Beyond a mode of transportation, the heritage train has evolved into a space where travelers can not only admire the scenery but also experience the region’s historical and cultural richness. Through the Hue - Danang journey, rail tourism is carving out a new path, where each trip does more than connect destinations; it creates experiences that leave lasting emotional impressions.

The 2021-2025 period can be regarded as one of the most extraordinary stages in the development history of Hue City. This was not merely a term of socio-economic development following a conventional trajectory, but rather a period of “running while lining up”: simultaneously coping with unprecedented shocks from the COVID-19 pandemic and global instability, while concentrating resources to realize the strategic goal of becoming a centrally governed municipality.

Hue is a land that bears the imprint of the southward migration and territorial expansion undertaken more than 700 years ago by the people of ancient Thuan Hoa. Very few documents reveal the timing of these migration waves or the organization and formation of Vietnamese villages in the region. Yet during fieldwork, I gained access to several ancient Han-Nom documents recording the migration, land reclamation, and establishment of villages and communes. Most notably is a cadastral record dating to the 9th year of the Dai Hoa reign (1451) under King Le Nhan Tong, compiled exactly 575 years ago.

Its tranquil atmosphere, unhurried pace of life, and poetic scenery have made Hue a favored destination for those seeking peace and serenity. Free from the noise and rush of modern life, Hue Ancient Capital seems to carry its own rhythm, slow enough for people to reconnect with themselves, yet gentle enough to soothe the burdens of everyday life.

We cordially invite readers to pick up Hue Today Weekly, Issue No. 72, or visit https://huengaynay.vn/xem-bao, starting from May 17.

“Vai nom tren cat” (Fish Trap Baskets on the Sand) or “Vai chai tren cat” (Fishing Nets on the Sand) is one of the activities staged by residents of Thuan An from the familiar movements of traditional fishing work. During every festival season in this coastal area, “Vai nom tren cat” becomes a vibrant source of spiritual and cultural enjoyment for local people and visitors alike.

While Hue Festival was previously held biennially, creating impressive “peak” moments yet remaining largely seasonal, with the model of a four-season Festival, Hue has now chosen a more sustainable direction: Turning culture and heritage into an ever-present rhythm within the city’s daily life.

Traditional culture is no longer unfamiliar to young people as the student group “Gen Z Ke Su” (Gen Z Tells History) from the Communication Technology major at FPT University Da Nang launched a media project titled “Co Vat Cung Dinh” (Royal Antiquities). The project uses modern technology applications to tell traditional stories.

No longer restricted to classroom settings, screen-based cooking instruction allows teachers to share culinary skills with learners anytime and anywhere.

Not only honored as one of the world’s leading romantic honeymoon destinations in 2026, Hue is also increasingly becoming attractive to international visitors thanks to its safety, friendliness, and rich cultural identity. These advantages are opening up strong prospects for the Ancient Capital’s tourism sector in attracting high-value international travelers.