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Caption: Hue Imperial Citadel Central Vietnam
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Caption: Between the 16th and 18th century, the capital of Vietnam was in Hue city.
Several dynasties of kings ruled Vietnam from the Imperial Citadel. Modeled after Beijing's Forbidden City, Hue Imperial Citadel is indeed a smaller version of the Forbidden City.
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Caption: Much of the Imperial Citadel compound was destroyed during the war. Some of its regal furnishings were taken by the French during their occupation of Vietnam and remain there until this day.
Hue Imperial City is listed as one of UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
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Caption: This is the main entrance to the citadel today.
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Caption: You are greeted by canons upon entering the city gate. There are 5 canons on the left side, representing 5 elements of universe and 4 on the right representing 4 seasons.
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Caption: The King always moved within the yellow-colored section.
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Caption: Enter the gate to the King's palace.
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Caption: The King's Palace and the grand square. The high ranking officials and high army officials would gather in this square everyday.
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Caption: Unicorn is one of the 4 lucky animal signs in Vietnam beside dragon, phoenix, and turtle.
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Caption: To the left of this window was the King's kitchen. It was destroyed completely.
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Caption: Walking pass these red doors, you will find one of the best building in Hue Citadel - the Opera House.
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Caption: The garden by the side of Opera House
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Caption: The interior of the Opera House. Stunning!
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Caption: The courtyard outside the Opera House. It leads to East Gate exit of the Imperial City.
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Caption: The King's study & library.
Caption: Behind the King's library lies the prettiest lotus pond. They said it was built to provide serenity & tranquility for the King so he wouldn't be too stressed.
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Caption: I want to stand here forever! I'm sure this amazing view could cure any stress.
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Caption: Another door from the King's library leads to this gate. Absolutely grand, isn't it?
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Caption: The East Gate exit of the Imperial City. I had to touch the walls as the details are magnificent.
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Caption: See the 3-dimensional details of the gate ornaments. Amazing craftmanship.
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Caption: I couldn't stop marveling at how pretty their lotus ponds are.
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Caption: Our visit to the Imperial Citadel was completed with a lunch affair fit for the King himself.
The menu is actually adapted from the real royal cuisine menu. Not only were they presented beautifully, everything was absolutely delicious!
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Caption: The presentation of Vietnamese Spring Rolls.
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Caption: The subtle savory of vegetable soup.
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Caption: The royal Grilled Prawns, grilled to perfection.
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Caption: Hue Pancake. Really unique!
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Caption: The steamed lotus rice. This one is especially good, my favorite!
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Caption: Some travelers said Hue Imperial City is for history purist only. I disagree. Whether you embrace world history or not, this place will charm you.
Thanks for reading. Until the next trip!
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