activities such as catching crabs, stream snails, and fish are typically found in rustic ecological tourist areas.

Dipping your feet in the cool water while searching for multicolored, sparkling stones will significantly enhance your mood. The water is so clear that if you drop something, you can easily spot and retrieve it.

If you enjoy vigorous activities, you can head to the swing area for thrilling games. Don’t forget to capture these lively, unique, and new moments with your camera.

What to Eat at Elephant Spring?

Elephant Spring not only offers cool, fresh air and stunning scenery, but it is also famous for many delicious Hue dishes. Just one taste, and you will never forget the distinctive flavors of Central Vietnamese cuisine, especially Hue specialties.

According to many visitors, with about 150,000 VND – 300,000 VND, you can rent a hut by the stream with an amazing view. Sitting here, you can freely enjoy and relax with family and friends. This amount also includes a meal featuring a fragrant roasted hen or hill chicken, along with a hearty chicken vermicelli dish, enough for 2-3 people.

Additionally, you can order some freshly grilled dishes like grilled fish, grilled stream snails, and grilled frogs, all freshly caught. There are also other dishes prepared in various styles: boiled, stir-fried with betel leaves, stir-fried with lemongrass, etc. The highlight of the food here is its freshness and reasonable prices without any overcharging.

The most convenient option is to order your food in advance so that after your swim, a hot, fragrant meal will be ready for you. The experience of enjoying rustic, locally-flavored dishes after a refreshing swim is truly an unforgettable part of visiting Hue.

If you’re planning to explore Hue – Da Nang, don’t forget to visit Elephant Spring – a wonderful ecological tourist area. Here, you can engage in various activities to enhance your physical well-being and relaxation, such as stream bathing, sunbathing, and more. DanangPrivateCar.com wishes you good health to accompany us on the long journey of exploring Vietnam!

Visit Hon Chen Temple in Hue – sacred Cham heritage in the heart of Hue city

Hon Chen Temple in Hue is known as an extremely sacred place of worship, a symbol of Hue’s culture. If you visit during the festival season, you will witness a multitude of vibrant colors and cultural aspects that only dreamy Hue possesses. So why wait? Let’s explore Hon Chen Temple with DanangPrivateCar.com’s right away! Let’s go!.

Introduction to Hon Chen Temple in Hue

Where is Hon Chen Temple located?

Hon Chen Temple is situated on Ngoc Tran Mountain, within the territory of Ngoc Ho Village, Huong Tra Town, Thua Thien Hue Province. This temple holds significant importance in the spiritual life of the people of Hue and is also the only temple in Hue that harmoniously combines royal rituals with cultural and folk beliefs.

With intricate dragon and phoenix motifs, Hon Chen Temple also showcases the pinnacle of decorative artistry reached at the end of the 19th century.

To explore Hue and its many attractions, the private tour service with a driver in Hue from DanangPrivateCar.com will help you with that. With door-to-door service and local drivers, you will be able to discover Hue in general, as well as Hon Chen Temple in particular, in the best possible way. Additionally, if you are in Da Nang or Hoi An and want to visit Hue in a day, you can book a day trip from Da Nang to Hue with us.

The legend associated with the name of Hon Chen Temple is quite remarkable. Explaining the name “Hon Chen” in Hue.

Both Hon Chen Temple or Hoan Chen Temple are closely linked to the most prominent legend here. Once, during a boat trip on the Perfume River, King Minh Mang accidentally dropped a precious jade cup. It seemed impossible to retrieve, but then a turtle emerged, holding the jade cup in its mouth, returning it to the king. Doesn’t it sound similar to the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake? Besides, at one point, the temple was also renamed Huệ Nam Điện (bringing blessings to the southern kingdom) during the reign of King Dong Khanh. Whatever the reason, the history section of the temple on DanangPrivateCar.com will explain it to you right away. However, due to the short reign, people were still not accustomed to this name. Therefore, later on, the temple on Ngoc Tran Mountain continued to be called Hon Chen Temple.

The history of Hon Chen Temple

Hon Chen Temple was initiated for construction during the reign of King Gia Long, primarily for Daoist worship. However, during the Nguyen Dynasty, the temple was mentioned in ancient texts with the official name “Ngoc Tran Son Tu”, meaning “temple at Ngoc Tran Mountain”. During the reign of King Dong Khanh, as he awaited succession from his father, King Tu Duc, who had not yet abdicated, he sought help from his mother to visit Ngoc Tran Temple to pray and consult the Holy Mother Thien Y Ana to see if he would become king. The Holy Mother assured him that his wish would be fulfilled. Therefore, immediately after ascending to the throne in 1886, to repay the favor to the Holy Mother, he had the temple renovated in a grand manner, casting numerous sacred objects for worship, and renaming the temple Hue Nam Dien.

Hue Nam Palace is located beside the green and picturesque Perfume River.

Hon Chen Temple in Hue – Bustling festival seasons

When visiting Hon Chen Temple in Hue, you will not only see architectural structures with a strong historical imprint such as Minh Kinh Dai Temple, Ngoc Hoang Palace, altars of officials, Ngoai Canh Pagoda, and the cave shrine of Mr. Tiger. In addition, there are also Quan Cu Temple, Thanh Pagoda, Trinh Cat Institute, and Thuy Phu Palace right next to the Perfume River. What’s particularly noteworthy is that to this day, Hon Chen Temple still preserves over 600 ceremonial items belonging to 284 different categories, all of immense historical value.

The festival is colorful with a variety of vibrant costumes

If you happen to visit during a festival, you’ll witness a completely different Hon Chen Temple with vibrant colors such as dragon boats, traditional costumes ranging from ao dai to ceremonial attire. Festivals are not only about worshiping deities but also about local cultural and spiritual life. Festivals are divided into two main parts: the procession of deities (escorting the deities back to the temple) and the main ceremony.

Procession of Deities

The Procession of Deities is held to escort the goddess Thien Y Ana from Hon Chen Temple to Hai Cat Village. As a significant event, the Procession of Deities is conducted very solemnly on the Perfume River with many dragon boats adorned with intricate dragon and phoenix motifs. The surroundings are decorated with colorful flags. The festival atmosphere is lively with the sound of folk songs and traditional music performances.

Grand dragon boats used in the festival

Main Ceremony

The main ceremony takes place immediately after the Procession of Deities, once the deities and Holy Mother have been welcomed. The ritual involves various diverse activities, including offerings to the Holy Mother, releasing of creatures, releasing of lanterns, village ceremonies at Hai Cat… All visitors enthusiastically embrace this deeply local and spiritual culture, so every festival season draws large crowds to experience it.

Overwhelmed by the colors of the festival

What do visitors say about Hon Chen Temple in Hue?

“The scenery is beautiful. You can also have a panoramic view of the river from the port. However, the road leading to this place is quite narrow and dangerous. It’s better to go by motorcycle or boat for safety.” Phuc Nguyen – A Google Local Guide shared.

“Hon Chen Temple is very solemn, and the ticket collector said it’s very sacred. Stepping into the temple feels serene and indescribable. There are two ways to enter the temple: the road is quite rough, there are two paths leading to the temple gate, and the ticket gate is only at the direction of the pier. Usually, tourists take the boat, only locals take this route. If you go to Thien Mu Pagoda, just go straight on that road to reach the temple. About 5km and in the direction I went, on the left gate.” Excerpt from a very detailed comment by Balo Taka.

Notes when visiting Hon Chen Temple:

  • The road is quite narrow, so it can be dangerous, therefore, it’s safer to choose to go by boat! Taking a boat on the Perfume River will also give you more interesting experiences!
  • Inside the temple area, photography is not allowed, so please be mindful of that!
  • As it is a sacred area, please dress modestly, avoid excessive exposure to preserve the peaceful atmosphere inside the temple.
  • Avoid loud and disruptive behavior within the temple area.
  • Maintain general cleanliness to preserve the scenic beauty for those who come after you.
  • Even during festival seasons, you will see many local people throwing a lot of fake gold and silver paper into the Perfume River to pray for good luck, so please refrain from doing so! Because this will affect the ecological system of the river as well as environmental pollution.

DanangPrivateCar.com’s has introduced to you about a famous and sacred temple in Hue. Many travelers brave long distances to visit Hon Chen Temple to pray for blessings or express their wishes to the deities there! Therefore, if you are a spiritual devotee, your itinerary to explore Hue should definitely not overlook Hon Chen Temple!

Explore the historical origins of the tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue

The tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue is one of the famous tombs recognized by UNESCO as a World Cultural Heritage Site in 1993. Let’s explore the fascinating features of this beautiful and captivating architectural complex. Situated in a picturesque landscape, distinguished by its unique architecture, intricate carvings, and harmonious design, the tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue remains a destination rich in historical value, attracting numerous travelers to visit when they come to the ancient capital.

Introduction to the Tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue

Where is the Tomb of King Thieu Tri located?

The historical site of the Tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue is nestled amidst vast hills in the area of Cu Chanh village, Thuy Bang commune, Huong Thuy district, approximately 8km from the city center of Hue.

If you’re looking for a means of transportation to get to the Tomb of King Thieu Tri, the private car rental service with a driver in Hue provided by DanangPrivateCar.com will help ensure you have a safe and comfortable journey. With our private car service, we will pick you up and drop you off at your destination. While you explore, our driver will wait for you at no extra cost, and our transparent pricing will help you have the most cost-effective trip. Additionally, if you’re in Da Nang or Hoi An, you can book a day trip from Da Nang to Hue to visit various attractions in Hue

The Formation Process of the Tomb of Thieu Tri in Hue

The Tomb of Thieu Tri is also known by another name, Xương Lăng, serving as the resting place of King Thieu Tri – the third monarch of the Nguyễn Dynasty and the eldest son of King Minh Mạng. King Thieu Tri ascended the throne for 7 years before falling seriously ill and passing away on November 4th, 1847. As the tomb had not been constructed yet, the king’s remains were temporarily kept at Long An Palace within Bao Dinh Imperial Complex for 8 months.

Before his passing, King Thieu Tri had instructed his son (King Tu Duc) regarding the construction of his tomb. Consequently, the Tomb of King Thieu Tri features a rather distinctive architectural style compared to the tombs of his predecessors. It is also the only tomb facing the Northwest – a direction uncommon in the architectural works of tombs or palaces during the Nguyễn Dynasty.

The son of King Thieu Tri, King Tu Duc, proceeded to build a tomb for his father after ascending the throne, naming the tomb the Tomb of Thieu Tri.

After King Thieu Tri’s demise, construction of the tomb for his father began under King Tu Duc reign in February 1848. By March 1848, the Toại Đạo (the main pathway) and the tunnel for transporting the king’s coffin into the tomb were completed. In November 1848, the memorial stone tablet inscribed with a lengthy eulogy of over 2,500 characters, composed by King Tu Duc himself, was erected.

The main architectural structures of the tomb were completed by May 1848. King Tu Duc personally inspected the construction for the final time in June 1848, and approximately 10 days later, King Thieu Tri’s remains were laid to rest inside the tomb.

The Unique Architectural Features of the Tomb of King Thieu Tri

The structure of the Tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue consists of two main areas: the tomb axis on the right side and the sacrificial axis on the left side.

  • Tomb Axis: The main tomb area is located in a picturesque setting, with the Nhuan Trach Lake in front, connected to the Điện Lake in the Sacrificial area through an underground drainage system. Behind the Nhuận Trạch Lake is a screen wall and the Nghi Mon Gate made of cast bronze in the “dragon vein bronze pillar” style leading to the Bai Dinh Courtyard, continuing to the Bi Dinh and the Duc Hinh Pavilion.
  • Sacrificial Axis: This worship area is situated 100 meters to the left of the Duc Hinh Pavilion and is constructed differently. To reach the Bieu Duc Palace (where the worship of King and Queen Tu Du is performed), one passes through the Nghi Môn Gate made of jade stone and the Hong Trach Gate.

Strong Rural Charm in the Surrounding Walls

Unlike other royal tombs in Hue, the Tomb of Thieu Tri does not have surrounding walls; instead, natural hills and artificial mounds in the surrounding area are used to create screen walls and rear curtains. It can be said that the tomb is surrounded by rice fields and green gardens, giving it a deep rural, serene, and tranquil atmosphere.

The crescent-shaped lake surrounds the front of the Bửu Thành Palace, where the king’s tomb is located

Unique Orientation of the Tomb

The Tomb of King Thieu Tri faces the Northwest, a direction not commonly used in prominent architectural structures in Hue at that time. However, considering Feng Shui, it aligns with the principle of “mountain facing water,” symbolizing prosperity. Additionally, the Vọng Cảnh hill, located about 1km from the tomb, and the Ngoc Tran mountain on the left side, facing towards the tomb, create the “guardian dragon watching over tiger” position for the tomb. The “forecourt” for the tomb area is the Chằm mountain about 8km away, and the Bau Ho cave, located closer, acts as a natural barrier for the sacrificial area.

Among the complex of royal tombs in Hue, the Tomb of King Thieu Tri is the only one facing the Northwest direction

The Surrounding Landscape of the Tomb of Thieu Tri

Surrounding the Tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue is the tranquil scenery of the countryside, with lush green trees, vast stretches of verdant rice fields, and the system of tombs of his mother, wife, kings, queens, and the offspring of King Thieu Tri gathering and reuniting.

The resting place of King Thieu Tri boasts a serene landscape, evoking a sense of tranquility and peace for visitors who come here

Slightly ahead of the Tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue is the Tomb of Hieu Dong (his mother – Lady Ho Thi Hoa), behind and to the left is the Tomb of Xuong Tho (his wife – Lady Tu Du), while in front lies the “tảo thương” burial area, the resting place of kings, petite queens, and the offspring of King Thieu Tri.

Ticket Prices for Visiting the Tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue

The ticket price for visiting the Tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue is the same for both Vietnamese and international visitors, set at 50,000 VND per adult ticket, FREE for children.

Other Famous Royal Tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty in Hue

The tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty kings are all distinguished by their unique architecture and hold significant historical value across different periods.

Khai Dinh Tomb

Khai Dinh Tomb stands out among the seven royal tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty for its unique architecture, blending Eastern and Western styles influenced by various architectural schools such as Buddhism, Roman, Indian, and Gothic.

Minh Mang Tomb – One of the Three Most Unique Royal Tombs in Hue

Minh Mang Tomb is renowned for its favorable Feng Shui and picturesque scenery. Additionally, its architectural features are exceptionally prominent. The tomb complex consists of 40 large and small structures arranged along a central axis.

Tu Duc Tomb

When visiting Hue, do not miss Tu Duc Tomb, known as the most beautiful among the seven royal tombs of the Nguyen Dynasty, built during King Tu Duc’s reign. This tomb boasts architectural features with a sense of grandeur, soft lines, along with beautiful natural surroundings, providing a delightful experience.

Tu Duc Tomb (Khem Lang) is located on the right side of Canh Vong Hill

Here are some notes to remember when visiting the Tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue

As it is a place of solemnity and worship, please take note of the following during your visit to the Tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue:

  • Pay attention to dressing modestly and respectfully, avoiding revealing or offensive attire.
  • Maintain orderliness, refrain from playing around, and avoid speaking loudly.
  • Follow the regulations set by the tourism management authority, respect the significance of the site, refrain from touching artifacts, and avoid climbing on statues or sacred objects.
  • Preserve general cleanliness, refrain from littering, as it affects the surrounding landscape

The Tomb of King Thieu Tri in Hue is an enticing destination that visitors should not overlook when exploring the ancient capital to witness the rich historical value and unique architectural features of the royal tombs. Refer to the information provided in the article to plan your visit to the Tomb of Thieu Tri effectively. Wishing you a joyful and fulfilling journey.

 

Conquering the Hai Van Quan in the Hai Van Pass – the foremost defensive stronghold in Hue

Located on the mountain pass from Hue to Danang, Hai Van Quan is one of the must-visit destinations for history enthusiasts and lovers of majestic nature. It is said that in ancient times, King Le Thanh Tong bestowed upon Hai Van Quan six precious characters: “Thien ha de nhat hung quan” (The foremost mighty pass under the sky). So what wonders does this place hold? Join DanangPrivateCar.com’s to explore in today’s article.

Some special features of Hai Van Quan:

  • Address: Hai Van Pass Summit, Lang Co Town, Phu Loc District, Hue
  • Operating hours: All day
  • Ticket price: Free

Located on the administrative boundary between Da Nang City and Thua Thien Hue Province, Hai Van Quan is a defensive work built during the Nguyen Dynasty in 1826. Up to now, Hai Van Quan has been classified by the state as a national historical and architectural relic.

The ancient charm of Hai Van Quan attracts many visitors

Situated at the summit of Hai Van Pass at an altitude of 496 meters above sea level, Hai Van Quan not only bears significant historical marks but also possesses picturesque and charming mountain scenery, attracting numerous tourists to stop by this place.

With its “unique” location, Hai Van Quan used to be one of the most important checkpoints in our country, controlling both the road from the south to Hue and the sea route at the foot of the mountain.

Experience conquering the foremost defensive stronghold

Ideal time to conquer Hai Van Pass to reach the stronghold

Situated atop Hai Van Pass, the foremost stronghold is not only beautiful amidst the vibrant wildflowers of spring but also majestic under the golden June sun. However, to truly experience the beauty of Hai Van Quan, you need to keep in mind the following important points in your travel guide:

Located in the South Central Coast, Hai Van Quan also experiences two distinct seasons: dry season and rainy season. Often, the weather here is influenced by the Central Highlands, making it quite unpredictable with occasional rain and sun. Therefore, the ideal time for you to pack your bags and come here is during the dry season from March to August. During this time, the weather is quite good, with clear skies, fewer clouds, and thunderstorms, making your journey comfortable.

You should visit Hai Van Quan during the dry season from March to August

A small tip for your adventure is to start early in the morning (4-5 am) or late in the afternoon (from 5 pm) to catch the sunrise and sunset on the pass. Exploring Hai Van Quan at this time will make the scenery even more beautiful.

Route to Hai Van Quan

Hai Van Quan is open to visitors all day and completely free of charge. If you are planning a trip to Hue and want to explore this mysterious destination, you can choose a motorbike or car for an exciting experience.

The road to Hai Van Quan is set amidst majestic hills and mountains

Starting your journey from the imperial city of Hue, you will pass through the An Duong Vuong – Nguyen Tat Thanh route to reach Huong Thuy town. Then, you will proceed onto National Highway 1A, about 60km further is a left turn at Cafe Binh Chau, and moving a short distance of a few tens of meters more will lead you to Hai Van Quan.

Exploring Hai Van Quan

Admiring the ancient fortress on Hai Van Quan

Hai Van Quan is considered a pinnacle of military architecture in our country. Located at a strategically vulnerable position, Hai Van Quan was built with three unique gates:

  • Front Gate: Facing Thua Thien with the inscription “Hai Van Quan”. This is also the largest gate in this relic, 15 thước high, 17 thước 1 tấc long, and 17 thước wide.
The ancient fortress is currently undergoing restoration and is expected to reopen by the end of 2023
  • Back Gate: Facing Quang Nam, inscribed with “Thien Ha De Nhat Hung Quan”. It is 15 thước high, 11 thước long, and 18 thước 1 tấc wide.
  • Slope Gate: The smallest gate of Hai Van Quan, only 10 thước 8 tấc high and 8 thước 1 tấc wide.

During the Minh Mang era, this structure was equipped with 5 bronze cannons, 200 flamethrowers, 100 sky-reaching cannons, and ammunition. However, with the devastation of war and the passage of time, the walls and gates have suffered considerable damage.

Today, if you have the opportunity to visit Hai Van Quan, you can also explore the guard towers and moss-covered gates. All of these are venerable relics steeped in history with vivid traces of a mysterious past.

Admiring Lang Co Beach

At the foot of Hai Van Pass, you will discover the magnificent beauty of Lang Co Bay, located approximately 70km from Hue City and over 30km from Danang City. With one side featuring pristine coastline, the other side adorned with a charming lagoon and lush green mountains, Lang Co Bay forms a magnificent natural painting that no one wants to miss. This is an ideal stop for those who want to relax and immerse themselves in the beauty amidst the sea and mountains in Central Vietnam.

From the ancient fortress, you can admire the entire beautiful space unfolding before your eyes

Conquering the North-South natural route

At Hai Van Quan, you not only have the opportunity to explore history but also to check-in at the North-South natural route, the longest longitudinal road in Vietnam since ancient times. This route is also known as the mandarin road because in ancient times it was a major road reserved for officials and less used by commoners.

The Hai Van Pass road passes through the sturdy fortress when viewed from above

Admiring Hai Van Pass

Hai Van Pass, with a length of 21km and an altitude of 500m above sea level, is not only one of Vietnam’s special mountain passes but also a wonderful destination for nature lovers.

Although not the highest or longest mountain pass, with its majestic natural scenery, Hai Van Pass will offer you incredible experiences. Here, there are towering mountains above and the blue sea below, creating a magnificent landscape unmatched anywhere else. This captivates every traveler who sets foot here, even leaving them in awe before the spectacular beauty of nature.

Transportation to Hai Van Quan

Motorbike

Many travelers choose to explore Hai Van Quan by motorbike due to its flexibility and the opportunity to fully immerse themselves in the journey. It provides a sense of freedom and adventure, allowing you to stop at various viewpoints along the way to admire the spectacular scenery and capture memorable photos. Riding a motorbike also allows you to experience the thrill of conquering the winding roads of Hai Van Pass firsthand, creating an exhilarating and unforgettable journey.

Visiting Hai Van Quan by motorbike tour is an exciting experience

You can rent a motorbike in Danang City and then travel to Hai Van Quan. Please note that Hai Van Pass is one of the challenging mountain passes, so you should consider driving yourself carefully.

Additionally, you can book motorbike tour services from Hue to Hoi An through DanangMotorbikeAdventure.com. This is a leading provider of motorbike tour services in Central Vietnam. With experienced drivers, they will ensure you have the best motorbike trip.

Private Vehicle

For those who prefer a more comfortable and convenient option, traveling to Hai Van Quan by private vehicle is an excellent choice. Whether it’s a car or a rented van with a driver, a private vehicle offers the convenience of door-to-door transportation without the hassle of navigating through traffic or worrying about parking. It provides a relaxed and leisurely journey, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenery as you make your way to Hai Van Quan. With a private vehicle, you can also travel with family or friends, making it a perfect option for group outings or family excursions.

A private vehicle with a driver helps you to visit Hai Van Quan safely and comfortably.

For large groups of travelers, families, or friends, booking a private car with a driver in Danang through DanangPrivateCar.com is the top choice. The drivers of DanangPrivateCar.com will pick you up anywhere in Danang, then take you through Hai Van Pass and to Hai Van Quan for sightseeing and admiring the beautiful scenery. Book your trip from Danang to Hue by private car today to explore Hai Van Quan to the fullest.

Hai Van Quan, through generations, still preserves its grand and majestic gate as a shield protecting our homeland. Visiting Hai Van Quan, you will feel rejuvenated when contemplating a relic that was once so significant in ancient times.

The Schedule of the Hue Festival 2024 – Cultural Heritage with Integration and Development

In 2024, it’s the scheduled year for organizing the Hue International Arts Festival 2024, with the purpose of hosting a series of festival activities throughout the year to honor and promote the outstanding values of Huế and Vietnamese culture, exploiting strengths in landscapes, various festival forms, spiritual tourism, attracting tourists, contributing to socio-economic development, making Thua Thien Hue truly become the characteristic Festival City of Vietnam.

The Hue Festival 2024 will be organized with activities lasting throughout the year, starting with the Opening Ceremony – Ban Sóc Ceremony on January 1, 2024, and ending with the Countdown Program on December 31, 2024, with the highlight being the Huế Festival Week 2024 taking place from June 7 to 12, 2024.

Spring Festival “Ancient Capital Spring” (January – March)

The Spring Festival spans the first three months of the year, including imperial festivals, traditional festivals, and unique folk festivals. The highlight is the opening program of the Hue Four Seasons Festival 2024, the Ban Sóc ceremony, numerous royal and folk Tet activities, along with traditional Tet customs, the cultural space of traditional Tet, and the spring entertainment activities of the ancient capital of Hue combined with commemorating the Liberation Day of Thua Thien Hue.

  • Opening of the Hue Festival 2024 and Ban Sóc Ceremony: January 1, 2024, at Ngọ Môn, Imperial City of Hue.
  • Royal Offering Ceremony (erecting the Neu tree): February 2, 2024 (23rd day of the 12th lunar month) at the Imperial City of Hue.
  • Royal Tet: February 2 – February 6, 2024 (23rd – 27th day of the 12th lunar month).
  • New Year’s Eve Art Program: February 9, 2024 (30th day of the last lunar month) at Ngọ Môn Square, Imperial City of Huế.
  • Village Wrestling Festival: February 15, 2024 (6th day of the 1st lunar month).
  • Huyen Tran Temple Festival: February 18, 2024 (9th day of the 1st lunar month).
  • Village Wrestling Festival at Sinh Village: February 19, 2024 (10th day of the 1st lunar month).
  • Hue Poetry Day: February 23 – February 24, 2024 (14th – 15th day of the 1st lunar month).
  • “Welcoming Summer in Hue 2024” event: March 2024.
  • Activities commemorating the Liberation Day of Thừa Thiên Huế: March 2024.

Activities in response

  • The “Hue Tet” program, led by the Municipal Party Committee’s Mass Mobilization Board in coordination with units across the city from February 1, 2024, to February 6, 2024 (from the 22nd to the 27th day of the 12th lunar month).
  • The 2024 Giáp Thìn Spring Journalism Festival, celebrating the Party and the Spring, led by the Journalists’ Association in coordination with the Department of Culture and Sports, and Ho Chi Minh Museum organized the Giáp Thìn Tet.
  • The Hoàng Mai Festival organized by the Huế Hoàng Mai Association in February 2024.
  • The 3rd Traditional Boat Racing Festival in Huế City on March 26, 2024, organized by the Huế City People’s Committee.
  • Áo Dài Fashion Show during March 2024, organized by the Provincial Women’s Union.
  • The 2024 Young Artists Exhibition organized by the Union of Literary and Artistic Associations of Thừa Thiên Huế on March 26, 2024.
  • The 2024 Cultural Heritage Creation Program with the theme “Journey of Painting Beauty about People and Phú Lộc Land” organized by the Huế Fine Arts Museum in March 2024.
  • The exhibition “Woodcut Paintings about Vietnam on the Nine Peaks of the Nguyễn Dynasty” by Hanoi artists organized by the Huế Fine Arts Museum in March 2024.
  • The art photo exhibition “Spring Colors” on the occasion of paying homage to the eminent figure Đặng Huy Trứ organized by the Union of Literary and Artistic Associations of Thua Thien Hue in March 2024.

Summer Festival “The Capital Shines” (April – June)

The Summer Festival takes the spotlight with the Hue Festival Week 2024 themed “Cultural Heritage with Integration and Development” from June 7 to 12, 2024.

VNExpress Marathon Hue: April 7, 2024.

International Dance Festival: April 2024.

Điện Huệ Nam Festival: scheduled for April 10 – 11, 2024 (2nd & 3rd day of the 3rd lunar month).

14th National Architecture Student Festival: April 20 – 24, 2024.

Thuan An Seashore Calling Program 2024: April 28 – May 2, 2024.

Landscape and Antiquities Exhibition: April 2024.

International Sculpture Camp: early May 2024.

Vesak Week – Buddhist calendar 2568: May 15 – 22, 2024 (8th – 15th day of the 4th lunar month).

“Lang Co – Beautiful World Bay” program: May 2024.

Cultural, Sports, and Tourism Festival of ethnic groups in Thừa Thiên Huế province: May 2024.

“Tam Giang Waves” Festival: June 5 – 10, 2024.

The performances by various art groups during the Festival

Peak Week of the Hue Festival 2024 with the theme “Cultural Heritage with Integration and Development”:

  • Opening Ceremony of the Hue Festival Week 2024: June 7, 2024.
  • Performances by domestic and international art groups: at various stages and community stages: June 8 – 11, 2024.
  • “Vietnamese Noodle Journey”: June 8 – 10, 2024.
  • Trinh Cong Son Music Program: June 9, 2024.
  • “Cultural Colors” Street Festival: May 8 – 10, 2024.
  • Beer Festival: June 2024.
  • Closing Art Program of the Hue Festival Week 2024: June 12, 2024.
  • “Countryside Fair” Program: June 8 – 11, 2024.

Hue Ao Dai (Dress) Program 2024:

  • Dress Art Program: June 22, 2024.
  • Tribute Ceremony to Emperor Nguyen Phuc Khoat: June 25, 2024 (20th day of the 5th lunar month).
  • Hue Community Áo Dài Week 2024: June 26 – 30, 2024.
  • Vietnamese Pottery Journey: end of June 2024.

Activities in response

  • Organizing a book introduction competition for secondary school students in Huế City on Vietnam Book Day (April 2024) by the Thừa Thiên Huế Provincial General Library.
  • Art exhibition featuring artists from Huế and Ho Chi Minh City organized by the Huế Fine Arts Museum in collaboration in April 2024.
  • Thanh Tiên Paper Flower Festival and Làng Sình Painting Festival organized by the People’s Committee of Phú Mậu Commune in May 2024.
  • Art photography exhibition “Welcoming Summer” by the Union of Literary and Artistic Associations of Thừa Thiên Huế in May 2024.
  • Specialized exhibition “Điện Biên Phủ – Decisive Battle, Decisive Victory” commemorating 134 years since the birth of President Hồ Chí Minh (19/5/1890-19/5/2024); 70 years of the Điện Biên Phủ Victory (7/5/1954-7/5/2024) organized by the Ho Chi Minh Museum Thừa Thiên Huế in May 2024.
  • Art and Heritage Exhibition Part III organized by the Huế Imperial City Heritage Conservation Center in June 2024.
  • The 3rd Hue City “Youth Rhythm” Flashmob Festival organized by the Huế Youth Union in collaboration with the Huế City Department of Education and Training at the end of June 2024.
  • Children’s creative writing competition on the theme “Creating with Điềm Phùng Thị Art” on the occasion of International Children’s Day on June 1, 2024, organized by the Huế Fine Arts Museum.
  • Exhibition “The Beauty of Phú Lộc Homeland through Painting Art” and various ao dai display activities organized by the Huế Fine Arts Museum in June 2024.
  • Children’s painting competition based on books in June 2024 organized by the Thừa Thiên Huế Provincial General Library.

Autumn Festival “Hue in Autumn” (July – September)

With highlights including fun Mid-Autumn Festival activities such as the Huế International Lantern Festival 2024 combined with activities showcasing, arranging, lantern parades, lion dance performances…

Hue International Kite Festival 2024: July 26 – 30, 2024.

Community Health Sports Day 2024: July 2024.

Introduction program of street art and Hip-hop culture in the Ancient Capital: July 2024.

“Old Fragrance in Ancient Villages” Festival: end of July 2024 at Phước Tích Ancient Village, Phong Hòa Commune, Phong Điền District.

Quan The Am Festival: July 23 – 24, 2024 (June 18 – 19 Lunar Calendar).

Dien Hue Nam Festival: August 2024 (July Lunar Calendar).

Imperial Citadel Lights Night: August 2024.

Traditional boat racing festival on the Perfume River: September 2, 2024.

Hue Classical Opera “Echoes of the Ancient Thousand”: September 14, 2024 (August 12 Lunar Calendar).

LoPassing Festival (combined with honoring outstanding students): September 2024.

Tens of thousands of people attend the Quan The Am Festival in Hue

Mid-Autumn Festival Program:

  • Hue Lantern Festival 2024: September 13 – 17, 2024 (August 11 – 15 Lunar Calendar).
  • Lion – Unicorn – Dragon street parade: September 13 – 15, 2024 (August 11 – 13 Lunar Calendar).
  • Traditional Mid-Autumn Festival experience program in Huế: September 2024.

Activities in response

  • Science Festival in July 2024 organized by the Hue University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Hue University.
  • Gala performance of singing, dancing, and brass band by Children’s Houses, Children’s Activity Centers in the Southern region coordinated by the Hue Children’s House in collaboration with the Center for Culture, Information and Sports, the Hue Youth Union, the Department of Education and Training of Hue City at the end of July – beginning of August 2024.
  • Festival of Poetry Clubs throughout the province organized by the Union of Literary and Artistic Associations of Thừa Thiên Huế in July 2024.
  • Thanh Trà Festival XIII in 2024, from August 30 to September 3, 2024, organized by the People’s Committee of Thủy Biều Ward.
  • Music program “Huế in Autumn” organized by the Union of Literary and Artistic Associations of Thừa Thiên Huế in September 2024.
  • Specialized exhibition “Images of President Hồ Chí Minh in the revolutionary press through the periods” commemorating 79 years of the August Revolution and National Day September 2, 55 years of implementing President Hồ Chí Minh’s Will organized by the Ho Chi Minh Museum Thừa Thiên Huế in September 2024.
  • Cultural exchange program of the Imperial Capital VII, phase 2018 – 2023 organized by the Union of Literary and Artistic Associations of Thừa Thiên Huế in September 2024.

Winter Festival “Winter in Hue” (October – December)

The Winter Festival in Huế will organize a number of new festival activities to create a livelier and warmer atmosphere in the winter of Huế. At the same time, it will provide various forms of entertainment for tourists to enjoy during their stay in the Imperial City of Huế, with highlights including the International Music Week and the Countdown program welcoming the new year.

  • Asian Royal Court Art Festival (planned): October 2024.
  • Huế Women with Culinary Arts: October 2024.
  • Wellness Festival – Hue Health Care Week: November 2024.
  • Hue Music Week 2024: December 8 – December 12, 2024.
  • Countdown program: December 31, 2024.

Activities in response

  • Art Exhibition 2024 organized by the Union of Literary and Artistic Associations of Thua Thien Hue in October 2024.
  • Art exhibition celebrating Vietnamese Women’s Day on October 20th organized by the Hue Museum of Fine Arts in October 2024.

Above is the summary of the schedule for the Hue Festival 2024 that DanangPrivateCar.com’s sends to you. Hopefully, with this information, you will be able to plan your trip accordingly to fully experience the Hue Festival 2024. Don’t forget to use our private car service with a driver in Hue to have the best trip possible. Wish you and your family a memorable holiday in Huế.

An Bang Cemetery CITY OF GHOSTS – The most majestic cemetery in Vietnam

If you’ve ever been to Hue, Vietnam, you will undoubtedly be amazed by the vast tombs adorned with gold leaf paintings and exquisite carvings of the Nguyen kings. For generations, the people of Hue have always valued their graves when it comes to departing for the eternal realm, to entrust both their physical and spiritual selves. Those in their twilight years in Hue will consider finding a piece of land, often in a high and prominent location, to erect tombs for their descendants when they depart to the other world. And to “admire” the most majestic cemetery in Hue, I invite you to join me in An Bang village.

Located about 36 km from the city of Hue, along the coast, there is a famous fishing village that has attracted many visitors for years despite not being a tourist destination. An Bang village, part of Vinh An commune, Phu Vang district, is known as the “city of tombs” or the “ghost city of An Bang” with its “super tombs”. My village borders An Bang village, so every time I accompany my father back to our ancestral home, I have the opportunity to pass by this cemetery. Sometimes I stop for a long time to admire the majestic tombs resembling castles, intricately crafted no less than the royal tombs. Wandering through the narrow paths amidst the vast realm of the “others,” I never feel any sense of creepiness or chilliness; instead, I feel amazed and curious.

This place is considered the most luxurious cemetery in Vietnam, with thousands of tombs of various colors and sizes. Some tomb areas are estimated to be worth billions of Vietnamese dong

Lost in the maze

The An Bang Cemetery spans about 40,000 square meters, stretching towards the sea. To date, there are over a thousand tombs ranging from 40 to 400 square meters, with gates towering up to 7-8 meters high. Even the skilled artisans who specialize in building tombs here cannot recall the exact number. The construction cost for each tomb ranges from hundreds of millions to billions of Vietnamese dong, with some costing nearly tens of billions. Some tombs are built, only to be demolished several years later to construct larger ones, each new construction surpassing the grandeur of its predecessor. Dense and overlapping, closely linked one after another, the tombs in various colors and shapes sprawl across the sandy hills, making one feel as if stepping into a profound and mysterious land.

An Bang village, located in Vinh An commune, Phu Vang district, Thua Thien Hue province, is a place known by many as the “City of Tombs” or the “Ghost City.

How to get to the “City of Tombs”?

From the city of Hue, there are two directions to reach An Bang village:

  • Taking National Highway 49: From Hue, follow National Highway 49 towards Thuan An Beach, then continue along the coastal road for about 30 km to Vinh An commune. Upon arrival, you can ask locals for directions to the cemetery.
  • Heading towards Da Nang: From Hue, travel in the direction of Da Nang for approximately 16 km until you reach Thuy Phu commune. At the intersection with Hue bypass road, turn left towards Truong Ha Bridge. After crossing Truong Ha Bridge, turn right into Vinh An commune. From here, you can ask locals for directions to the cemetery.

Additionally, for the convenience of visiting the City of Tombs as well as other famous tourist spots in Hue, a motorbike tour is a perfect choice. With the motorbike tour service in Hue provided by DanangMotorbikeAdventure.com, you can have the best experiences. Book a motorbike tour from Hue to Hoi An today to explore the An Bang cemetery in the most comprehensive way.

Diverse Tomb Architecture

The unique feature of the tomb village lies not only in the scale of the tombs but also in the diverse architectural styles ranging from Buddhist, Christian, to Confucian influences… incorporating distinctive architectural features of tombs in Hue, creatively crafted by artisans according to the wishes of the tomb owners.

The wheel of dharma and Buddhist symbols on a tomb
The tomb in the style of Christianity includes a statue of the Virgin Mary
Another tomb with a modern style

In the past, the motifs of the four sacred animals like dragon, unicorn, tortoise, and phoenix were reserved only for kings and emperors, but now you can see them on many tombs here. On the stone steps, these mythical creatures exude both majesty and bravery as they guard the tombs. On the pillars, dragons and phoenixes coil and soar as if flying across the deep blue sky.

Guardian mythical creatures watch over the tombs

There are also sentimental landscape paintings. It seems that the living wish to offer the whole world to the departed. These meticulously crafted ceramic tiles, adorned with various colors, are intricately cut and embossed to form images.

The intricate patterns, intricate carvings, are exquisitely detailed

Do you think this is the resting place of the deceased?

With its towering triple gate, panoramic view pavilions, spacious courtyard, and serene rock gardens serving as decorative screens… it’s no different from a noble residence. The closely clustered tombs next to residential houses sometimes make it difficult to distinguish between tombs and shrines.

The path leading to the tomb.
The pillars resemble those of royal tombs

In addition to this unique cemetery, An Bang also boasts numerous grand ancestral temples. Along the concrete paths weaving through each small neighborhood, it’s easy to come across ancestral temples with closed gates, high walls, only opening during important ancestral anniversaries, and the scent of incense.

An ancestral temple within the village

Hue, Vietnam is a treasure trove of unique experiences, the more you explore, the more you discover. When visiting Hue, make sure to stop by An Bang village to learn more about this piece of the ancient capital. And don’t forget to utilize the private car rental service with drivers in Hue offered by DanangPrivateCar.com for unforgettable experiences.

Phuoc Tich Ancient Village – The ancient beauty hundreds of years old of the Craft Village of Hue

Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is currently a destination that attracts a lot of attention from tourists. The ancient beauty and the hospitality of the locals here have sparked curiosity and admiration in many people. If you’re still curious, why not join DanangPrivateCar.com’s to find the answers?

Overview of Phuoc Tich Ancient Village

The entrance fee to visit the village is free, but if you want to enter and take photos in the garden houses, it’s advisable to pay a fee of 50,000 VND per person to the homeowners.

The management board of Phuoc Tich Ancient Village provides bicycle rental service at a price of 20,000 VND per bike so that tourists can conveniently explore the village.

The gate leading to Phuoc Tich Ancient Village

Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is located 40 km north of the center of Hue City, displaying the pristine beauty of a Vietnamese rural village. The village is surrounded by the gentle and clear O Lau River. According to historical records, Phuoc Tich Village was founded in 1479 under the reign of King Le Thanh Tong and covers an area of ​​approximately 49 hectares. This is also a destination that many young people prioritize in their independent exploration itinerary of Hue due to the unique value that Phuoc Tich Ancient Village brings.

In 2009, Phuoc Tich Ancient Village became the second village to be recognized as a national heritage of Vietnam. With the advantage of a dense complex of ancient houses, intricately carved wooden details, historical relics, communal houses, pagodas, shrines, and interconnected green tree-lined roads, all deeply reflect the religious beliefs of the people of Hue.

Phuoc Tich Ancient Village embodies the simple beauty of Central Vietnam

Currently, Phuoc Tich Ancient Village offers 9 types of services including house visits, accommodation, cuisine, bicycles, pottery craft demonstrations, etc., so you can freely explore and learn about Phuoc Tich Ancient Village. The local people here are very enthusiastic and hospitable, tour guides and services are attentive, meeting the needs of cultural exchange, helping you understand the local culture. Therefore, Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is becoming an increasingly attractive destination for tourists who love to explore Hue.

The cultural beauty preserved in Phuoc Tich Ancient Village

Another special feature is the presence of traditional crafts such as the famous pottery craft that has been around for over 500 years with straw-fired firing techniques, creating renowned products. Therefore, when you come to Phuoc Tich Ancient Village, you will discover and experience a peaceful life of a tranquil, friendly countryside.

The roads in Phuoc Tich Ancient Village always bring about a peaceful atmosphere

How to get to Phuoc Tich Ancient Village

Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is located 35 km from the center of Hue City, taking about 40 minutes to travel, so you can rent a motorbike tour in Hue, hire a private car in Hue, or take a taxi to get here.

Explore by bicycle and experience the ancient beauty of Phuoc Tich Ancient VillageExplore by bicycle and experience the ancient beauty of Phuoc Tich Ancient Village
Explore by bicycle and experience the ancient beauty of Phuoc Tich Ancient Village

From Hue, you follow National Highway 1A northward for about 40 km, until you reach near My Chanh Bridge (in Hai Lang District, Quang Tri Province), then turn right onto National Highway 49B and drive about 1 km across the bridge over the O Lau River to reach Phuoc Tich Ancient Village.

To maintain its close and simple beauty, tourists visiting Phuoc Tich Ancient Village usually walk or rent bicycles and follow the guidance of tour guides.

Exploring Phuoc Tich Ancient Village

Visiting Phuoc Tich Ancient Village

In its early days, this village was named Phuc Giang. It wasn’t until the reign of King Gia Long that the village was renamed Phuoc Tich as it is known today, with the desire that the villagers would accumulate many blessings to pass down to future generations. True to its name’s meaning, generations of people in Phuoc Tich Ancient Village have upheld the traditions left by their ancestors. From one generation to the next, they are always ready to labor and create, contributing to the great values ​​of the rural village.

The unique architecture of ancient Vietnam

The unique architecture, cultural characteristics of family lineages, neighborhoods, and craft villages in Phuoc Tich Ancient Village have created a cultural beauty typical of the Central region.

The enduring beauty over the years

Another special feature that makes Phuoc Tich Ancient Village remarkable is the spaces of ancient houses and traditional garden houses arranged in three clusters. Additionally, there are characteristic Hue-style houses designed in the 3-section 2-wing layout.

The fascinating thing about the ancient houses in Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is that they seem to have been planned beforehand. Each house has a spacious garden separated by straight rows of tea bushes. These ancient houses are all over 100 years old, intricately carved with exquisite, captivating patterns.

The preserved architecture with a lifespan of over 100 years

In addition to the venerable moss-covered ancient houses, Phuoc Tich Ancient Village also offers visitors the opportunity to admire many ancient ancestral worship constructions, most notably the Cây Thị Shrine, also known as Miếu Bà, considered a sacred place of worship for the villagers.

Alongside the unique ancient houses and solemn ancestral worship constructions, Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is also home to an extremely distinctive traditional pottery craft.

The traditional pottery craft passed down through generations

Products created from the traditional pottery craft of Phuoc Tich Ancient Village have long been cherished offerings to the Nguyen dynasty kings. Phuoc Tich pottery is renowned for its durability, smoothness, and sophistication, all handmade and fired in charcoal kilns or updraft kilns.

Furthermore, within Phuoc Tich Ancient Village, there is the Hiển Linh Temple with a more than 500-year-old fig tree and traces of Cham religious beliefs, represented by the Yoni symbol.

Many tourists often visit this place because of the sacred and ancient atmosphere it offers

And a place you cannot miss in Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is the fragrant lotus pond of the village. Meticulously cared for by the villagers, the white lotus flowers with their light, pleasant fragrance enhance the ancient beauty of the entire village. This is also a sought-after check-in spot for the young generation in Hue.

Visiting Phuoc Tich Ancient Village, besides admiring its simple beauty and learning about the village, you also get to enjoy the local cuisine with familiar flavors that take you back to days gone by.

Some other images of Phuoc Tich Ancient Village

The serene and ancient beauty of Phuoc Tich Ancient Village
You’ll undoubtedly be overwhelmed by the tranquil serenity of the village
You will feel comfortable and peaceful with the tranquility that the village brings
Phuoc Tich Ancient Village looks gentle and beautiful on an early morning.
The village doesn’t use fences to separate, instead, it has rows of lush green tea trees
The Thị Tree(The gold apple tree) Shrine is sacred, and the fig tree is over 500 years old

Phuoc Tich Ancient Village is peaceful and friendly, making it an ideal place for you to visit when you’re tired of the noisy and chaotic city. With its ancient beauty spanning hundreds of years and the interesting experiences the village offers, it will surely create beautiful memories during your trip to Hue.

Thuy Bieu Village – A tranquil ancient village nestled peacefully amidst the city of Hue

Thuy Bieu Village exudes ancient beauty hidden amidst the hustle and bustle of Hue city. This is a tourist attraction that attracts the interest of many foreign visitors who want to experience the nostalgic charm and unique experiences that are hard to come by in ancient villages. Today, let’s visit Thuy Bieu Village with DanangPrivateCar.com’s to explore what interesting things this ancient village in Hue has to offer!

Some information about Thuy Bieu Village

Thuy Bieu Village is an ancient village, not too large in size, located about 5km from the center of Hue city. The special feature of the village is its rustic and simple scenery, not overly cemented, thus retaining many familiar images of old Vietnamese villages. Thuy Bieu Village is surrounded by many famous attractions such as the Perfume River – the symbol of Hue, and the renowned Vong Canh Hill.

Thuy Bieu can be roughly understood in Chinese as a water-containing vessel. The name is inspired by the image of the village nestled within the embrace of the Perfume River, creating an incredibly impressive, picturesque, tranquil, and beautiful landscape.

Thuy Bieu Village stands out with its tea orchards enveloping the surroundings, bringing an incredibly impressive beauty to tourists

Due to its strategic location, Thuy Bieu Village is a familiar destination for many tourists who want to admire its ancient beauty and experience the daily life here. Thuy Bieu Village is close to many famous scenic spots with traditional ancient beauty such as Vong Canh Hill, Tu Duc Tomb, Huyen Khong Son Thuong Pagoda, and the extremely sacred Thien Mu Pagoda. Therefore, you can combine it with many other attractive attractions to have a complete itinerary to explore the full beauty of the traditional culture of Hue while saving time and energy!

In addition to the unique beauty of Thuy Bieu Village, you also have the opportunity to enjoy delicious, juicy tea fruits grown here. It can be said that tea is a symbol of this village. Besides exploring the ancient beauty to your heart’s content, enjoying tea in the village is also an experience worth trying.

Thuy Bieu Village – A place preserving and conserving many ancient treasures.

Tiger Fighting Arena, Elephant Shelter – architectural works from the Nguyen Dynasty era.

In addition to the peaceful natural scenery, Thuy Bieu Village also preserves many unique architectural works from our ancestors. A notable example is the Tiger Fighting Arena, Elephant Shelter, which was once illustrious during the reign of the Nguyen kings. Although some details have eroded over time, when you visit today, you can still feel the fierceness and fervor of the ancient fighters. This is an extremely interesting attraction that helps you understand more about the pastime of ancient kings and the stories surrounding it.

This ancient architectural marvel has now become a famous tourist attraction in Hue

Ancient Houses in Thuy Bieu Village

In addition to the prominent architectural works, Thuy Bieu Village is also appealing because of its ancient small houses from ancient times. Each house stands out with its nostalgic beauty, bearing many historical imprints accumulated over hundreds of years.

The ancient houses in Thuy Bieu Village with their vintage designs are still preserved intact over time

The types of ancient houses in Thuy Bieu Village stand out with structures consisting of many beams and pillars, without partitions. Most of the ancient houses in the village are adorned and accentuated with intricate relief sculptures by skilled craftsmen of the past.

Enjoying the delicious and enchanting tea fruits in Thuy Bieu Village

After wandering around and exploring all of Thuy Bieu Village, you should immediately indulge in the fruit closely associated with the reputation of this ancient village. That fruit is none other than the tea fruit. Perhaps due to the soil in the village being very suitable for tea trees, when you taste it, you will feel a very delicious, especially sweet and juicy flavor.

The Thanh Tra Fruit Festival in 2018 was organized regularly to help promote tea fruit products to a larger number of tourists

Especially, in each tea fruit blooming season, Thuy Bieu Village is covered by a very unique and rare beauty. In spring, when the tea flowers bloom pure white and emit a fragrant aroma, this scent lingers and captivates anyone who visits, making every traveler curious. Then, in summer, the tea fruits officially ripen, each fruit is proportionally sized, has a beautiful green color, and is very firm. So if you have the opportunity to visit Thuy Bieu Village in the summer, you will see tea fruits being sold everywhere in the village, don’t hesitate to buy them as gifts for your loved ones or friends! This will surely be a very meaningful and attractive gift.

Visit Thuy Bieu Village to experience the gentle rhythm of life, to feel the serene and nostalgic natural scenery. This is a place for tourists to return to, to learn about the roots, about the lives of our ancestors in the past. If you want to find a place with traditional beauty in Hue for enjoyable exploration, close to the city, and easy to reach, then Thuy Bieu Village is the top choice for you. Quickly note down this destination in your itinerary to explore Hue so you don’t forget to visit!

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