After a spectacular 3 1/2 hour drive from Hoi An through Da Nang and over numerous switchbacks to the 500m Hai Van pass, we arrived in Hue. It is the old capital of Vietnam and has exceeded our expectations with its historical sites.

The Thien Mu Pagoda shown in the photo, was founded in the 1600's. The monks living at the pagoda were majorly involved with the anti-war and anti-Diem movements in the 1960's (Diem was Catholic and biased towards them).

In the center of Hue, 10 km perimeter walls and a moat surround the Imperial Enclosure which was the administrative center for the Nguyen emperors who ruled Vietnam from 1802 until 1945. (As an aside, it is interesting that 70% of Vietnamese have the surname Nguyen). Further inside is the Purple Forbidden City - the families' and concubines' living quarters. Many of the structures were destroyed in the wars, but are being reconstructed as part of UNESCO World Heritage Funds. Reminiscent somewhat of the Forbidden City in Beijing, the area gives an insight into the opulent lives of the emperors and the political intrigue that they endured.

Seven of the 13 emperors built themselves elaborate tombs. We toured 2 of them which are located about 10 km from the city and are extensive sites with numerous buildings built around small lakes and ponds. The actual burial locations on the sites are unknown to this day to protect them from being plundered by enemies.

The city of Hue is built along both sides of the Perfume River which is used for transportation by boats of all sorts. There is a long walkway along the river leading to an area of small restaurant stalls. We had a delicious meal there of green snails along with pork and chayote shoots, washed down with local beer while sitting by the water. Altogether a pleasant city!