Discovering Hue’s Royal Tombs

A getaway to Central Vietnam would not be complete without visiting Hue’s royal tombs. Situated along the banks of the Perfume River, these tombs are the elaborate resting places of the Nguyen Dynasty emperors who ruled Vietnam from 1802 to 1945. With a variety of ornate gates, statues and temples to explore, Hue’s royal tombs are a must-visit attraction for families seeking an enriching day trip.

Located in Lăng Cô Bay, Angsana Lăng Cô resort offers a base from which to explore the royal tombs and other Hue attractions. Create cherished memories with your loved ones in this idyllic paradise, where unique experiences await at every turn.

Historic riverside shrines

Hue’s imperial tombs are set near the Complex of Hue Monuments, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in and around Hue in Thua Thien Hue province. Once the capital of a unified Vietnam in the 19th century, Hue was the country’s political, cultural and religious centre under the Nguyen Dynasty, the last royal dynasty in Vietnamese history.

At the centre of the complex is the Hue Citadel area, which holds the Imperial Residence, the Imperial City and the Forbidden Purple City. Beyond these central structures lay several other important monuments, including the Temple of Literature, the Temple of the Roaring Elephant and the Celestial Lady Pagoda. Further upstream along the Perfume River in Hue lie the emperors’ tombs, each meticulously designed to reflect the emperor’s legacy.

Ancient emperor resting places

For families travelling to Central Vietnam, visiting Hue’s royal tombs offers an educational journey through the country’s imperial past. Children can learn about the Nguyen Dynasty emperors and their legacies, as well as how historical sites like the Complex of Hue Monuments shaped the nation.

Planning your visit to Hue’s royal tombs ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for you and your family. Below are some tips to help you prepare for your day trip:

• Visit early in the morning – Arriving early allows you to avoid the intense midday sun and explore the tombs at your leisure without large crowds.
• Be prepared for walking – Many tombs have stairs and expansive grounds, so wear comfortable shoes, opt for breathable fabrics and pack light. Bring essentials – Ensure a comfortable trip by bringing water, snacks and sun protection such as hats, sunscreen and sunglasses.
• Dress modestly – The tombs are sacred spaces, so show respect by dressing modestly. Avoid revealing clothing such as shorts and sleeveless tops.
• Consider a guided tour – While self-exploration gives families travelling with children more flexibility, guided tours offer valuable insights into the history and significance of the tombs. Choose the option that best suits your needs.

International cuisines for all tastes

For an even richer experience, savour authentic Hue and Vietnamese dishes at nearby restaurants, including banh beo (steamed rice cakes), banh khoai (rice pancakes) and nem ran (fried spring rolls). Some venues with outdoor seating even feature traditional dance performances and live music in the evenings.

After a day of exploration, refresh your senses with a relaxing treatment at Angsana Spa and visit Angsana Gallery for unique souvenirs and handicrafts to take home. End the day with a delicious dinner at one of Angsana Lăng Cô’s four restaurants, featuring a range of international cuisines for all tastes.