Khai Dinh Tomb: Things to know about the last imperial tomb built in Hue

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Khai Dinh tomb Hue, the final architectural masterpiece of the Nguyen empire, is one of the most stunning ancient constructions in the Hue mausoleum system. This building impresses visitors with its fusion of different old-day foreign architectural styles. For those seeking a glimpse into Vietnam’s rich history and culture, do not miss out on visiting the tomb of emperor Khai Dinh.

1. About Khai Dinh Tomb Hue Vietnam

Tomb of emperor Khai Dinh is located in Thuy Bang commune, Huong Thuy district, Thua Thien Hue province. The entire structure was founded on Chau Chu mountain, about 10 kilometers from Hue city center.

Khai Dinh tomb Hue Vietnam is an attractive tourist destination (Source: @chuymxanh)

Khai Dinh tomb in Hue is a remarkable cultural heritage site that preserves numerous historical and cultural values. This is the clearest evidence of intercultural beauty made by the harmonious blend of Vietnamese and Western design styles. The road to this rectangular-shaped tomb consists of 127 steps, starting with 37 steps leading to the Tam Quan gate. The following are the Nghi Mon gate and Bai Dinh courtyard. At the top is 2 yards spacing out a 13-step distance, with the highest being the Thien Dinh palace.

Khai Dinh tomb view from the air (Source: Collected)

The combination of the Asian and European architectural styles in a harmonious way creates a unique signature for Khai Dinh tomb Vietnam. The intersection of classic and modern elements, along with the surrounding natural landscape, has produced an epic and picturesque scene at Khai Dinh tomb in Hue. 

2. The excellent architecture of Khai Dinh Tomb

The overall structure of Khai Dinh tomb is a rectangular-shaped soaring 127 three-step staircases, centered around the Thien Dinh palace. The structure was built on the base of nature following feng shui principles.

In comparison to the tombs of previous kings, Khai Dinh tomb has a much more modest area, measuring 117m x 48.5m. Despite the smaller size, Khai Dinh tomb’s decorative patterns are extremely sophisticated and time-consuming. Materials to build the tomb include imported iron, steel, cement, and Ardoise tiles from France and porcelain and colored glass from China and Japan transported on the hilltop.

The architecture of Khai Dinh tomb does not adhere to any certain architectural style but is a bold combination of many architectural styles from India, Buddhism, Gothic to Roman, specifically:

• The gate towers are from Indian architecture.
• The decorative stupa columns embody Buddhist elements.
• The surrounding fence resembles crucifixes.
• The stelae area, along with octagonal columns and door arches, are designed in the theme of the Roman style.

Khai Dinh tomb Hue Vietnam’s decorative patterns are extremely sophisticated (Source: Collected)

3. What are the major highlights of Khai Dinh Tomb?

3.1. The three-arched-entrance gate (Tam Quan Gate)

Tam Quan gate, located on the first level of the tomb, consists of two main structures, Ta Tong Tu (Tong temple on the left) and Huu Tong Tu (Tong temple on the right). This three-entrance gate is used as a workshop space for meritorious officials for their contributions to their nation. To approach this gate, visitors are required to climb 37 steps out of a total of 127 steps.

3.2. Nghi Mon Gate and Bai Dinh Yard

The following 29 steps will lead to Nghi Mon gate and Bai Dinh yard. Here, you will be amazed by the two symmetrical rows of civil and military official statues. Each of them is meticulously mosaiced with skillful details. These impressive works of art certainly leave a lasting impression on visitors.

Nghi Mon Gate and Bai Dinh Yard catch tourists’ attention at the first time (Source: Collected)

3.3. Thien Dinh Palace

Thien Dinh palace, located on the fifth floor, is the highest part of Khai Dinh tomb. This rectangular-shaped building is paved by marble stones and features intricate and beautiful bas-reliefs made from porcelain and glass. The grandeur and solemnity here make it a must-see attraction in the whole mausoleum.

3.4. Khai Thanh Sanctuary

This is the place where the tomb of Khai Dinh emperor’s altar stands. This space is made up of copper-colored concrete, with decorative motifs in a golden hue. On the top, there is an inscribed name board with the name “Khai Thanh Dien” (Khai Thanh sanctuary) while the king’s remains are kept under the sanctuary.

3.5. The bronze statue of King Khai Dinh

Khai Dinh tomb is considered a breakthrough among ancient tomb systems by its own distinctive design. Unlike other royal tombs, the tomb of Khai Dinh features two life size bronze statues of its eponymous king, one sitting and one standing.

• The sitting statue is put on a golden throne in the Khai Thanh sanctuary. This sculpture was casted by two Frenchman in 1920, while its gold gilding part was done by a local Hue artisan. 
• The standing statue was cast by a skilled artisan from Quang Nam. The statue was initially placed in An Dinh palace and then was moved to the Thien Dinh palace in 1975.

The incredible attention to detail in the design of the tomb and its outstanding bronze sculptures will astound any visitor once in Khai Dinh tomb Hue.

The standing statue in the tomb of Khai Dinh Hue (Source: Collected)

4. A detailed guide for your visit to Tomb of Khai Dinh

4.1. When is the best time to visit Khai Dinh Tomb?

The best time to visit Khai Dinh mausoleum, according to traveler experience in Hue, is in the summer. Nonetheless, this time of year in Hue may be quite hot and exhausting. Therefore, if possible, it is highly recommended to schedule your trip for January or February when the weather will be more pleasant and colder. Your journey will be a lot more convenient and comfortable.

Check in at emperor Khai Dinh tomb Vietnam (Source: Collected)

4.2. How to get to Khai Dinh Tomb?

The tomb of Khai Dinh Hue is just around 9 kilometers away from the heart of the city. The distance taking about 20 minutes to arrive makes the travel comfortable. To get to Khai Dinh Hue mausoleum from the heart of Hue, travelers have to head west to Hanoi Road, then turn left onto Ngo Quyen Street, and finally right onto Dien Bien Phu and Minh Mang Streets.

Map to get to the tomb of Khai Dinh Hue (Source: Collected)

4.3. How much is the Khai Dinh Tomb entrance fee?

Khai Dinh tomb entrance fee is different according to age:

• Adults: 150,000 VND per person for one visit.
• Children: 30,000 VND per person for one visit.

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Meanwhile, Hoi An has long been famed for its old architecture and lantern-lit alleyways. After touring Da Nang, head to the adjacent Hoi An Ancient Town. There are several attractions in this area, including the Japanese Bridge, An Bang Beach, and the Cantonese Assembly Hall. 

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In Hue, Vietnam, Khai Dinh tomb is a significant historical and cultural landmark. It is a magnificent complex with intercultural architecture, outstretched yards, and serene natural surroundings. Visitors may tour the complex’s numerous buildings and features as well as see with their own eyes the Khai Dinh’s status with the size of 1:1. Everyone interested in history and culture can have a wonderful and rewarding experience by giving Khai Dinh tomb a visit.

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