Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang Hue: A must-see with fabulous architecture

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The Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang is a prominent attraction in Hue (Source: Collected)

It is not an exaggeration to say that the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang is one of the most stunning ancient architectural works of the Nguyen Dynasty. With traditional beauty that bears the distinctive features of Confucianism, this mausoleum has attracted a large number of visitors from all over the world.

1. About Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang in Hue

1.1. Location, opening hours

The Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang is in Huong Tho commune, Huong Tra district, Thua Thien Hue province. It is 14 kilometers away from Hue’s city center. The tomb welcomes visitors daily, from 7:30 am to 5:00 pm.

1.2. History

Every single mausoleum in Hue has its own long-standing history and this tomb of Minh Mang is no exception.

Minh Mang was a king who made many significant reforms to the country at the time. In his reign, he wanted to build a grand mausoleum to serve as his future resting place. The king started the construction of the mausoleum in 1840. Unfortunately, he passed away before construction was complete.

Not until the time of his successor, King Thieu Tri, was the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang finally built in 1843. It has been preserving the remains of King Minh Mang until today. 

The Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang has a long history (Source: Collected)

1.3. Architecture

The Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang has become one of the most impressive tourist attractions in Hue Vietnam thanks to its unique architecture. The mausoleum covers over 18 hectares, with more than 40 large and small constructions arranged symmetrically. Surrounded by trees, rivers, and mountains, it also stands out with a tranquil atmosphere, which will surely bring you peace of mind.

The unique architecture of the mausoleum (Source: Collected)

2. What are the top highlights of the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang?

2.1. Dai Hong Mon Gate

The first thing that catches the eyes of visitors when they come to the mausoleum is Dai Hong Mon Gate. As the main entrance of the mausoleum, the gate was built of brick and lime at the time, creating a mossy color that has lasted until now.

It is said that Dai Hong Mon Gate was opened only once to bring King Minh Mang’s coffin into the mausoleum, and has remained sealed ever since. The purpose of the gate is to guard the endless sleep of the king. Thus, visitors will have to go through one of the two auxiliary gates, which are Ta Hong Mon (the red gate on the left) and Huu Hong Mon (the red gate on the right), to enter the mausoleum.

Dai Hong Mon Gate was opened only once (Source: Collected)

2.2. Bai Dinh Yard

Stepping through Dai Hong Mon Gate, visitors will see a spacious yard named Bai Dinh. It has an impressively large area of almost 2,000 square meters. The yard is tiled with beautiful Bat Trang ceramic bricks, the famous pottery village of Hanoi. On both sides of the yard, there are rows of statues of mandarins, elephants, and horses. These statues act as guardians that protect and attend to the king even after he has passed away.

The statues of mandarins, elephants, and horses in Bai Dinh Yard (Source: Collected)

2.3. Hieu Duc Mon Gate and Sung An Temple

The core of the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang is a sanctuary that is divided into Hieu Duc Mon Gate and Sung An Temple. This area is a place of worship, where King Minh Mang and his queen Ta Thien Nhan are honored. Here, tourists will feel the holy atmosphere brought by sophisticated figures of Vietnamese dragons and phoenixes designed in red and gold.

2.4. Minh Lau Pavilion

Minh Lau Pavilion is another highlight of the mausoleum. It served as a retreat for the king on moonlit nights. The entire square-shaped building, with two floors and eight roofs situated at the top of Tam Dai Mountain, is an embodiment of Eastern philosophy. It overlooks a garden in the shape of the letter “Tho”, which means longevity in Sino-Vietnamese. This structure is a must-see place for those who are fond of the history of Confucianism and the philosophy of life.

The Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang has no lack of attractions (Source: Collected)

2.5. Hien Duc Mon Gate

Hien Duc Mon Gate is a structure located in Tam Dien (Resting Hall). It was built on a square-shaped land, symbolizing the god of land, as the ancient people believed that square was the shape of the earth while circle was the shape of the sky. This place has a sacred and peaceful atmosphere, which is also ideal for you to take photos.

2.6. Tan Nguyet Lake

This is one of the most enchanting sites to visit during your trip to the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang. The lake has the shape of the crescent moon embracing the sun shape, symbolizing transformation and progress in ancient belief.

The poetic beauty of Tan Nguyet Lake (Source: Collected)

2.7. Thong Minh Chinh Truc Bridge

This bridge crosses Tan Nguyet Lake. The long name of this bridge means wisdom and integrity, which are two must-have virtues of a mandarin at that time.

3. The updated entrance fee of the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang

If you are planning to visit the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, check out the below updated entrance fee:

• Adults: 100,000 VND
• The elderly: 50,000 VND
• Children: 20,000 VND

4. When and how should you visit Minh Mang Tomb in Hue?

The most beautiful and pleasant period in Hue is early spring, from January to February, with cool weather, less sunshine, and no rain. This is a convenient time for a sightseeing tour to Minh Mang Tomb Hue and other tourist attractions in this ancient citadel.

From January to February is the best time to visit this mausoleum Hue Vietnam (Source: Collected)

To get to the Tomb of Minh Mang, you can choose one of the following two options:

• Travel by taxi or motorbike from the city center, follow National Road 49 to reach Tuan Bridge, continue straight ahead until you reach the mausoleum
• Embark on a traditional dragon boat upstream along Perfume River, which will lead you to the royal tomb, and contemplate the breathtaking view of nature

Boating up along Perfume River is a good way to get to Minh Mang Tomb Hue (Source: Collected)

After exploring Hue, be sure to also visit the nearby cities of Hoi An và Da Nang for a complete travel experience in Central Vietnam.

Da Nang, known as the most worth-living city in Vietnam, offers an array of attractions for visitors, from stunning beaches to majestic mountains, such as the Dragon Bridge, Linh Ung Pagoda, Son Tra Peninsula, etc. You can also explore the city’s vibrant cuisine which is sure to delight your taste buds.

Meanwhile, Hoi An Ancient Town is renowned for its historical buildings and lantern-lit streets. This charming town has many attractions that showcase its rich cultural heritage, including Silk Village Hoi An and Japanese Bridge. 

For a thrilling experience in Hoi An, head to VinWonders Nam Hoi An, a top-rated amusement park with exciting games and activities for visitors of all ages. Its five subdivisions (Adventure Land, Island of Folk Culture, Water World, Harbor Corner, and River Safari) will undoubtedly provide you with a range of flawless experiences.

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To make the most of your trip, it is highly recommended that you book your accommodation in advance. Luxurious lodgings, such as Vinpearl Hoi An and Vinpearl Da Nang, offer deluxe rooms and amenities like spas, golf courses, and infinity pools. At Vinpearl, you can enjoy international-standard facilities and bask in the opulence of these hotels and resorts during your stay.

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Surrounded by nature, the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang is definitely a harmonious and peaceful place to visit. Here, tourists can gain a deeper understanding of Vietnam’s history and culture, especially the history of the Nguyen Dynasty and Confucianism.

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