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The Hue Historic Citadel, or Dai Noi Hue, stands as one of Vietnam's most iconic and well-preserved historical landmarks. Located in the heart of Hue City, the Citadel is not only a UNESCO World Heritage Site but also a powerful testament to the grandeur of Vietnam's feudal past. In this blog, we will take you on a journey to explore the beauty, history, and significance of this ancient imperial city, providing an in-depth guide to the attractions, experiences, and things to keep in mind when visiting the Hue Historic Citadel.
The Hue Historic Citadel is located on the northern banks of the Perfume River, in the city center of Hue, central Vietnam. This monumental structure was the home of the Nguyen Dynasty and is one of the most important relics of Vietnam's history.
Address: The Hue Historic Citadel, Hue City, Thua Thien Hue Province
Opening Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:30 PM
Ticket Prices:
Adult: 150,000 VND
Child ticket: 30,000 VND
Additional fees may apply for special areas or guided tours
It is a major cultural hub for visitors interested in Vietnam's history and ancient civilization (Source: Internet)
The Hue Historic Citadel was constructed in 1804 by Emperor Gia Long, the first ruler of the Nguyen Dynasty. The Citadel served as the political and cultural center of Vietnam for over a century, until the end of the monarchy in 1945. With its impressive architecture and layout, the Citadel was inspired by the Forbidden City of Beijing, China, but with distinct features reflecting Vietnam’s unique royal culture.
The Citadel’s construction took almost 30 years to complete, and its strategic location near the Perfume River made it an ideal site for both defense and governance. The layout is based on ancient principles of feng shui, designed to harmonize with the natural environment and promote prosperity.
The Hue Historic Citadel holds immense historical and cultural value. As the seat of the Nguyen Dynasty, it was the heart of political power, culture, and governance for over 100 years. The Citadel also housed many royal families, high-ranking officials, and religious leaders. It represents the peak of Vietnamese imperial architecture and serves as a symbol of the nation's royal heritage.
The ancient beauty captivates the hearts of many visitors (Source: Internet)
The Hue Historic Citadel is located within the city center of Hue, making it easily accessible by various means of transportation. Whether you're traveling from the local airport, train station, or bus terminal, getting to the Citadel is simple:
By car or taxi: You can take a taxi or use a ride-hailing app to reach the Citadel from anywhere in Hue. It’s a short ride from the main city attractions.
By cyclo: For a more traditional experience, hop on a cyclo for a leisurely ride to the Citadel.
By foot: The Citadel is within walking distance from many central hotels, so walking is a pleasant and scenic option.
Note: Once you reach the Citadel, visitors can either walk around the area or rent an electric car for 300,000 VND per vehicle (accommodating up to 7 people) for a one-hour tour.
Map of Hue Historic Citadel (Source: Internet)
The Imperial Enclosure, or Hoang Thanh, was the living and working space of the emperor and his court. The Enclosure is surrounded by a large wall and moat, with a series of gates providing access to different sections of the area.
The Ngo Mon Gate is the main entrance to the Hue Historic Citadel, located in the heart of the Imperial City. This grand gate, built during the Nguyen Dynasty in the early 19th century, is an iconic symbol of Vietnam's royal past.
The gate is a three-tiered structure, consisting of a central gate for the emperor and two smaller gates for the public. Its design combines Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influences, with intricate carvings, wooden panels, and decorative motifs.
Serving as the gateway to the Imperial Enclosure and Forbidden Purple City, the Ngo Mon Gate was used for royal processions and state ceremonies. It also symbolized the boundary between the emperor's private domain and the outside world.
Ngo Mon gate stands as one of the most important landmarks in Hue and provides visitors with a glimpse into Vietnam’s imperial grandeur (Source: Internet)
The Thai Hoa Palace, located within the Imperial Enclosure of the Hue Historic Citadel, is one of the most historically significant and well-preserved structures in the Citadel.
Built in the early 19th century, the palace was used for royal ceremonies and state functions. It was the place where the emperor would hold important events, such as coronations and court meetings.
The palace features intricate woodwork, a large central hall, and a grand entrance. It is adorned with royal symbols and decorative elements that reflect the power and status of the Nguyen Dynasty. The Thai Hoa Palace was where the Emperor of Vietnam met with his officials to discuss matters of state. It is also known for its cultural and ceremonial significance, with its large space used for official gatherings and festivals.
Known as the "Palace of Supreme Harmony," Thai Hoa was the official residence of the Emperor. The palace is beautifully adorned with intricate woodwork and royal symbols (Source: Internet)
The Forbidden Purple City is one of the most sacred and exclusive areas within the Hue Historic Citadel. Only the royal family and select high-ranking officials were allowed to enter. This area was the heart of the Nguyen Dynasty’s power, with its opulent halls and royal quarters.
The Dai Cung Mon Gate serves as the main entrance to the Forbidden Purple City, the exclusive part of the Hue Historic Citadel reserved only for the royal family and high-ranking officials. The gate is an architectural marvel, symbolizing the importance and power of the Nguyen Dynasty. Its design incorporates intricate carvings and decorative elements that highlight the Vietnamese commitment to artistry and craftsmanship during the imperial era.
Standing tall with imposing gates, the Dai Cung Mon was not just an entrance but also a ceremonial space where grand occasions, such as the Emperor’s processions, were held. The gate's location serves as a boundary between the public area of the Imperial Enclosure and the highly restricted area of the Forbidden Purple City. As visitors approach the gate, they are met with the awe-inspiring sight of the well-preserved structures, offering a glimpse into the grandeur of the royal court.
The gate opens the path to the residence of the Nguyen Dynasty kings (Source: Internet)
The Left and Right Vu Halls are integral parts of the Forbidden Purple City, representing the delicate balance between the spiritual and the political functions of the imperial court. These two halls were used for various official ceremonies and state affairs during the reign of the Nguyen Dynasty.
Ta Vu (Left Vu Hall): Traditionally, the left side of the court held ceremonies related to military matters. The left hall is where military officials would meet the Emperor for state matters, report military achievements, and discuss matters of defense.
Huu Vu (Right Vu Hall): In contrast, the right hall was dedicated to administrative functions. It was where civil officials presented reports, discussed governance, and participated in legal proceedings. The separation of the military and civil aspects of governance within these two halls symbolizes the complex and divided structure of the imperial government.
The halls are renowned for their striking wooden beams, carved decorations, and painted murals that reflect the power and grandeur of the Nguyen dynasty. These buildings embody the dynasty's sophisticated approach to governance, where both military and civil matters were handled with ceremonial precision.
The two halls hold many historical mysteries (Source: Internet)
The Can Chanh Palace is one of the most important and lavishly designed palaces within the Forbidden Purple City. It served as the official residence of the Emperor and was the center of daily royal life. The palace, built in 1833, is distinguished by its grandeur, with an expansive courtyard, a series of elegant halls, and richly decorated walls.
In the past, the Can Chanh Palace was the venue for significant events such as court rituals, official meetings, and royal family gatherings. The Emperors used this palace to issue royal decrees and conduct other political affairs, giving it both a ceremonial and administrative function.
Architecturally, the palace is a fine example of traditional Vietnamese imperial design, with ornate decorations, golden motifs, and carefully constructed wooden elements. Its construction reflects the height of Vietnamese craftsmanship during the Nguyen era.
Visitors to the Can Chanh Palace today can appreciate its grandeur and explore its well-preserved interior, offering a rare insight into the private world of the royal family (Source: Internet)
The Thai Binh Lau Pavilion is an iconic structure within the Hue Historic Citadel, located in the Forbidden Purple City. This pavilion served as the Emperor’s place of reflection, where he could meditate and enjoy serene moments away from the hustle of court life. It was also a location for important ceremonies, including those related to the Emperor's spiritual duties.
The Thai Binh Lau is an excellent example of Vietnamese architecture, characterized by its elegant wooden structure, decorative carvings, and tiered roof. The pavilion overlooks the beautiful surroundings, offering visitors a panoramic view of the Citadel’s grounds and gardens. The serene atmosphere of Thai Binh Lau makes it one of the most peaceful and tranquil spots within the Citadel, embodying the harmony and balance that the Vietnamese court sought in its spiritual and political life.
Today, Thai Binh Lau is a must-see for visitors to the Hue Historic Citadel, providing both a cultural and aesthetic experience. Its role as a place of meditation highlights the importance of spiritual practice in the Nguyen Dynasty’s royal court.
Thai Binh Lau Pavilion features a truly unique architectural style (Source: Internet)
Dien Tho Palace was one of the most significant and grand structures within the Forbidden Purple City, serving as the residence of the Empress and a place of political and spiritual activity. The palace was a symbol of feminine power within the Nguyen Dynasty, as it was not only the living quarters of the Empress but also a site where royal affairs related to the Queen and her court were conducted.
The Dien Tho Palace is renowned for its exquisite architecture, featuring intricate wooden carvings, beautiful tiled roofs, and an elegant courtyard. The palace’s design blends traditional Vietnamese architecture with influences from Chinese imperial styles, creating a harmonious space that reflects the power and elegance of the royal family.
Visitors to the Dien Tho Palace can explore its beautiful gardens and admire the fine details of its architecture. The palace stands as a testament to the role of the Empress in the Nguyen Dynasty, showcasing the importance of female figures in the royal court.
The most grandiose palace of the Nguyen Dynasty (Source: Internet)
The Kien Trung Palace is a key feature of the Forbidden Purple City, originally built as the residence of the Emperor’s eldest son. The palace was designed to house the heir to the throne and symbolized the continuation of the royal lineage. It is a place that once witnessed many important royal events, from private family matters to official court ceremonies.
Kien Trung Palace is known for its magnificent architecture, with an expansive courtyard and several intricately decorated rooms. The design of the palace reflects the importance of succession in the Nguyen Dynasty, with particular attention paid to the royal family’s future. The palace’s structural design blends traditional Vietnamese elements with influences from other East Asian cultures, making it an exceptional example of imperial architecture.
Today, the Kien Trung Palace is a part of the Hue Historic Citadel tour, offering visitors a glimpse into the royal family’s lifestyle and the succession system of the Nguyen Dynasty. The palace’s impressive design and rich history make it a standout location within the Citadel, adding to the allure of the Forbidden Purple City
Kien Trung Palace was restored from the ruined foundations (Source: Internet)
One of the most charming ways to explore the Hue Historic Citadel is by cyclo. The leisurely pace allows you to take in the sights and sounds of the ancient city, making for a relaxing and enjoyable experience. A cyclo ride around the Hue Historic Citadel typically costs around 100,000 VND to 150,000 VND per hour for a single passenger.
The cyclo service is reasonably priced (Source: Internet)
The tradition of serving tea at the palace is an invitation for visitors to relax and take in the serene surroundings of the palace, which was once the residence of the Empress. You can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while sipping on tea. The tea is often traditional Vietnamese tea, offering a taste of local culture while you take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the palace.
It's an enriching experience to enjoy the tea in this historically significant setting, and it adds a layer of cultural immersion to your visit to the Hue Historic Citadel (Source: Internet)
The Citadel is the site of many royal court festivals, especially during important national holidays. These festivals recreate the atmosphere of ancient Vietnam, with music, traditional performances, and rituals that celebrate the grandeur of the Nguyen Dynasty.
The Hue Historic Citadel shines with vibrant colors from traditional art performances (Source: Internet)
The Hue Historic Citadel takes on a magical charm at night. The soft illumination of the palaces and courtyards creates a serene and otherworldly atmosphere, perfect for a nighttime stroll through the ancient grounds.
The Hue Historic Citadel sparkles at night (Source: Internet)
The Hue Historic Citadel is not only a historical landmark but also a vibrant hub for shopping. Visitors can explore local markets around the Citadel, offering unique Hue specialties such as handcrafted incense, traditional conical hats, and delicious local snacks.
These products make for perfect souvenirs to bring home, capturing the essence of Hue's rich culture. Whether you're strolling through the Citadel or nearby markets, the shopping experience adds a delightful touch to your visit.
You can shop for Hue's special products such as sesame candy around the Hue Historic Citadel (Source: Internet)
To ensure you have an enjoyable and fulfilling experience at the Hue Historic Citadel, here are some important tips:
Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit the Citadel is between October and March when the weather is cooler and more comfortable.
Refer to a map: The Citadel is vast, so it's helpful to use a map or take a guided tour to navigate its many sections.
Dress code: Visitors should dress modestly when visiting the Citadel, especially when entering sacred areas like the Forbidden Purple City.
Photography: The Hue Historic Citadel is a photographer's paradise, with beautiful landscapes and architecture. Be sure to bring your camera and capture the stunning scenery.
While the Hue Historic Citadel is the main attraction in the area, there are several other notable sites you can visit nearby:
Hue National High School: One of the oldest and most prestigious schools in Vietnam.
Truong Tien Bridge: A beautiful bridge that spans the Perfume River, offering panoramic views of the city.
Thien Mu Pagoda: A historic pagoda located on the banks of the Perfume River, known for its unique architecture and spiritual significance.
Dong Ba Market: A bustling local market where you can purchase local specialties, handicrafts, and souvenirs.
Truong Tien Bridge is a symbol of Hue ancient capital (Source: Internet)
The Hue Historic Citadel is more than just a collection of ancient buildings – it is a symbol of Vietnam's royal heritage, a living museum that allows visitors to experience the grandeur and history of the Nguyen Dynasty. Whether you’re admiring the intricate architecture of the Imperial Enclosure or immersing yourself in the royal atmosphere during a festival, the Citadel offers a truly unforgettable experience. Don’t miss the chance to explore this historic gem when you visit Hue, and make sure to bring home memories that will last a lifetime.
To explore Hue Historic Citadel, book your Flight to Hue with Vietnam Airlines today! For more details on flights, baggage policies, and travel itineraries, contact Vietnam Airlines via their hotline at 1900 1100, or through Fanpage or Zalo for expert advice.
Passengers are required to have adequate travel documents for all flights on all concerned airlines and to abide by national laws and regulations. Vietnam Airlines does not take responsible if passengers are denied entry into any country.
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