“Half of the Vietnamese are in Hue” - a playful remark that has become a vivid expression of the strong appeal of tourism in the land of Huong River and Mount Ngu these days. Crowds are flocking to relic sites, pagodas, royal mausoleums, and eateries during the holidays, making the Ancient Capital more vibrant and lively.

Mossy temples, royal mausoleums, ancient pagodas and the beautiful scenery granted to the former capital city all together form an “urban poem.” And that beauty of Hue is even more gorgeous through eyes of talented painters.

In the years from 1930 to 1937, painter Mai Trung Thu was appointed to teach drawing at Quoc Hoc High School. Here, his talent blossomed. Series of his paintings were born, depicting gentle Hue girls, the charming scenery of the Huong river and the temples and royal mausoleums. His paintings in Hue rendered him a solid position in modern Vietnamese painting.