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| The “Mystical Imperial Palace” promising to bring novel emotions and experiences to tourists |
The program is a highlight of the Summer Festival “Shining Citadel”, aimed at refreshing the experience of exploring heritage sites at night. Meticulously staged, “Mystical Royal Palace” recreates the ambiance of the ancient royal court through a fusion of traditional arts and modern technology.
The program begins with the guard-changing ceremony at Ngo Mon Gate, enhanced by simulated royal cannon fire, marking the official opening of the Imperial Palace at night. Visitors are then guided into a luminous setting, where torch-lit pathways and a 3D mapping showcased at Trung Dao Bridge set the scene before they continue onward to the courtyard of Thai Hoa Palace.
This is followed by a graceful lantern dance performed by royal maidens, gently leading audiences into the courtyard of Thai Hoa Palace. At this central stage, a dramatized royal audience ceremony brings to life the solemn and majestic atmosphere of the Nguyen Dynasty court rituals. To the east, a vibrant military showcase unfolds, featuring troop deployment reenactments and imperial guard drills with traditional martial arts performances, flag dances, staff routines, spear and archery displays, heightened by striking fire effects that underscore the formidable presence of the royal army.
Meanwhile, on the western side, a royal marketplace comes alive, offering visitors an immersive cultural setting with interactive experiences that evoke the daily imperial life.
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| Tourists experiencing royal games |
Beyond its main highlights, the program also features a range of immersive experience zones, including royal court games, a showcase of Hue’s ao dai blended with Hanbok, a virtual reality journey titled “In Search of the Lost Imperial Palace,” and themed spaces such as “De do Khao co ky” (Imperial Archaeology Chronicles)…
Ahead of the evening program, from 5:30 p.m. daily, the Ancient Capital food court at the Royal Treasury Palace will welcome visitors with a variety of dining options. The service runs from April 24 to May 2, with buffet service (ticketed) available on April 26, 28, 30 and May 2, while on other days guests can choose from set menus or à la carte offerings.
Mr. Le Cong Son, Deputy Director of Hue Monuments of Conservation Center, informed that the exemption of entrance tickets aims to create favorable conditions for locals and tourists to access and experience the heritage space in a new way, thereby spreading Hue Ancient Capital’s cultural values in contemporary life.
Also on this occasion, within the framework of Hue Festival 2026, a wide range of notable activities will also take place, promising a vibrant festive season throughout April for both residents and visitors. These include Hue Nam Temple Festival held on April 18-19; an exhibition of orchids, ornamental plants and rock art from across the three regions held at Hue Imperial Citadel from April 24-28; “Thuan An - The Call of the Sea 2026” program; “Photo Tour” initiative; a creative program and exhibition on French architecture and historical sites in Hue; Reading Culture Festival “Lighting Dreams”; “Hue of Love” book fair; and VNExpress Marathon Hue…