Hue Imperial City - Hue, Vietnam

Hue is a town located in Central Vietnam. Historically it was a national capital from 1802-1945. So I think it's only right if we visit the Citadel also known as Imperial City to learn about the history. It happens that our hotel was pretty close to it. We could actually walk there. Other than that, people also visit tombs of the emperors and pagodas. Those require a bit of travelling so we decided to skip.

It was a nice morning when we set out to walk there after our morning breakfast. Initially I wanted to time it so we could watch the changing of guards that happen at 8 am in the morning. But that was a bit early and I didn't feel like rushing. 😀

From our hotel, we walked towards the Perfume River. Traffic was heavy on the bridge, mainly motorbikes. Unlike Hoi An where there are many tourists on bicycle, here there were not any. I think because streets of Hoi An especially near the Old Town was mostly closed for local traffic. That way it's safer for even the not experienced cyclist.

Before we enter the compound of the Imperial City, we have to cross the moat on a narrow birdge shared with cars and motorbikes. At one point I was wondering whether there was an alternative way for pedestrians only. It didn't seem like it. But it was a short distance and the narrow street became normal size again.

As we stood there wondering which direction is the entrance, a man came over to us. He showed his badge as if to say he was an official. After a few minutes I realized that he actually belongs to the rickshaw group. He offered to take us to some other attractions near by, such as former home of Ho Chi Minh. But day was getting hot so we wanted to get inside the Citadel and complete the tour before it gets even hotter. 😅

Entrance to the Citadel require tickets that could be purchased at a kiosk by the entrance. Cost at the time was VND 200k/person. (USD 7.69). Once we had the tickets then we proceeded to the gate. Scan the ticket and we were in the court facing Thai Hoa Palace. Each side has lakes called Thai Dich Lake. There was a tour group there getting briefing about the palace.

We then proceeded to Thai Hoa Palace. It looked grand but seemed empty. I was hoping maybe more chairs or show some wax statue of how it would like when the hall was being used. Further down the hall there were photos display of how the hall was used. The history of the hall and some explanation of the meaning of the Chinese characters inscription found in the hall.

From there we walked across the vast compound of the Citadel. Passing through some buildings that were used by the officials last time. Now one of them is being used as gift shop and photo shoots. Visitors could rent costumes here and take photos. 

Towards the other end of the entrance is Ken Trung Pavilion. Last time it was used as residence of the emperor. At the time of our visit there was an art exhibition there. It's a pity that part of the building was covered by banner so we could not capture its beauty completely.