The Royal Tombs
Hue was Vietnam's ancient capital. The tombs of the emperors displayed the art and architecture of Vietnam. The royal tombs are located along the banks of the Perfume River.
Minh Mang
This royal tomb was the final resting place of Emperor Minh Mang, one of Vietnam's staunchest Confucians. Emperor Minh Mang sought balance in his rule, as exemplified by the balance among, design, architecture, and landscaping in his tomb.
The tomb has a stele pavilion, courtyards, gardens, and a temple along with statues that keep watch.
Emperor Minh Mang ruled from 1820-1840. The construction of his tomb started on the year of his reign but was still unfinished when he died. The construction continued during the reign of his son Thieu Tri. There are approximately 40 monuments in the tomb complex.
It was quite peaceful walking around the tomb complex. i was contemplating the meaning of life and my place in the universe as I walked through the gardens, JUST KIDDING! I took my time exploring the complex taking touristy photos while I was at it.
*There is an entrance fee of VND80,000 to enter the tomb.
Khai Dinh
Khai Dinh's tomb began construction in 1920 and finished construction in 1931. Like most emperors before him, Khai Dinh wanted to construct an elaborate mausoleum as his final resting place.
Khai Dinh became Vietnam's emperor in 1916. He worked closely with the french government which led to the belief that he was nothing more than a puppet.
The temple has a blend of eastern and western architecture, making it a unique structure and is the best tomb I've visited in Hue. The elaborate design and intricate details of the tomb made it look like a work of art.
Khai Dinh's tomb was finished by his successor Bao Dai when he died in 1925. The pictures and displays in the tomb gave me the impression that Emperor Khai Dinh was vain and wanted to prove that he was one of the best emperors.
*There is an entrance fee of VND80,000 to enter the tomb.
Thien Mu Pagoda
Thien Mu Pagoda is another noteworthy attraction that you must visit while in Hue. The pagoda is seven stories high and is the highest religious structure in Vietnam. The temple was constructed in 1601 but went through several refurbishing, expansions, and renovations over several centuries.
Several tourists both foreign and local visit the pagoda on a regular basis.
Hue seems like a laid back rural city, it did not come off as the former seat of power in Vietnam, but it is home to many historically significant monuments and has experienced many of Vietnam's historical moments and turning points. If you're a history buff, a visit to Hue in Central Vietnam is a must.
*I paid VND140,000 to go on a city tour that included the Thien Mu Pagoda, Khai Dinh and Minh Mang Tombs, and the Imperial City. You can rent a motorcycle for a day to do the tour on your own.