Cycling in Hue: Citadel, Perfume River, King Tombs, Traditional Villages

The Hue Citadel is an ancient fortress located in the former capital of Hue. It served as the primary residence and administrative center of the Nguyen Dynasty—the final feudal dynasty of Vietnam.

Founder: Emperor Gia Long (the first monarch of the Nguyen Dynasty).
Construction Timeline: Surveying and planning began in 1803. Large-scale construction officially commenced in 1805. It took nearly 30 years to complete the entire complex, finally finishing under the reign of Emperor Minh Mang.

1. Why Hue was Chosen?

Emperor Gia Long’s choice of Hue was not random; it was a calculated decision based on strategic positioning and Feng Shui principles:

Feng Shui (The "Mountains and Waters" Alignment):
- Perfume River (Song Huong): Serves as the "Minh Duong" (the open space in front to gather vital energy).
- Ngu Binh Mountain: Acts as the "Tien An" (a natural protective screen in the front).
- Hen and Da Vien Islets: Represent the "Left Blue Dragon and Right White Tiger" (the armrests of a throne protecting the citadel).
Geopolitics: At the time, Hue was situated in the center of the country, making it the ideal location to govern both the North and the South efficiently.

2. The Nguyen Lords in Thuan Hoa (Hue)

Long before it became the Imperial Capital, the foundation of this land was laid by the Nguyen Lords during the "Dang Trong" (Inner Realm) period. There were nine prominent Lords:

Nguyen Hoang (Lord Tien) – The pioneer who first settled the region.
Nguyen Phuc Nguyen (Lord Sai)
Nguyen Phuc Lan (Lord Thuong)
Nguyen Phuc Tan (Lord Hien)
Nguyen Phuc Thai (Lord Nghia)
Nguyen Phuc Chu (Lord Minh)
Nguyen Phuc Chu (Lord Ninh)
Nguyen Phuc Khoat (Lord Vu)
Nguyen Phuc Thuan (Lord Dinh)

3. Iconic Architectural Landmarks

The architecture of Hue is a unique blend of traditional Vietnamese imperial style and Western military influences (specifically the Vauban fortification style).

Inside the Citadel

Ngo Mon (Noon Gate): The largest main entrance to the Imperial City, used for significant royal ceremonies.
Thai Hoa Palace (Palace of Supreme Harmony): The site of the Emperor's throne and the symbol of the dynasty's power.
The Forbidden Purple City: The private area reserved exclusively for the Emperor and the royal family.

Outside the Citadel

The Royal Tombs: Each Emperor designed a tomb reflecting his own personality (e.g., the solemn Minh Mang Tomb, the poetic Tu Duc Tomb, or the intricate Khai Dinh Tomb).
Thien Mu Pagoda: An ancient temple and a spiritual symbol of Hue.
The Nine Holy Cannons: Nine monumental cannons symbolizing the protection of the kingdom.

The Perfume River has two main sources originating from the Truong Son Mountain Range. The Left Bank (Ta Trach) is about 67 km long, flowing through Bach Ma National Park and Nam Dong town before meeting the Right Bank (Huu Trach) at the Bang Lang junction.

The Right Bank is about 60 km long. Both banks meet to form the Perfume River (Huong River). You can choose cycling along the Perfume River in Hue to Hoi An to enjoy some of the best rural scenery after taking the Tuan Ferry.

"Hen Islet" in the middle of the Perfume River

The river flows very slowly because its water level is nearly at sea level. As it flows along the foot of Ngoc Tran, the water remains greenery—this area is known as Hon Chen (Bowl Islet). It offers a deep, scenic area for cycling enthusiasts.

Listed as one of the most beautiful rivers in Vietnam since 1987, the Perfume River winds through traditional villages like Kim Long, Nguyet Bieu, and Vy Da. It is a centerpiece of local culture where tourists can sail while listening to traditional Hue folk songs.

The reflections of citadels, pagodas, and temples on the water bring a poetic musicality to the river. Many visitors find tranquility in the elegant scenery while Cycling Along The Perfume River in Hue.