Tu Duc Tomb: Explore a NOTABLE complex of architectural works in Hue

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Built under the era of Emperor Tu Duc in late 1864, Tu Duc tomb was intended to serve as the final resting place for its eponymous king. Despite the ravages of time, its elegance still shines through and captivates visitors’ hearts and souls. Tomb of Tu Duc offers an unforgettable experience that will transport you back to a bygone period of Vietnamese history.

1. Where is Tu Duc Tomb? How to get there?

• Opening hours: Everyday at 7 am – 5.30 pm (including holidays and festivals).

• Ticket fee: Discover entrance fees before visiting Tu Duc tomb Hue.

• • Adults: 150,000 VND per person.
  • Older adults (over 60 years old): 75,000 VND per person.
  • Children (between 7-12 years old): 30,000 VND per person.

These rates are applied for all visitors, regardless of nationality. Fees paid to get in the tomb are free on special occasions such as holidays (only with prior notice in writing or media). certain visitor groups may also be eligible for free or discounted admission. In addition, a 50% discount is available for those who are local visitors able to show valid identification.

Overall picture of Tu Duc mausoleum Hue Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Nested inside a peaceful valley, Tu Duc tomb is surrounded by an immense pine forest. The mausoleum is located in Thuong Ba hamlet, Thuy Xuan village, Hue, Vietnam, just 8 kilometers south from city center. Options to get here are varied to choose from such as pedicabs, taxis or motorbikes.

• For adventurous souls seeking to explore Tu Duc tomb map on their own, renting a motorbike is a great option. There is affordable parking available right next to the tomb, at only 4,000 VND per bike!
• But if you would rather sit back and enjoy the sights, a cyclo is the best to get around. With fares typically ranging between 30,000 VND to 80,000 VND depending on your starting location, the experience is well-worth. 

Some prominent features of Tu Duc mausoleum:

• Tu Duc tomb – the most beautiful tomb in the Nguyen dynasty’s tomb system.
• All other constructions start with “Khiem.”
• Minh Khiem temple – the only ancient theater in the tomb system.
• Floating pavilions constructed on water: Xung Khiem Ta (Xung Khiem floating pavilion – a place for the emperor’s rest, poetry recitation, and art enjoying) and Du Khiem Ta (Du Khiem floating pavilion – a boat station for the emperor‘s sightseeing on Luu Khiem lake) are two unique architectural constructions within the Tu Duc tomb and the complex of Hue monuments.

Xung Khiem Ta and Du Khiem Ta (Source: Collected)

• Khiem Cung inscription tombstone – the “top one”: Khiem Cung inscription is a writing with the highest number of traditional Chinese characters (4,935 characters on both sides) in Vietnam. It is also the largest and heaviest among other inscriptions in Nguyen dynasty tombs. This is the only inscription where an emperor wrote it for himself. In 2015, the Khiem inscription tombstone was recognized as a national treasure of Vietnam.

Khiem Cung inscription tombstone (Source: Collected)

2. Learn about the construction process of Tu Duc Tomb

In December 1864, construction of Tu Duc tomb began with the contribution of over 6,000 soldiers and workers. The tomb went through several names before being known as “Khiem Lang” until this day. Originally named “Van Nien Co”, meaning “an immortal building”, Tu Duc emperor estimated the time taken to complete Van Nien Co is six years.

However, in 1866, due to harsh weather conditions, hundreds of thousands of laborers rebelled under the leadership of Doan Huu Trung brothers. In an attempt to placate his people, Tu Duc changed the name from “Van Nien Co” to “Khiem Cung”. The name “Khiem” means “humble” and “Cung” means “palace”. By that, all structures bear the word “Khiem” in their names.

In 1873, Khiem Cung was officially completed. Ten years later, upon the king’s death, it was renamed “Khiem Lang” (Khiem tomb) and still stands today with its familiar name, “Tu Duc tomb”.

Portrait of King Tu Duc – a renowned monarch owning profound knowledge (Source: Collected)

3. Admire the special structure of Tu Duc Tomb Hue

Tu Duc mausoleum hue vietnam is a masterpiece of architecture with complicated designs and mountain-framed landscapes. It is considered one of the most beautiful tombs in the Nguyen empire. Divided into two parts, arranged parallel to each other, the palace area and the tomb area are the most logically-arranged parts. The front leans back against Giang Khiem mountain and the rear is covered by Duong Xuan mountain. The main frontal path is pristine Luu Khiem lake. 

This impressive construction complex spreads a total area of 12 hectares, consisting of 50 buildings in both areas and having the same word “Khiem” in their title. Do not miss out on the opportunity to look into Vu Khiem gate, Khiem Cung gate, Chi Khiem temple, Luu Khiem lake, Xung Khiem floating pavilion, Du Khiem floating pavilion, and Hoa Khiem palace!

Tomb of emperor Tu Duc view from the air (Source: Collected)

4. Explore the top outstanding works in Tu Duc Tomb

4.1. Khiem Cung Gate

Khiem Cung gate is a two-storey gazebo built on a high base, aligned with Du Khiem floating pavilion. It was used by the emperor as a resting place during his visits. In the center is Hoa Khiem palace, which was formerly the emperor’s working space. This palace these days is used as a place of worship for Tu Duc emperor and the queen.

The bridge over Khiem Cung gate (Source: Collected)

At Khiem Cung gate, it is common to release lotus flowers on the surface. During the blooming season, lotus’s fragrance spreads out through the air creating a sense of ease and peace. The lake has some small islands for planting flowers and raising animals. Surrounding Khiem Cung gate are Xung Khiem floating pavilion and Du Khiem floating pavilion. At this place, kings often sat to read, compose poetry, and enjoy the natural landscape full of the scent of wild grass and the sound of birds chattering to each other.

4.2. Luong Khiem Palace

Behind Hoa Khiem palace is Luong Khiem palace which was originally used as a place for the emperor’s rest and tea ceremony. Laterly, it became a worship place for the king’s mother, Tu Du. On the right is On Khiem Luong in which royal belongings are kept.

4.3. Minh Khiem Ancient Theater

The Minh Khiem ancient theater is the oldest theater among the four theaters built under the Nguyen dynasty. This theater used to serve Tuong drama as a means of entertainment for royalty and has kept a high artistic value in terms of architecture and decorative arts until now. 

Minh Khiem ancient theater – One of the oldest theaters in Vietnam (Source: Collected)

Minh Khiem ancient theater is one of the most impressive architectural structures in the mausoleum complex, featuring intricately carved pillars and striking decorative motifs. In the time the theater closed, from the outside, one can see an amazingly magical scene with numerous candles brightening the space up.

4.4. Tinh Khiem Islet

Tinh Khiem island is the emperor’s amusement land to plant flowers and raise animals. He would often come here to enjoy flowers, recite poetry, and read books when he felt tired of feudal affairs. In particular, Tinh Khiem island has a long canal with three bridges leading to a green and fresh pine hill.

4.5. The tomb area

Behind the emperors’ palace is Tu Duc mausoleum Hue. The first is Bai Dinh with two status rows of civil and military officials. The next is Bi Dinh, which is a 20-ton tombstone with the Khiem Cung inscription. Lying on Tieu Khiem Tri is the Buu Thanh made of brick. The center is the Tu Duc tomb. Another special area is Boi Lang, the resting place of king Kien Phuc – the 7th emperor of the Nguyen dynasty.

Bai Dinh with two status rows of civil and military officers (Source: Collected)

5. What to note for your visit to Tu Duc Tomb in Hue?

When you visit Tu Duc tomb, these are some tips to note in order to have the best experience:

• Prepare comfortable clothing, easy-to-wear shoes, and enough water to drink.
• Do not tread on or touch any objects without permission.
• Speak softly and avoid making noise inside the tomb.
• Absolutely do not litter, which can affect the landscape of the heritage site.

For a comprehensive travel experience, tourists should consider visiting Da Nang and Hoi An when traveling to Hue in Vietnam. Da Nang is the home of spectacular bridges, stunning beaches and a variety of outdoor activities. While you are in Da Nang, these destinations are a must-visit: Dragon Bridge, Architecture of Da Nang Cathedral, Nam O Fish Sauce Village, Linh Ung Pagoda, My Khe Beach, Cham Museum, ect.

Meanwhile, Hoi An has been well-known for its ancient architecture as well as the home of lantern-lit streets. After exploring Da Nang, you can pay a visit to the nearby Hoi An Ancient Town. Here, there are many attractions: Japanese Bridge, My Son Sanctuary, An Bang Beach, Cantonese Assembly Hall, ect.

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Tu Duc tomb is an important historical and cultural site in Hue, Vietnam. It is a stunning complex with unique architecture, beautiful gardens, and tranquil scenery. Visitors can learn about the life of Tu Duc and the construction process of the tomb, as well as explore the various structures and buildings inside the complex. With proper respect and behavior, a visit to Tu Duc tomb can be a memorable and enriching experience for anyone interested in history and culture.

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