Hue is a heritage city, but Hue’s cultural strength does not lie solely in its citadel, palaces, royal tombs, or historic architecture. Behind these tangible forms of heritage lies a vibrant world of music, festivals, beliefs, traditional crafts, cuisine, clothing, and folk knowledge. This is the ‘soul’ that gives Hue its distinctive identity.

As Da Nang rises to become a premier tourism destination with increasingly diverse and distinctive experiences, cultural events, festivals and community activities play an important role in creating the city’s unique appeal. Along this journey, HEINEKEN Vietnam and its Larue brand have consistently been active partners, contributing to the celebration of local identity, spreading pride in Da Nang and supporting the growth of the local tourism economy.

Beyond a celebration of Hue Beef Noodle, the iconic dish of the Ancient Capital, the Hue - Culinary Capital 2026 program has become a vibrant showcase of culinary excellence from across Vietnam. From Hue’s traditional flavors to regional specialties from every corner of the country, each food stall and every dish tells a story of Vietnam’s rich cultural identity, taking visitors on a journey that awakens all their senses.

After nearly a decade of sustained cooperation with Kanto International Senior High School in Tokyo, Japan, Hai Ba Trung High School in Hue City has developed a meaningful model of international exchange. Through classroom lessons, experiential activities, charity programmes and homestays in Japan, students from both countries have not only deepened their understanding of each other’s cultures but also broadened their intercultural awareness, strengthened their appreciation of cultural identity and fostered friendship between Vietnam and Japan.

On June 27, at the Ethnic Cultural House of Khe Tre Commune (208 Khe Tre Street), the People's Committee of Khe Tre Commune organized the Khe Tre Highland Market - Second session of 2026, themed “Agricultural Products Market”. The event aims to showcase local products, promote the consumption of agricultural products, and introduce the highland cultural identity to people and visitors.

Cultural industries, based on knowledge, creativity, identity, and technology, are emerging as one of the key growth drivers for many nations. In this context, placing culture at the center of development strategy - as expressed in the spirit of Resolution 80-NQ/TW dated January 7, 2026, of the Politburo on the development of Vietnamese culture - is not merely a political orientation but an inevitable imperative of the era. ​

More than just souvenir products, many heritage sites in Hue are being “refreshed” with products that showcase the distinctive cultural identity of the imperial court.

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.

As heritage cities around the world search for sustainable development models, the concept of a “living museum city” is emerging as a direction many localities aspire to. With its distinctive cultural heritage and unique identity, Hue has every potential to become a typical example of this model.

After Binh Ngo Lunar New Year 2026, Hue City has not only recorded impressive growth figures in its tourism sector but more importantly, a new approach is gradually taking shape: development rooted in cultural identity, organized with modern thinking, and placing the community at the center.