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Wandering for a Week in Hue – A Journey to Discover the Ancient Capital

7/7/2025 2:51:25 PM
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Quoc Hoc school
If you’re planning a trip to Hue, let the insights below guide you toward a more fulfilling experience. And if Hue hasn’t crossed your mind before, after reading this, you might just want to grab your backpack and set off immediately!
Quoc Hoc school

Hue – a land of ancient palaces, solemn royal tombs, and streets shaded by lush green trees. But Hue is more than just that. If you spend a week wandering here, you’ll uncover a different side of Hue: wild, serene, and full of enchanting little corners. From the hidden Vom Ca Bridge nestled amidst the mountains and forests to Hon Vuon, embracing the vast sky and clouds; from rustic eateries bursting with the authentic flavors of the ancient capital to narrow streets steeped in nostalgia.

Hue moves at a leisurely pace but is far from dull; it’s gentle yet captivating enough to hold any traveler’s heart. Over seven days, we explored, experienced, and felt Hue in our own way – slowly, to fully appreciate its timeless beauty. This article is not just a journey but a collection of emotions and unique perspectives on a Hue that feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

A Different Perspective on Hue

Once, on a journey from Da Nang to Hue, I paused at Hai Van Pass, where a solitary tree stood quietly amidst the vast sky and earth. From that vantage point, I watched a train glide slowly along the mountainside, with the deep blue sea on one side and the pristine, ancient forest on the other. Amid this breathtaking scenery, an old, elegant bridge emerged, nestled within nature like a perfect stroke in a traditional landscape painting.

At that moment, I found myself wondering, “Is there really a bridge this beautiful in Vietnam?” Years later, that image lingered in my mind, urging me to learn more, even though I never imagined I’d one day set foot there.

Then, one day, I returned to Hue – a land synonymous with solemn royal tombs and ancient palaces. But instead of visiting only the familiar landmarks, I decided to cross Hai Van Pass once more, this time to finally reach the bridge I had long dreamed of – Vom Ca Bridge.

7 Days in Hue – A Journey Through Timeless Memories

Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam, is a place where history, nature, and nostalgia intertwine. Over seven days, we wandered through its serene landscapes, historic landmarks, and hidden gems, each revealing a unique facet of this enchanting city. Below are the standout destinations that made this journey unforgettable:

Memorable Destinations in Hue

  • Vom Ca Bridge – A tranquil haven tucked amidst lush mountains and forests, offering a peaceful escape into nature.
  • Hon Vuon – A breathtaking vantage point where you can embrace the vast skies and clouds of Hue.
  • Minh Mang Tomb & Tu Duc Tomb – Majestic royal tombs showcasing the timeless elegance of the ancient capital.
  • Mat Biec Coffee – A nostalgic café steeped in the charm of Hue’s bygone era, perfect for reflective moments.
  • Ru Cha Mangrove Forest – A different side of Hue, with its serene greenery and tranquil ambiance.
  • Hai Duong Stone Embankment – Where the sea gently meets weathered, moss-covered stones, creating a poetic coastal scene.
  • Thuy Tien Lake – An abandoned amusement park shrouded in mystery, offering an eerie yet captivating experience.
  • Quoc Hoc Hue School – A historic institution exuding old-world charm in the heart of the city.
  • Turtle Rock (Hai Van Pass) – A quiet spot to pause and admire the stunning sea views from the iconic pass.
  • Lang Co – A paradise of turquoise waters and pristine white sands, perfect for beach lovers.

These destinations weave together a tapestry of Hue’s diverse beauty, from its cultural heritage to its natural wonders. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a nature lover, or a seeker of hidden gems, a week in Hue promises a journey filled with memories that linger long after you leave.

Hue Cuisine – Must-Try Dishes You Can’t Miss

Hue’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, blending tradition, creativity, and the soul of the ancient capital. From delicate rice cakes to hearty noodle soups, these iconic dishes capture the essence of Hue’s food culture. Here’s a list of must-try culinary delights that will leave your taste buds enchanted:

Unmissable Hue Dishes

  • Banh Beo, Nam, Loc Me Cai – Authentic Hue-style rice cakes, perfectly capturing the traditional flavors of the ancient capital.
  • Hot Vit Lon Um Bau – A unique boiled duck egg dish with a surprisingly delicious twist.
  • Banh Cuon Tom Chua Me Hanh (Kho Ren Bridge, open from 4 PM) – Flavorful shrimp-stuffed rice rolls with tangy fermented shrimp paste.
  • Banh Ep Chi Hue – Crispy, savory pressed rice cakes, a perfect street food snack.
  • Banh Mi Thuan Hung – Small but mighty, these sandwiches pack a punch of flavor.
  • Quan Com Chat – Homestyle rice meals that feel like a warm family dinner.
  • Bun Bo Me Keo (20 Bach Dang, 7–8 AM) – Iconic Hue beef noodle soup with rich, aromatic broth and tender meat.
  • Com Hen Hoa Dong – A rustic dish of clam rice, embodying the soul of Hue’s countryside.
  • Bun Mam Nem O Be – Noodle dish with bold, unforgettable fermented fish sauce.
  • Che Bot Loc Heo Quay Mo Ton Dich – A sweet glutinous rice dumpling dessert with roasted pork, a must-try delicacy.
  • Che Cam – Refined Hue-style sweet soups, showcasing the city’s delicate dessert tradition.
  • Bun Xuong Bo (186 Ly Nam De) – A rare beef bone noodle dish worth seeking out.
  • Banh Canh Nam Pho (16 Pham Hong Thai) – Thick rice noodle soup from Nam Pho village; come early before it sells out!

These dishes are more than just food—they’re a journey into Hue’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re savoring a bowl of bun bo at dawn or indulging in a sweet che in the afternoon, Hue’s cuisine will leave a lasting impression.

Tips for Visiting Hue

  • Weather: Hue can be quite hot, so bring a hat and sunscreen for protection.
  • Hon Vuon: Avoid using Google Maps for navigation; instead, park your vehicle at Huyen Khong Son Thuong and hike up from there.
  • Costs: Prices in Hue are not particularly cheap, and food portions are small, which may give the illusion of affordability.
  • Dining Hours: Many shops and eateries close early, so plan to eat before nightfall.

Hue – The Beauty of Serenity
To me, Hue is a city bathed in shades of green – the green of tree-lined streets, the lush grounds of royal tombs, and the tranquil rhythm of daily life. If you have the chance to visit Hue, take an early morning ride through its streets, watch the sunlight filter through the leaves, and feel the gentle pulse of the city. You’ll discover that Hue’s beauty is unique, quiet, and deeply captivating.

Photos by @phung_uit
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