Situated along the so calm Huong River, Hue has originally been the capital of Vietnam during the rule of thirteen Nguyen’s Emperors (1802 to 1945). The powerful Nguyen family up and down in the political stage has undoubtedly turned the old Phu Xuan village into the once glorious Hue citadel. After 1945, Hue has no longer been the political focus, but the remains of the last feudalism have eventually highlighted this city on the Vietnam tourism map.

Hue is packed with citadels, temples, tombs, palaces and pagodas, which make the city a must-visit place for those who wish to, recall the past. The Royal Citadel – located on the north bank of the Perfume River – is constructed between 1804 and 1832 in consultation with the royal astrologers and geomancers. Should you are prosperous of time; there are seven tombs of seven emperors of Nguyen Dynasty for you to study about the personalities and ideology of the Emperor that each tomb commemorates. The tomb of Emperor Tu Duc (1860s) is beautifully landscaped and includes a lotus lake, pavilions and a small palace amongst pine groves. Emperor Minh Mang’s tomb (1840s) is also set in romantically landscaped surrounds. The tomb of Khai Dinh (1920s) is in an ornate building, which features Baroque and Vietnamese influences, and houses an intricate mosaic interior.

The garden houses, by far, are a unique feature of Hue. The houses are traditional, privately owned, and set in attractive formal gardens. Some have connections with the old Royal Imperial Court. Hue traditional architecture has long had close associations with the natural environment. The garden houses reflect this harmony, as each is highly individual - house and garden, people and scenery, plants, clouds and water co-exist and blend with each other in an agreeable context.

The narrow streets and abundant flora give the garden house area a country village feeling. For those of interest, Hue cuisine can be taught and served right there, with stories told by the house owners are worthwhile for a visit.

Those who find themselves interested in cuisine and gastronomy will sure be persuaded by the sensitiveness of Hue citizen in the way they prepare their food. Some may say it originates from the royal family, with all its sophisticated cuisines, then be simplified when they get out of the Palace’s wall to join normal life. Some may tell different stories about Hue’s distinctive cuisine, but all are for the fact that anyone who has tasted them once will have things in mind to remember. Moreover, Hue’s culinary traditions combine the influences of the presentation and delicate combinations of the former royal kitchens with a Buddhist tradition of vegetarianism. Local specialties include Banh Khoai, Banh Beo, Bun Bo Hue, Cha Tom, and Che Xanh Dua

Frequently be recommended as a place of charm and calm, Hue shuts down earlier than most other cities in Vietnam - by 9pm the streets are very quiet. Nevertheless, why not giving yourself some days in true tranquility in between your journey across different vibrant parts of Vietnam? Some may choose to spend an evening in a well-decorated teashop lies just by the Huong river, enjoy Truong Tien Bridge chances their colors in a very eye catchy way.

Others may be fascinated by the royal music (Nhã nhạc cung đình), performed elegantly on small boats along the river when the whole city is falling asleep.