When mentioning Hue, people might immediately think about the image of the Huong River flowing slowly, embracing the streets and rows of green trees. The clear water flows like a soft silk strip at the foot of Ngu Binh Mountain, reflecting the blue sky every morning and the purple sunset at dusk. The Huong River brings a poetic vibe and becomes the symbol of Hue City. Let’s explore the charm of Huong River in the article below!
An Overview of the Huong River
The Huong River is a charming feature that embellishes the ancient and quiet beauty of the ancient capital. It is this beauty that makes every visitor fall in love.
Where is the Huong River?
The Huong River is located in the central region of Vietnam. It flows through Hue and has become the icon of the ancient capital. The Huong River is about 80 km long and originates from the two main branches, Ta Trach and Huu Trach, on the Truong Son Mountain Range. These two branches meet at the junction of Bang Lang, creating the Huong River, which flows through Hue City before pouring into Tam Giang Lagoon and finally the East Sea.
On its journey, the Huong River flows through many famous landmarks such as Thien An Hill, Ngu Binh Mountain, Thien Mu Pagoda, and Hue Citadel, creating poetic landscapes rich in cultural and historical values. In particular, thanks to its slow flow, clear water, and lack of alluvium, the Huong River always retains its gentle, elegant beauty throughout the four seasons.
An overview of the Huong River on map
The cultural and historical importance of the Huong River
Not only a natural masterpiece, the Huong River is also a historical witness and cultural symbol of the ancient capital. From the Nguyen Dynasty, it has been associated with loyal ceremonies, solemn festivals, and the daily lives of the people. Today, along both banks of the river, you will see local people leisurely walking, exercising, or simply sitting and watching the flowing water. During the festival, the Huong River even becomes more vibrant with shimmering flower lanterns, turning the water surface into a magical picture. If you have the opportunity to visit Hue, do not forget to spend time by this river to feel the peaceful beauty and poetry that the Huong River has preserved for generations.
Why is the river named Huong (Perfume)?
When first hearing the name Huong (Perfume) River, many tourists find it’s an interesting name. So, why call the river this name? The name of the Huong River comes from a legend related to the fragrance of water. According to folklore, the upstream of the Huong River flows through thousands of primeval forests, where there are many precious flowers emitting fragrance. The water carries this fragrance, and when it flows towards the plain, it is everywhere, creating a pleasant aroma that attracts people’s hearts. Due to this reason, ancient people named this river Huong Giang, meaning fragrance.
Beautiful flowers along the Huong River
Furthermore, some researchers believe that this name also has cultural significance, symbolizing the elegant, gentle beauty of the river, like the character of the Hue people. Regardless of the explanation, the Huong River is always associated with poetry, and lyricism and is an indispensable symbol of the ancient capital of Hue.
Things to do in the Huong River
To fully enjoy the beauty of the Huong River, visitors should take a leisurely time and slowly feel this charm. Here are some suggested activities you should do during your visit to the Huong River.
Watch a beautiful sunset on Truong Tien Bridge
If you ask me what is the must-do activity when visiting Huong River, I would suggest without hesitation watching the sunset on the Truong Tien River.
Beautiful sunset on Truong Tien Bridge
Sunset is the most beautiful moment of the day in Hue. As the sun gradually sets behind the distant mountains, the whole sky turns a gentle purple-pink, reflecting on the sparkling river. Crossing the hundred-year-old Truong Tien Bridge and admiring this scene, you will feel somewhat your heart slow down to the rhythm of the flowing water. If you come to Hue, take some time to watch the sunset here; we are sure you will not regret it!
Drifting on a dragon boat & listening to Hue folk songs
An evening in Hue would not be complete without a cruise on the Huong River and listening to Hue folk songs. You should board a dragon boat, lean against the side of the boat, and let the water carry you away. When the sound of the zither plays, the space becomes quiet, with only piercing music and slight waves crashing. The melody of Hue will make you feel like you are immersed in an ancient painting, with the king of the Nguyen Dynasty enjoying music on this river.
At the end of the music night, you should release a flower lantern into the water, close your eyes, and make a wish. This might bring you a special feeling that the moment is incredibly peaceful, gentle, and somewhat nostalgic.
Drifting on a dragon boat & listening to Hue folk songs
Cycling along the banks of the Huong River
Early mornings in Hue are different: no noise, no rush, just quiet streets and a gentle river flowing quietly. We recommend renting a bicycle and following Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street, where there are rows of shady green trees along the riverbanks. The cool early morning breeze carries the sweet scent of grass and trees, which will make you freshen up for the whole day. On the way, you will see old people sitting leisurely doing exercise and street vendors setting up their shops with rustic breakfast dishes. That peaceful and slow feeling will help you find peace of mind.
Cycling along the side of the Huong River
Savor local cuisine on the riverside
It is a huge mistake to explore the Huong River without trying to eat local food! Along the river, there are several local restaurants; we recommend trying a bowl of bun bo Hue (hot Hue beef noodle soup). Just sniffing it, you can feel the aroma, and when you take the first bit, you will definitely fall in love with this dish! In addition to bun bo Hue, you can try banh beo, banh nam, banh khoa, or simply sit and sip a cup of royal tea, watching the river flow and enjoying the peaceful atmosphere of Hue.
Hue local cuisines
Float flower lanterns
For a more romantic and spiritual experience, you can try floating flower lanterns on the Huong River. You just need to buy a small lantern, light it with warm yellow candlelight, and gently place it on the water. Hundreds of other lanterns are also floating along the river, creating a magical, shimmering strip of light. Amid that scene, you will feel that all your concerns, like those lights, are gently drifting away with the water. This is a very special and meaningful experience!
Shimmering flower lanterns on Huong River
Some helpful tips
To have the best time visiting the Huong River, we provide you with some helpful information below:
The best time to visit Huong River
It is fair to say that Hue has a year-round beauty; each season offers its own charm. However, if we had to choose the best time to visit, we would say the period from January to April. During this time, Hue experiences cool weather with gentle sunlight and minimal rainfalls, ideal for outdoor activities like visiting the Huong River.
If you are into the romantic beauty of Huong River, let’s visit from September to November, when it’s cool and the sunset on Truong Tien Bridge covers the sky with purple color. From May to August, the weather is quite hot but ideal for participating in the Hue Festival. You should note that the time from October to December since you will deal with heavy rains and flooding.
How to get to Huong River?
To get to the Huong River as well as visit famous attractions nearby, you can opt for the transportation below:
Walking
If you stay in the city center, particularly the area near the Truong Tien Bridge, you can definitely walk to the Huong River. The roads along the river, such as Nguyen Dinh Chieu Street or Le Loi Park, are suitable for walking and admiring the peaceful scene.
Bicycle
Another chilling travel is transportation. You can rent a bicycle at the hotel or shops near the walking street. Cycling along the river in the early morning or late afternoon is a great experience.
Cyclo
Cyclo is a typical means of transportation in Hue, helping you move slowly, watch the streets, and enjoy the peaceful pace of life in the city. The price for a cyclo is quite reasonable, and you can negotiate with the driver before getting on the vehicle.
Go cyclo in Hue
Taxi/Grab
If you are further away, you can easily catch a taxi or book a Grab/Xanh SM car to the Huong River. This is a quick and convenient way, especially when you have luggage or are traveling in a group.
Motorbike
If you like to be proactive, renting a motorbike is the best choice. It only takes about 5-10 minutes to move from the central areas to the banks of the Huong River. You can combine visiting Thien Mu Pagoda, the Imperial Citadel, and riverside spots in a complete trip.
Dragon boat
For a unique experience, you can take a dragon boat from Toa Kham Wharf or Thien Mu Pagoda Wharf. This is a great choice in the afternoon or evening, combined with listening to Hue folk songs on the river.
Some famous tourist destinations nearby
You can easily get to famous tourist destinations from the Huong River, combining sightseeing and natural and cultural exploration. Below are some unmissable destinations:
Hue Imperial City
Located right on the banks of the Huong River, Hue Imperial City is the heart of the ancient capital, once the place where the Nguyen Dynasty kings lived and worked. When passing through Ngo Mon, the majestic royal gate, you will feel like you are lost in another world, where ancient palaces, moss-covered tiled roofs, and brick walls stained with time tell historical stories.
Imperial City in Hue
Thien Mu Pagoda
For those who love the spiritual atmosphere, Thien Mu Pagoda would be a great place to go. Located on Ha Khe Hill, right on the bank of the Huong River, Thien Mu Pagoda is one of the most ancient and sacred pagodas in Hue. From afar, you can recognize Phuoc Duyen Tower, a soaring seven-story tower, considered the symbol of the pagoda. Stepping inside, you will feel the peaceful space with curved pagoda roofs and shady green trees. Notably, this place also preserves the car of Venerable Thich Quang Duc, who burned himself to death to protest the religious repression regime in 1963. From Thien Mu Pagoda, looking down at the Huong River, you will see the water flowing slowly, reflecting the blue sky.
Thien Mu Pagoda
Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street and Le Loi Park
If you want to find a place to walk and enjoy the breeze and peaceful space, Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street and Le Loi Park are the perfect choices. Located right on the banks of the Huong River, this street is shaded by green trees, very suitable for walking or relaxing. You can also ride a cyclo, enjoy snacks such as Hue sweet soup, banh beo, and banh nam, or simply find a small café, sip a cup of royal tea, and watch the river flow. In the evening, the walking street becomes more bustling with street art activities, locals and tourists together enjoying the joyful, gentle atmosphere.
Nguyen Dinh Chieu Walking Street
Toa Kham Wharf and boat ride on the Huong River
One of the best ways to explore the Huong River is to board a dragon boat, drift along the water, and enjoy Hue folk songs. At Toa Kham Wharf, you can choose a daytime cruise to enjoy the scenery or an evening cruise to immerse yourself in the traditional art space. In addition, you can also participate in releasing flower lanterns, a meaningful experience when sending wishes to the sparkling lanterns floating on the water.
Toa Kham Wharf
In conclusion, the Huong River is the lyrical symbol in the heart of Hue City. Not only a river, the Huong River also has cultural and historical value and is the pride of the Hue people. If you come to Hue, you must definitely visit the Huong River, immerse yourself in the slowly flowing water, and find peace in your soul. For further information, please contact us; our dedicated experts are willing to help at any time!
Read more:
