Vong Canh Hill
With a panoramic view of Hue's major attractions, Vong Canh Hill is the best place to take your Hue's photos.
Location
Standing at just 43 meters high, Vong Canh Hill is situated approximately 7 kilometers from the center of Hue, beside the gently flowing Perfume River. As you journey towards Tu Duc Tomb, Vong Canh Hill may initially appear unremarkable among the region's renowned attractions. However, this location is celebrated for offering the best panoramic views of the Perfume River. The name "Vong Canh" encapsulates its essence: "Vong" translates to watch or observe, while "Canh" means scene.
What To See
The surrounding area is rich with royal tombs, including those of King Tu Duc, as well as the tombs of Dong Khanh, Thieu Tri, and several queens. Complementing these royal monuments is the Hon Chen Temple, located nearby, where locals honor the Y-A-Na Goddess and Lieu Hanh Goddess. Together, these sites create an ideal backdrop for experiencing the ancient yet majestic allure of Hue.
Photo: bnttravel.com.vn
Visitors are often captivated by the picturesque villages lining the riverbanks, such as Huong Ho, Hai Cat, and Ngoc Ho, adorned with fruit orchards shaded by pine trees and small boats gliding quietly across the tranquil waters. From sunrise to sunset, the Perfume River enchants onlookers with its serene atmosphere and the soft transformations in color resulting from varying sunlight and sky conditions. Vong Canh Hill provides a stunning vantage point to appreciate these natural wonders and the intricate interplay of water hues.
Photo by @di_choi_la_di_choi
The hill itself is now adorned with pine trees and daisies. Although a purpose-built watchtower once crowned its summit, only remnants of its foundation remain today. Additionally, the Van Nien Water Plant, the oldest of its kind in Central Vietnam, features an Oriental-styled building designed by a French architect, located just 300 meters from Vong Canh. This site is also worth exploring.
When visiting Vong Canh, follow the guiding principle: watch the scene! While it may not offer conventional entertainment, it provides a perfect retreat for those seeking natural beauty and tranquility.
How To Get There
Vong Canh Hill is best visited as part of a broader tour of nearby tombs and pagodas. Recommended modes of transportation include motorbikes, bicycles, and cars, allowing for a flexible and enjoyable exploration of the area.
Useful Information
- Location: Vong Canh Hill, Hue
- Best for: Family, couple, solo
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: All hours
- Distance to city center: 4.8km (3.0 mi)
Tu Hieu Pagoda
In Hue - one of Vietnam's most sacred lands of Buddhism, Tu Hieu is regarded as the largest and oldest pagoda, and also a famous sightseeing spot with historical and cultural value.
Hon Chen Temple
Hon Chen Temple is situated on a lovely slope of Ngoc Tran Mountain, 10km upstream from Hue Centre. The name “Ngoc Tran'' means Pearl Bowl, originating from the bowl-shape of the mountain. That also gives the temple its name: Hon Chen.
Hue Imperial Citadel
Famously being one of Vietnam’s seven UNESCO World Heritage Sites, the Imperial City of Hue has long been a must-see attraction for tourists visiting a hidden charm of Vietnam.
