Itinerary

1. Morning: A Cultural Odyssey through “Little China Old Quarter”

   • 8:00 AM: Begin your journey with a scenic bike ride across the iconic Trường Tiền Bridge, through the bustling Dong Ba Market, and over the picturesque Gia Hoi Bridge.
   • 8:30 AM: Take a moment to relax at the renowned PAPA Coffee House at 12 Bach Dang Street. Savour the rich aroma of Vietnamese coffee while admiring the exquisite collections of local artist Vĩnh Phối (45 mins).
   • 9:15 AM – 11:15 AM: Embark on a guided Walking/Biking Tour of the historic Chinese Old Town. Traverse the ancient streets and soak in the rich history that permeates every corner (120 mins).

   Visiting Sites:

   • 9:30-10:00: Step into the past at Chieu Ung Temple, a quintessential Chinese edifice in Hue. Located at 207 Chi Lang Street, the temple was erected in 1887 and pays homage to the 108 heroic spirits (30 mins).
   • 10:30-11:00: Discover the architectural marvel of Quang Trieu Assembly Hall at 223 Chi Lang Street. Built by the Cantonese community, the hall is a tribute to General Guan Yu, a symbol of loyalty, heroism, and integrity (45 mins).
   • 11:00 – 11:30 AM: Visit the Assembly Hall of the Fujian Chinese Congregation (Phuc Kien Pagoda), a grand edifice that stands next to Chaozhou’s Assembly Hall (Trieu Chau Pagoda) at 321 Chi Lang. The pagoda, built in the 7th year of Tu Duc (1854), worships Thien Hau, the Holy Mother, believed to be the reincarnation of Avalokiteśvara Bodhisattva, who aided merchants during tumultuous sea voyages (30 mins).
   • 11:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Experience the sweet nostalgia of Hue with Sesame-sprinkled candies of Thien Huong, a humble candy, is a delightful blend of sesame seeds, cassava flour, peanuts, and sugar, creating a chewy confection that marries sweetness with nuttiness. As you savour this treat, you become a part of Hue’s timeless tale (30 mins).

2. Lunch: A Culinary Delight

   • 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM: Enjoy a leisurely lunch at Bà Đỏ (Madam Red). Relish the Signature Dish or Local Specialty in a charming ambience.

3. Afternoon: A Glimpse into Hue’s Artistic Heritage

   • 2:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Visit an Art Gallery or Cultural Center. Admire local artwork or attend a short cultural performance.

   Exploring “Pháp Lam” (Painted Enamels) of Huế

   • 2:30-3:15 PM: Step into the enchanting world of Pháp Lam, an ancient art form that combines culture, craftsmanship, and vibrant beauty. Participate in workshops at Phap Lam Workshop, owned by Mr. Đỗ Hữu Triết, and witness the intricate process of creating Pháp Lam masterpieces firsthand. Visit Thái Hưng’s Pháp Lam Workshop at 66 Chi Lăng Street, where tradition meets innovation and the legacy of Vietnamese artisans thrives (45 mins).

   Unveiling Vietnam’s Ancient Currency Heritage

   • 3:15- 3:45 PM: Step into the world of Nguyen Anh Huy, a distinguished member of the Antique Currency Association of the USA. His meticulously curated collection of ancient Vietnamese currency spans centuries, from the Dinh dynasty in 970 to the Nguyễn dynasty in 1945. Each coin tells stories of emperors, merchants, and everyday life. Visit museums, exhibitions, or cultural centres to glimpse this treasure trove (30 mins).
   • 3:45 PM – 4:15 PM: Stroll through Trinh Cong Son Park and along the riverside. Visit the Musician Trinh Cong Son statue by the Perfume River banks and capture photos of the beautiful viewpoint (30 mins).

4. Evening: Sunset Cruise and Royal-Themed Dinner

   • 4:15 PM – 6:00 PM: Enjoy a sunset cruise from the upstream of the Perfume River to Thien Mu Pagoda. Take in the fresh air and beautiful view.
   • 6:30 PM – 8:30 PM: Embark on a “Royal Culinary Journey in Hue” at Tịnh Gia Viên/Ancient House/Ý Thảo Viên Restaurant/Ngọc Sơn Princess Garden House. Enjoy the Hue Royal Cuisine, a feast of delicate soups, savoury grilled meats, and aromatic herbs. Traditional court music, known as nha nhac, accompanies your meal. Dress in royal costumes and participate in a living heritage. As the sun sets, the palace gardens come alive with lanterns that glow warmly.
   • 8:30 PM: Return to the hotel by tourist van.