Check out the stunning aerial views from the summit of Mount Tsurumi, which stands at 792 meters above sea level. You can reach the mountaintop by taking the Beppu ropeway.
As you plan your itinerary in Beppu, you may want to visit the Beppu Ropeway and take a ride up to the Mount Tsurumi, an active volcano that is the source of Beppu’s hot springs. The view from Mount Tsurumi is considered one of the most unique in the area, as you can see stunning views of Beppu and Oita. Visitors can reach the top using a ropeway cable car or by hiking up to the observation platform. The observatory at the hilltop offers majestic views of the city.
During our visit to Kyushu, we took the Beppu Ropeway ride to Mount Tsurumi. Read on for more details.
Since we wanted to visit the Ropeway and Hell of Beppu using the bus, we found getting a Kamenoi Bus Pass to be more practical and economical. We purchased the Kamenoi Bus 1-Day Mini Pass for about ¥1,100 at Beppu station, which allows us to travel anywhere in Beppu central including to Beppu Ropeway.
The Kamenoi Bus Pass can be bought at Beppu Station. You can also obtain the Beppu Kamenoi Bus Pass through Klook and exchange it for a physical ticket at Fukuoka Airport.
Pro Tips: If you plan to travel further to Yufuin, you’ll need the Wide Free Pass, which covers the bus ride between Beppu and Yufuin. Additionally, the Kyushu SunQ Pass covers the bus ride to Mount Tsurumi.
To get to Ropeway station from Beppu Station, take Kamenoi bus number 36. Buses depart from Beppu Station every hour, with 1 to 2 buses available. The bus ride from Beppu Station to Ropeway station is a scenic 30-minute journey through the countryside, offering beautiful greenery and rolling hills along the way.
Travel Tips: We recommended to stay nearby Beppu Station for easy getting around and food hunting. The Beppu Kamenoi Hotel is located within 5 minutes walk from the station. It has a high reputation by offering great size rooms with a spacious layout. Popular pick in Beppu.
Beppu Ropeway
Finally, we reached Beppu Kogen Station, the lower station to board the Beppu ropeway. You can purchase the Beppu Ropeway ticket on-site for ¥1,800 per adult.
Please note that they only accept cash.
After purchasing the ticket, we boarded the cable car.
The gondola has an adorable and classic design. It comes with glass window panels providing a 360-degree view of the surrounding mountains, forests, the city of Beppu, and Beppu Bay.
During the ride up Mt. Tsurumi, the gondola is operated by one staff member and announcements explain the attractions along the way. There are seats on each side and at the front of the gondola. For those standing, there are metal railings surrounding the gondola, as well as grab handles in the center.
The cable car is 1.8 kilometers long and climbs about 800 meters to the top of the mountain. The ride takes about 10 minutes.
During our Beppu ropeway ride, the weather was sunny and clear, providing a crystal-clear view of the scenic surroundings. Finally, we reached the top at Tsurumi Sanjo Station, standing at 1300 meters high on Mt. Tsurumi.
Mount Tsurumi
Mount Tsurumi (鶴見岳, Tsurumidake) is a 1375-meter-high mountain that overlooks Beppu.
When we got out of Tsurumi Sanjo Station, we were greeted with a picturesque and stunning view of Beppu, Mount Yufu, and the Kuju Mountains. CNN named the ropeway one of Japan’s 36 most stunning locations.
At Mount Tsurumi, you can explore the paved paths and ascend to the mountain’s summit. There is a red Torii gate leading to the Tsurumi Sanjo Gongen shrine on a beautifully laid cobbled pathway. It was charming and tranquil to experience this here.
There are plenty of amenities at the top, including the Sanjo store, Sanjo Gongen Wakudo Ishi, Seven Lucky Gods, and an upper deck Observatory.
Follow the path to Mount Tsurumi Upper Deck Observatory
Following the cobbled pathway, we slowly walked to the Mount Tsurumi Upper Deck Observatory.
There is a platform that provides a magnificent view of the scenic and panoramic landscapes of Beppu.
Although the view wasn’t as fabulous, the view from the summit is beautiful and makes for a terrific photo opportunity. In total, we spent about an hour and a half at the top.
Beppu Ropeway Suggested Length of Visit: Around 3-4 hrs (including the traveling time from Beppu Station) Fare: ¥1,800 roundtrip on the Beppu Ropeway
Lastly, we took the ropeway back to the Beppu Kogen Station, then we took the bus back to Beppu Station. Alternatively, you can extend your trip and continue to Yufuin.
Overall: A Beppu Ropeway Ride
All in all, for stunning views of Beppu, we highly recommend visiting the summit of Mount Tsurumi. The Beppu ropeway takes visitors to the observation platform, offering majestic views of the city. If you have time in your Beppu itinerary, it’s definitely worth a visit.
Lastly, this Beppu ropeway guide is part of my Kyushu travel blog. If you need some inspiration to plan for your trip, check out our trip to some other attractions nearby such as Kurokawa Onsen, Yufuin, Kokonoe, and more. Happy travel to Beppu.
Katsukura, a Kyoto-based restaurant, specializes in tonkatsu (pork cutlets) and prides itself on high-quality ingredients. The restaurant is incredibly popular in Kyoto and throughout Japan.
Katsukura (かつくら) is a tonkatsu restaurant based in Kyoto that is popular among locals and tourists. The restaurant takes pride in serving healthy and high-quality tonkatsu, which is a breaded and deep-fried pork cutlet. Katsukura has several branches in Kyoto and throughout Japan.
I have eaten tonkatsu many times and would like to try Katsukura during one of my visits to Kyoto. This place was a perfect find. If you’re looking for a delicious dinner after a long day of sightseeing, I highly recommend going to Katsukura for a satisfying tonkatsu meal. Here is my food review to Katsukura in Kyoto Station.
During this trip, we stayed at Hotel Keihan Grande Kyoto, which is conveniently located within 3 minutes from Kyoto Station. There are plenty of dining options to choose from. We decided to try out Katsukura in Kyoto Station due to its many positive reviews.
Katsukura can be found on the 11th floor of the Kyoto Station Building in the Cube. We stopped by for an early dinner. Despite it being early, the restaurant was popular among both locals and tourists. No reservation is accepted and we had to wait for about 40 minutes. However, the wait was definitely worth it.
The interior of Katsukura was bright and welcoming. Diners can choose to sit at the beautiful large wooden communal table for solo or small parties, or opt for traditional tables for family dinners.
What To Order at Katsukura
While waiting in line, we were provided with a menu to choose our food from. The menu was in English and also included instructions on how to eat the dishes.
Katsukura offers set menus with different courses as well as a la carte options. Meat portions come in three sizes of 80g, 120g (optimum), 180g. Even if you’re not a fan of pork, there are other non-pork options available here, such as crab cream croquettes, fried shrimp, and even seasonal special set.
I opted for the popular pork tenderloin with prawn cutlet and my friend choose the pork cutlet set menu. The set meal includes the main meal, and free refill of rice, cabbage salad, and miso soup. The time from ordering to delivery was about 12 minutes after we seated.
Tonkatsu Cutlet Souces
Special mention must be made of the tonkatsu sauce here. There were two dipping sauces for the cutlets: Katsukura Original Sauce and Spicy Sauce. All the sauces are made in-house with an original blend of red wine and fruit chutney. Make sure you try all the sauces!
What’s also unique here is that you can blend your dipping sauce at the table.
Here’s what to do if you’re eating tonkatsu for the first time:
Firstly, grind the sesame seeds and add the sauce of your choice. As you grind the seeds, they will release their oils and aromas, which is intoxicating. My vote goes for the Katsukura original sauce. Then, stir in your sauce(s) of choice and adjust the dipping sauce to your liking. You can even add some mustard if you wish!
Additionally, there is a Yuzu Salad Dressing for the cabbage salad. We enjoyed the way the cabbage salad was enhanced by the strong yuzu flavor. The tantalizing and aromatic yuzu perfectly complements the richness of the meal.
Katsukura Kyoto: The Food
Pork tenderloin with prawn cutlet Set
Take a look at our tempting pork cutlet set!
For set menu, you’ll also got the free flow of rice, soup, and cabbage salad. While the barley rice was simple, I enjoyed how hearty the miso soup was, especially on a cold night. The soup included an assortment of vegetables, such as sliced carrots, mushrooms, onions, lotus root, bamboo shoots, and seaweed. It was flavorful, light, and delicious, which complemented the rich tonkatsu.
The flavor of the pickled vegetables was interesting, with a sweet, salty, and citrusy taste. Some of the cabbage were soft, while some pieces were crunchy.
Katsukura Tonkatsu Set
Next, for the main star of the Katsukura. The pork was thick and meaty. The portion size was quite generous for the amount that we ordered (you can choose your portion).
The deep-fried cutlet was perfect with the meat still moist. It wasn’t as dry as I was expecting and it tasted great. I highly recommend going for the highest quality pork – you won’t regret it. I am happy with the tonkatsu given the price paid.
Overall: Katsukura Food Review
All in all, we highly recommend Katsukura in Kyoto. The food may not be traditional Kyoto cuisine, but it is truly delicious and simply incredible. Considering the quality of the ingredients, the prices are also reasonable. If you’re ever near Kyoto Station, why not stop by and try Katsukura? Just be prepared to wait in line.
Follow this step-by-step guide on how to take the Airport Limousine Bus from Kansai Airport to Kyoto Station.
Kansai International Airport (関西空港, KIX) is the primary airport in the Kansai Region. It serves as the main transportation hub for travelers heading to the cities of Kyoto, Osaka, and Kobe.
Kyoto is located approximately 36 kilometers from Kansai Airport. The historical city is easily accessible from the Kansai airport through Japan’s extensive railway and highway bus networks. The Airport Limousine Bus offers regular services between Kansai Airport and Kyoto Station, providing convenient access to accommodations near Kyoto Station.
For those traveling to the Kansai region, using the airport bus to travel between Kansai Airport and Kyoto has been a reliable option. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to get to Kyoto from Kansai Airport by bus.
Getting to Kyoto from Kansai Airport By Bus or By Train
There are several ways to get to Kyoto from Kansai Airport. Depending on your preferences, some options are faster while others are cheaper. On my recent trip to Kyoto, I stayed at the Hotel Keihan Grande Kyoto, and I found the experience quite convenient and comfortable. The Kansai Airport Limousine bus stops right in front of the hotel, making check-in a breeze in less than 2 minutes.
Here are some details about each option:
Airport Haruka Express Train from Kansai Airport to Kyoto:
If you are decided to take the Limousine bus, follow this step-by-step guide on how to take the Airport Limousine Bus from Kansai Airport to Kyoto Station. It’s easy with simple steps like 1, 2, 3!
From Kansai Airport To Kyoto Station By Bus
Before the trip, I purchased the Airport Limousine Bus ticket from Klook. It’s an open-date ticket, so you can redeem your voucher within 365 days of purchase.
Once you’ve purchased it, you’ll receive a QR code to exchange for a physical ticket when you arrive at Kansai Airport. No reservation is required, as the boarding of the bus is on a first-come, first-served basis.
As soon as you leave the Airport Customs, you can proceed to the self-service ticket machine to redeem your physical ticket. The kiosk is easy to find outside the arrival hall. Just follow the signs to get to the bus departure area.
There is a small machine under the bus information sign. You can easily redeem your physical ticket at the ticket machine by scanning your voucher. In case of any difficulty, you can also press the help button, and there are many people ready to assist you.
Besides Kyoto, you can also getting to Osaka, Kobe, Universal Studios Osaka, Wakayama, and other places from Kansai Airport. The bus stop location is well-marked.
First, find the designated bus stop for your destination and wait for the scheduled bus to arrive. The Airport Limousine Bus to Kyoto Station departs from Bus Stop #8 on the first floor of Terminal 1.
Next, join the queue and wait for the scheduled bus to arrive.
There are assistants available to help you with your luggage. They will tag your luggage, and you can enjoy a comfortable ride to your destination.
Lastly, relax and enjoy the journey. The limousine bus was premium, and the ride was very comfortable. Don’t forget to take in the city’s beautiful views and landscape along the way.
From Kyoto to Kansai Airport By Bus
If you want to take a bus from Kyoto Station to Kansai Airport, please note the following details.
The bus stop departing from Kyoto Station is located in front of the Avanti Building, which is directly opposite the Hachijo-guchi exit on the south side of Kyoto Station. Be careful not to board a bus for Osaka Airport by mistake, as this is a different destination and the departure point is nearby.
You can reserve tickets from Kyoto to Kansai Airport at any time within one month and at least one hour before departure. The Keihan Bus Center is located by the Avanti building and directly beside Hotel Keihan Grande Kyoto. This is where you can make your reservation for Kansai Limousine Airport. It is advisable to book your seats in advance. If all the seats on the Kyoto to Kansai Airport bus are taken, you will not be able to board and will have to wait for the next bus.
Additionally, if you are buying a round-trip ticket to travel between Kansai Airport and Kyoto, please remember to claim your return ticket at Kansai Airport.
Kansai Limousine Bus Schedule
Another valid reason for taking the Kansai Lumousine Bus is the early departure time.
Bus Schedule from Kyoto Station to Kansai Airport:
The earliest bus departs from Kyoto Station at 4:30 am and arrives at Kansai Airport’s Terminal 2 at 5:56 am and Terminal 1 at 6:07 am.
The latest bus departs from Kyoto Station at 21:10 and arrives at Kansai Airport’s Terminal 1 at 22:35.
Bus Schedule from Kansai Airport to Kyoto:
The earliest bus departs from Kansai Airport at 6:45 am from Terminal 1 and arries at Kyoto Station at 8:13 am.
The latest bus departs from Kansai Airport at 22:52 from Terminal 2 and 23:05 from Terminal 1, arriving at Kyoto Station at 1:20 am.
Please always double-check the bus schedules for any changes. For full timetables, you can visit the Kansai Airport website.
Overall: Should I Take Kansai Airport Limousine Bus?
All in all, the decision of whether to take the bus or train to travel between Kansai Airport and Kyoto is subjective and depends on your specific requirements. I personally enjoyed taking the Haruka Limited Express train from Kansai Airport to Kyoto. The train ride was comfortable.
However, if you’re traveling with kids, elderly people, or a lot of luggage, taking the Airport Limousine Bus might be a better option. This is especially true if you’re staying near the Kyoto Station Hachijo exit. You no need to take care of your luggage and stroller when boarding the bus. So, option is on you!
Lastly, please let me know if you found this Kyoto transport guide helpful. If you need more assistance with planning your trip to Kyoto, feel free to read more travel stories about Kyoto.
Planning a trip to Hue? We’ve compiled all our top tips into this travel guide blog to help you plan the perfect Hue itinerary for your visit.
Hue is the former imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty. This historic city is best known for its ancient citadel, impressive tombs, and palaces, which echo the city’s rich past. Today, Hue’s UNESCO-listed monuments remind visitors of its glorious history. With its well-preserved historical sites and rich culture, Hue is not to be missed. Visitors can explore Hue’s historical sites, experience traditional Vietnamese cuisine, and discover the history of the Nguyen Dynasty.
In this Hue travel guide blog, we have compiled lots of advice and information. This itinerary takes you to the essential sights of the city, including the must-see Imperial City, royal tombs, and more.
Hue is nestled between Da Nang and Hoi An, which makes it a frequent stop on most Central Vietnam itineraries. This impressive and distinctive city may be farther from the two cities, but you’re really missing out if you don’t visit Hue while you’re in Central Vietnam.
Besides, well-connected transportation also links Hue to cities such as Ho Chi Minh City or Hanoi. Transportation options for traveling to Hue as below.
Hue Travel Guide Tips: If you prefer a guided tour to Hue, you can book one through Klook or KKDAY.
From Hanoi or Ho Chi Minh City to Hue
By Airplane: Phu Bai Airport (HUI) is approximately 15 kilometers away. It offers domestic flights from major cities in Vietnam and also some internal flights.
By Train: Hue is a stop on the main north-south railway line that connects Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh City, and other major cities. Traveling by train is a memorable way to witness the Vietnamese countryside and immerse yourself in the local culture.
By Bus: Traveling to Hue by bus is a good choice for budget-conscious travelers, although it can be tiring as the journey from Hanoi takes 13 hours and from Hue to Ho Chi Minh City takes 25 hours.
From Da Nang or Hoi An to Hue
By Train: Take the scenic route by train, especially around Hue and Hoi An. The direct train from Da Nang or Hoi An to Hue takes roughly 3 hours.
By Bus: A sleeper bus is a very affordable and easy option for the 2.5-hour journey from Da Nang to Hue.
By Car or motorbike: From Da Nang City, you can enjoy a 3-hour scenic ride to Hue. This coastal road will take you through the picturesque Hai Van Pass (Hai Van Quan), winding through mountains and offering panoramic views of the South China Sea.
By Guided Tour: The most comfortable way to visit Hue from Hoi An and Danang is by joining a group tour or booking a private tour. For hassle-free, many travelers opted for tour. You can choose the join the Hue Tour departing from Da Nang or Hoi An.
Getting Around in Hue
Hue Perfume River
The attractions in Hue are spread out in the countryside, so it’s important to plan how to get around in Hue. Renting a bike or hiring a private car to visit the tombs on the outskirts makes exploring Hue quite feasible. You can also take a taxi or use the e-hailing service Grab to get around. However, the cost and effort involved can be exhausting.
We ultimately decided to book a Klook Tour to visit Hue, which took us to multiple locations at a reasonable price and was hassle-free.
How Many Days for Hue Itinerary
Many people make a day trip to Hue to see the Citadel and then leave. However, if you have the time, we highly recommend spending at least 2 days in Hue. This will give you the opportunity to explore the countryside, visit elaborate tombs and temples, and enjoy the great food that Hue has to offer.
While the main sights in the Hue city can be seen in one day with proper planning, you could easily spend several days sightseeing.
Where To Stay in Hue
Where To Stay in Hue – Jade Scene Hotel
Hue is a budget friendly destination with affordable accommodations. Travelers can choose from a range of high-end to luxurious options based on their budget and interests. Taking things slow is the best way to truly experience a country and find more affordable places to stay.
Below are some accommodation options for your trip to Hue:
High-Range: Melia Vinpearl Hue is a luxurious boutique hotel situated in the heart of Hue city center. It offers elegant rooms, personalized service, and a rooftop bar with stunning city views. The spacious rooms come with ample amenities. The hotel is conveniently located just a 15-minute walk from the walking street, where you can find numerous restaurants, bars, and clubs.
Mid-Range: Jade Scene Hotel is a boutique hotel that seamlessly combines art and luxury. It features well-appointed rooms and an outdoor pool with panoramic city views. The location is perfect, close to restaurants and nightlife, yet situated on a quiet street.
Mid-Budget: Hue Nino Hotel is a charming little hotel located on a quiet street near the restaurant quarter of Hue. The staff are incredibly accommodating, and the hotel offers a good breakfast, convenient location, and great value for money.
Budget: Nana Homestay and Villa is a lovely family-owned homestay located in a tranquil setting. The simple rooms have all the necessary amenities for a comfortable stay, making it a great choice for group friends at a very reasonable price.
Planning For Hue Itinerary
A Hue itinerary wouldn’t be complete without exploring the city’s impressive citadel and royal tombs, and trying out Hue’s local cuisine. Many travelers visit Hue as part of their itinerary to Central Vietnam. A day trip to see the main sights in Hue is doable. If you’re fascinated by Hue’s history and architecture, you could easily spend days exploring the city.
Here is what to do and see for Hue itinerary:
Hue Imperial City (The Citadel)
Thien Mu Pagoda
Visit the Hue Seven Imperial Tombs. Popular options: Tu Duc Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb
Learn Traditional Incense-making Craft at Incense Village
There’s no better place to start your Hue itinerary than the Imperial City. It was the former Imperial capital of Vietnam and was once the seat of power during the Nguyen Dynasty. The site offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s vibrant culture and history. A must-visit place when in Hue.
The best thing is, it’s conveniently located right in Hue’s city centre.
The Hue Imperial City is a walled compound with sprawling palaces, temples, and gardens that transport you back in time to the Nguyen Dynasty. You can tour the Citadel to see the Forbidden City and its majestic landscape. We were captivated by the elaborate architecture and learned about the Nguyen Dynasty’s fascinating ceremonies.
Exploring its many courtyards and pavilions can be a fascinating experience. There are arrows and signs throughout the grounds indicating the best path to follow. All of the buildings are beautiful with so much colorful and fine detail.
The To Mieu Temple (Thế Tổ Miếu / 世祖廟) is one of the highlights. It is an ancestral temple dedicated to Vietnam’s emperors in the Imperial City. Its construction was ordered by Emperor Minh Mạng in 1822, and its purpose was to worship past emperors of the Nguyễn Dynasty.
The citadel is a vast site and it is best to allocate two to three hours to visit the Imperial City. The entry fee is 200,000 VND per person and an audio guide can be borrowed for 100,000 VND. There are also tour guides outside if you would prefer someone to take you around.
Hue Imperial City (The Citadel) Opening hours: Daily from 7:30 to 17:00 Entrance fee: 200,000 VND (Combo Ticket Option Available)
Thien Mu Pagoda
Next up is Thien Mu Pagoda, also known as the Linh Mu Pagoda.
Build in the 1800s, Thien Mu Pagoda is an iconic site in Hue with an interesting history. The striking 7-story octagonal tower, as well as a marble turtle to symbolize longevity, are among its notable features. The pagoda’s elegant architecture, blending seamlessly with the lush surroundings, creates a captivating atmosphere that left us in awe.
The pagoda itself is beautiful, and its location above the Perfume River gives an air of tranquility. Although you can’t climb up the pagoda, you can take a peaceful stroll in the grounds. In addition to the pagoda, the site features gardens and artifacts that reflect the peaceful Buddhist ethos.
Thien Mu Pagoda Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 to 17:00 Entrance fee: Free!
Hue Royal Tombs
Hue Royal Tomb – Duc Duc Tomb
When visiting Hue, you can’t miss exploring the Royal Tombs. These tombs are the final resting places of the Nguyen emperors who ruled Vietnam (under French blessing) from 1802-1945. Stepping into these ancient monuments offers an immersive journey into one of Vietnam’s most vibrant historical periods. It also provides a captivating insight into Hue’s rich heritage and royal past.
Given its imperial history, there are several imperial tombs that you can visit. The seven royal tombs including: Duc Duc Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb, Dong Khanh Tomb, Thieu Tri Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb, Khai Dinh Tomb, and Gia Long Tomb. These Imperial Tombs are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Among all the royal tombs, the Khai Dinh Tomb, Minh Mang Tomb, and Tu Duc Tomb are the most popular places to visit. These three royal tombs are located close to each other and just a few kilometers from the city. Each boasts unique designs and intriguing elements to explore. It is best to include them on your Hue itinerary. Unfortunately, we didn’t have enough time to visit the Khai Dinh Tomb during our tour.
Tu Duc Tomb
Emperor Tu Duc was the longest-reigning monarch of the Nguyen Dynasty (1848-1883). He began planning his tomb long before his death in 1883. Over 50,000 soldiers worked on the project, yet Tu Duc was actually laid to rest at a secret location in Hue.
Tu Duc Tomb is located near Hue city, approximately 7 minutes away from Thien Mu Pagoda. It’s best to visit them together.
Compared to Khai Dinh Tomb and Minh Mang Tomb, Tu Duc Tomb has a more traditional and peaceful vibe. The compound is located in a beautifully landscaped area with many Chinese influences. The tomb grounds are lovely, featuring ponds filled with coy fish. Roof tops adorned with beautiful dragons, and several bonsai trees in the courtyard. Inside, visitors can see amazing furniture like a carrier for the king and learn about the Nguyen dynasty. Visitors should plan to allow approximately 30 minutes minimum for a visit.
Tu Duc Tomb Opening hours: Daily from 8:00 to 17:00 Entrance fee: 150,000 VND (Combo Ticket Option Available)
Minh Mang Tomb
Colouful painted building at Minh Mang Tomb
The Minh Mang Tomb, also known as the Mausoleum of Emperor Minh Mang, is a must-see attraction on any Hue Royal Tombs tour. It offers a fascinating glimpse into Vietnamese history and culture. Visitors can learn a great deal about the sacred rituals and symbolism incorporated into the tomb’s design.
The Minh Mang Tomb is also highly regarded as one of the most impressive tombs in Hue. It is included in most of the Hue Tour itinerary, and the one tomb to visit if time is limited.
Upon entering, you will be surrounded by intricate carvings, ornate statues, and exquisitely painted buildings. Visitors are also immersed in the picturesque scenery and can enjoy wandering through the courtyards while soaking up the history and tranquility. The blend of architecture, art, and nature is truly awe-inspiring.
Minh Mang Tomb Opening hours: Daily from 7:00 to 17:00 Entrance fee: 150,000 VND (Combo Ticket Option Available)
Khai Dinh Tomb
Statues at Khai Dinh Tomb
Lastly, Khai Dinh Tomb is one of Hue’s most visited attractions. It is one of the most recently built tombs in Hue, renowned for its mesmerizing architecture and historical value.
Built from 1920 to 1930, Khai Dinh Tomb is characterized by Vietnamese, Chinese, and French influenced architecture and ornaments. The facades, ceilings, and canopy are all elaborately decorated. The grounds are beautiful and filled with stone statues of soldiers, horses, and elephants. There is also an amazing view of the surrounding countryside from the top.
Khai Dinh Tomb Opening hours: Daily from 7:00 to 17:00 Entrance fee: 150,000 VND (Combo Ticket Option Available)
Learn Traditional Incense-making Craft at Incense Village
Hue Colorful Incense
Dating back about 700 years, the traditional incense-making craft in Hue has been established since the time of the Nguyen Dynasty. Historically, the incense village supplied incense to the royal court and the people in the Thuan Hoa – Phu Xuan region. Today, the incense village continues to produce incense using natural ingredients in the traditional way it has for centuries. Hue takes pride in its craft.
One of the most appealing factors drawing tourists to Incense Village in Hue is its picturesque scenery featuring colorful and striking incense bundles. Under the gentle sunlight, each bundle of incense unfurls in vibrant colors like blooming flowers. The colors and displays have evolved to cater to tourists’ tastes.
Thuy Xuan Village in Hue is a popular tourist destination located near Tu Duc’s tomb and is often included in full or half-day city tours. Visitors have the opportunity to learn about the traditional incense-making craft and take plenty of beautiful photos. Consider to include this into your Hue itinerary.
Eat Hue Local Cuisine
Vietnam is renowned for its cuisine. With an abundance of great food in Hue, you are sure to discover delightful options. Among all the local Hue cuisine, my favorites are Bun Bo Hue and Bun Thit Nuong. They are a must-try when visiting Hue.
Here are some of the best food to eat in Hue:
Bun Bo Hue: This spicy beef noodle soup with vermicelli noodles rival Pho. It uses flat noodles and tangy lemongrass broth, making it the most popular Hue food in Vietnam.
Banh Uot Thit Nuong (Rice Noodle Rolls with Grilled Pork): This is a famous Vietnamese food in Hue. The dish is served with barbecued meat, noodle rolls, dipping sauce, local herbs, and vegetables.
Bun Thit Nuong (Vermicelli with Grilled Pork): This dish is one of the iconic treats of Hue cuisine. Its ingredients are simple, including vermicelli, pork, pickles, peanuts, and fish sauce.
Nem Lui: This lemongrass pork skewers dish is always something tourists cannot leave without taking a bite of. Nem Lui is best when eaten hot with rice paper, local herbs, and the signature dipping sauce.
Banh Khoai: Another Hue specialty, these crispy fried pancakes are filled with prawns, pork, shallots, and bean sprouts. It’s greasy and crispy from deep-frying and has to be eaten with salad and dipping sauce.
Madam Thu Restaurant
Where To Eat in Hue:
One of my favorite places to eat in Hue is Madam Thu Restaurant. This charming restaurant is located on Hue Night Walking Street and is easy to find. The restaurant exudes character from the moment you step in.
There are many local food options on the menu. You can even order a tasting plate with all of Hue’s specialty dishes. The food is well-presented, and the staff will also explain how to eat it correctly.
More Time for Hue Itinerary?
For an unforgettable experience in Central Vietnam, you should consider extending your trip to Da Nang and Hoi An. Da Nang offers a vibrant cityscape with beautiful beaches, impressive bridges, and picturesque mountains, while Hoi An enchants with its charming ancient town and rich cultural heritage. Spending 5 to 7 days in Central Vietnam would be wonderful!
All in all, we hope this travel guide blog helps you plan your Hue itinerary. Hue is a great place to visit for its impressive ancient citadel, royal tombs, and delicious food. We didn’t expect too much when visiting Hue, but it ended up being one of the most memorable trips in Vietnam. Plan your trip and head to Hue for a colorful getaway like no other!
More Central Vietnam to Da Nang and Hoi An travel blog posts:
