Imperial Citadel: is Hue’s main attraction featuring a huge number of temples, museums, galleries, moats, walls, gates, and shops and is the main reason that visitors come to this town. Formerly the imperial seat of government, the Imperial Citadel was unfortunately largely flattened during the wars with the French and then the Americans, but much is being done to restore the complex and it remains a very peaceful area.
Ngo Mon: was built in the 1830s and is the main southern entrance to the Imperial Citadel. The elaborate central door and bridge were reserved for the emperor and views from the second floor of the courtyard are superb.
The Flag Tower: is the focal point of the Imperial City and was built by Gia Long in 1807. The yellow flag is a national symbol of royalty and was the first to fly here, yet was later replaced by successive rulers.
Tombs of the Emperors: located at various points along the Perfume River, the Tombs of the Emperors are Hue’s other big draw. Built during French colonial rule, these elegant tombs are best seen from the water on a river boat cruise and are mostly over 100 years old.
Tomb of Tu Duc: is one of the closest tombs to Hue at just 7kms away from the city. This huge complex features a lake, temples, wooden pavilions and various tombs, although the emperor's tomb is quite modest and resides at the back.
The Demilitarized Zone (DMZ): can be done on a day trip from Hue. This once scorched area received some of the heaviest shelling during the Vietnam war but is now green and peaceful.
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