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Rating Star

5 (107)

Location Icon Hue

Hue Imperial City Walking Tour: 3-Hour Guided Palace Visit

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Overview

Highlights

Sentiment Analysis

Overview

Quotes Logo The 3-Hours Hue Imperial Walking Tour with Guide lets visitors experience the most magnificent palace in Hue City, even with limited time. This walking tour explores the Hue Imperial Citadel (Hue Citadel, Hue Royal City & Forbidden City). It transports visitors back in time, with stories of 13 Emperors, concubines, and eunuchs shared by a professional guide.

Visitors can expect to see the Nine Holy Cannons, Ky Dai (Flag Tower), Ngo Mon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, Nine Dynastic Urns, The Mieu Temple, Forbidden Purple City, Royal Garden, and Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts. They will discover the historical and cultural significance of each landmark.

The tour includes bottled water and an excellent English-speaking guide. It excludes entrance fees for all attractions (The Citadel and Museum of Royal Antiquities: 250.000 VND), personal expenses, and tips. Quotes Logo

Highlights

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Explore the Imperial Citadel: See the heart of the Nguyen Dynasty's former glory.

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Expert English-Speaking Guide: Learn fascinating historical details and stories.

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Visit Key Historical Sites: Discover the Nine Holy Cannons and Forbidden Purple City.

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Small Group Option: Enjoy a more personal and immersive experience.

Sentiment Analysis

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Customers generally had a positive experience, praising the knowledgeable guides and well-organized tour. Some visitors were surprised by the extra entrance fees, and others wanted to spend more time exploring each location. Quotes Logo

  • Positive Highlight Icon Customers enjoyed the guide's knowledge and enthusiasm.

    Positive Highlight Icon Many visitors appreciated the in-depth historical context provided.

    Positive Highlight Icon The walking pace was comfortable for most participants.

    Positive Highlight Icon Travelers found the tour well-organized and informative.

  • Negative Highlight Icon Some found the entrance fees to be an additional unexpected cost.

    Negative Highlight Icon A few visitors wished for more time at certain sites.

The Journey

1

Nine Holy Cannons

Marvel at the Nine Holy Cannons, cast in 1803 during Emperor Gia Long's reign. These cannons are not weapons of war, but rather revered bronze artworks symbolizing the power and protection of the dynasty. Originally guarding the Imperial Citadel, they now stand as silent witnesses to Hue's regal past, showcasing the exquisite craftsmanship of Vietnamese artisans. Their intricate details and imposing presence offer a unique glimpse into the imperial court's artistic sensibilities and military might.

2

Ky Dai (Flag Tower)

Witness the grandeur of the Ky Dai, the Flag Tower, built in 1833 under King Minh Mang. This towering structure, designed in the traditional Vietnamese architectural style, once served as a vital communication hub for the Kings, facilitating troop movements and ceremonial announcements. It stands as a symbol of royal authority and offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Citadel, connecting visitors to the legacy of the Nguyen Dynasty's governance.

3

Ngo Mon Gate

Step through the imposing Ngo Mon Gate, the main entrance to the Imperial City of Hue, a masterpiece of Nguyen Dynasty architecture. Located within the Nam Chanh fortress, this gate served as the symbolic heart of the royal court, where the royal flag was hoisted. Admire its intricate details and envision the grand ceremonies and events that once unfolded within its walls, offering a powerful glimpse into the imperial court's prestige and power.

4

Thai Hoa Palace

Enter the magnificent Thai Hoa Palace, the coronation hall for 13 Nguyen kings, from Gia Long to Bao Dai. Located within the Imperial City, this Palace embodies the heart of feudal Vietnam, where emperors ascended to the throne and shaped the destiny of the nation. Explore its opulent halls and envision the elaborate ceremonies and momentous decisions that once resonated within these walls, providing a profound understanding of Vietnamese royal traditions.

5

Nine Dynastic Urns

Behold the Nine Dynastic Urns (Cuu Dinh), impressive bronze urns commissioned by Emperor Minh Mang and inaugurated in 1837, positioned in front of The Mieu Temple in Hue Imperial Citadel. Each urn is intricately decorated with carvings representing the empire's mountains, rivers, and symbols of power. These monumental urns symbolize the dynasty's enduring legacy and the emperor's desire for eternal reign, offering a compelling insight into Vietnamese imperial symbolism and artistic achievement.

6

The Mieu Temple

Visit The Mieu Temple, also known as The To Mieu, built in 1821 by King Minh Mang to honor the 10 Emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. This sacred temple stands as a testament to the dynasty's reverence for its ancestors and their contributions to Vietnamese history. Wander through its serene courtyards and admire the intricate architectural details, gaining a deeper appreciation for the Nguyen Dynasty's spiritual and cultural values.

7

Forbidden Purple City

Explore the Forbidden Purple City, once the exclusive domain of the Nguyen emperors, their queens, and concubines. This inner sanctum, located behind the Thai Hoa Palace, was the heart of royal life, secluded from the outside world. Stroll through the remains of this once-lavish enclave and imagine the daily lives of the imperial family, offering a unique glimpse into the inner workings of the Nguyen court and its intricate social hierarchy.

8

Royal Garden

Wander through the enchanting Royal Garden, a serene oasis within the Imperial City. Discover the residences of the Emperor's mother, the Royal Library, the Royal Lake, and the Royal Theater. This meticulously designed landscape offers a tranquil escape from the bustling city and provides a glimpse into the private lives and cultural pursuits of the imperial family, reflecting their refined tastes and intellectual interests.

9

Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts

Immerse yourself in the artistic heritage of Vietnam's imperial past at the Hue Museum of Royal Fine Arts, housed in a historic building in the former imperial capital. Admire an extensive collection of royal artifacts, artworks, and cultural treasures, including a dedicated section for the art of Champa. This museum provides a comprehensive overview of the artistic achievements and cultural influences that shaped the Nguyen Dynasty, offering a rich and rewarding experience for art enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Know Before You Go

This tour includes bottled water and an excellent English-speaking guide to enhance your experience. Please note that the entrance fees for all attractions (The Citadel and Museum of Royal Antiquities: 250.000 VND), personal expenses, and tips are not included. There is no specified pickup, drop-off or meet up location, check with tour provider for more details.

Hot Tip

Wear comfortable shoes, as this is a walking tour. Bring extra water, especially on hot days. Consider purchasing entrance tickets in advance to save time.

From $33 Price

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As a Viator affiliate partner, we may earn a commission on purchases made through our platform.