Hue: Experience

Things are looking good for Thua Thien-Hue province. Rich in traditional and imperial heritage, the central province has developed to become one of Vietnam’s most popular cultural tourism centres.

In addition to Hue’s imperial relics recognised by UNESCO and Hue Royal Court Music, the province has more than 500 festivals.

The Hue Festival itself is held biennially on even years and the Hue Traditional Craft Festival is also held every other year. Both events have been an integral part of developing Thua Thien-Hue’s cultural tourism.

Traditional craft villages have also proved popular as visitors search for famous products at villages like My Xuyen (sculptures), Phuoc Tich (ceramics), Thanh Tien (paper flowers), Lang Sinh (traditional pictures), Phuong Duc (bronze casts) and Zeng A Luoi (weaving).

Visiting Hue, we have chances experience cultural and community based activities.

Tourists can experience the brilliant and legendary spirit of Hue festivals, enjoy a night at the Royal Palace and taste the amazing Hue royal cuisine. They can also see special products being made by locals, such as a handmade-wooden models of Thanh Toan tiled bridge and the paper lotus flowers of Thanh Tien Village.

Hue is most impressive when seen on a boat tour so people can enjoy the poetic beauty of the Perfume River and its banks.

It may also be possible to discover mysterious Hue by joining an ancient worshiping ceremony that has been recovered in the former Imperial capital of Hue. The ritual was intended to bring good weather, peace and prosperity for Vietnam. The ceremony is started at eleven in the evening and ends at eight o’clock the next evening. Hundreds of young soldiers in traditional red and yellow uniforms and conical hats stand solemnly holding torches, lances and swords on either side of the main altar.

Hundreds of elders in traditional long dresses and turbans stand in the front yard. The central altar is brilliant coloured with flags, lanterns, candles and torches.

The air is thick with incense smoke and the table laden with offerings.

Thousands of people come to watch but silence reigns until eventually music begins and the sound of a voice whispering prayers can be heard upon the wind.

The authorities in Hue revived this ceremony four years ago to preserve Hue’s religious heritage. There are also plans to seek recognition for the Xa Tac Offering Ritual from UNESCO.