Amazing! That’s exactly how one would react while standing in front of the one and only spectacular Imperial Citadel in Hue. This place never ceases to amaze visitors because of its timeless architecture and beauty.
The construction was built under the reign of Emperor Gia Long in 1805 and completed in 1832 under the reign of Emperor Minh Mang. Spending hours walking through the citadel during the daytime, visitors are given a chance to learn and admire every piece of history and architecture about this place. Walking through the citadel not only gives an insight into the past but also an impression of its cultural value and influences to the present.
Since April 22, 2017, the Imperial Citadel is daily open for visitors from 7 to 10 p.m. Visiting the citadel at night is totally an unforgettable and unique experience. Unlike daytime when the stunning beauty of the citadel shines under sunlight, the moment when the night falls is the perfect time to explore its mysterious ambience.
With numerous performances illustrating different practices and ceremonies within the palace, visitors are welcomed on a journey to turn back the hands of time. The performances are scheduled daily from 7 to 9.30 p.m. at some specific locations, including:
- The Change of Guards ceremony at Ngo Mon gate
- Performance of Tieu Nhac (The Small Music) at the courtyard of Thai Hoa Palace
- Training of Martial Art for the Imperial Guards at the courtyard of Thai Hoa Palace
- Royal dance “Trinh tuong tap khanh” at Can Chanh courtyard
- Royal games at Can Chanh courtyard
- Performance of three instruments and Hue Chamber Music performance at the two octagonal buildings
- Performance “The Eight Immortals” at the courtyard of Truong Sanh residence
Ticket price for a visit at night is the same as day shift, 120.000 VND/ticket for Vietnamese visitor and 150.000VND/ticket for foreign visitor.
*Travel tips: If you already have the day ticket and wish to return again in the evening, before exiting the citadel at Hien Nhon gate, please ask for a 50% discount voucher for the night ticket at the security desk. Remember to keep and take the day ticket with you when using the voucher, as it might be required.
Are you heading to Hue anytime soon? Do not miss the chance to visit the Imperial Citadel at night and share with us your experience!
