Standing gracefully along the northern bank of the Perfume River, Phu Văn Lâu (Pavilion of Edicts) represents one of the most significant historical structures within Hue’s Imperial City. Built in 1819 during Emperor Gia Long’s reign, this elegant two-story pavilion served as the official announcement board of the Nguyen Dynasty, where royal decrees and examination results were publicly displayed. With its striking yellow-tiled roof and distinctive architecture, Phu Van Lau continues to captivate visitors as a testament to Vietnam’s rich imperial heritage.
Overview of Phu Van Lau
Phu Văn Lâu stands as a vital component of Hue’s monumental axis, strategically positioned between the Thái Hòa Palace, Noon Gate, Flag Tower, and the picturesque Perfume River with Ngự Bình Mountain in the distance. This 11.67-meter structure features a traditional yellow-tiled roof supported by 16 imposing dark red pillars, creating an impressive architectural statement that has endured for nearly two centuries.
Originally established as a simple Bảng Đình (Announcement Pavilion) under Emperor Gia Long, it was transformed into the grand two-story Phu Van Lau we see today in 1819. The pavilion held immense importance in royal communications, serving as the official platform for publicizing court announcements, royal decrees, and the eagerly anticipated results of the National and Court Examinations. It also hosted significant national celebrations attended by the king, court officials, and citizens.
In 1843, Emperor Thiệu Trị enhanced the site by adding a stone stele house to the right of the pavilion, featuring his poem “Hương Giang Hiểu Phiếm” (Morning Boat Trip on Perfume River), further elevating its cultural significance.
Despite undergoing approximately ten restorations throughout its 190-year history—from the first in 1905 following a devastating typhoon to the most recent renovations in 1994-1995—Phu Van Lau has maintained its original architectural integrity. The ground floor remains open and spacious, while the second floor showcases silk painting frames, round windows on both sides, elegant wooden banisters, and front windows decorated with horizontal lacquered boards featuring the symbolic “luong long trieu nguyet” (two dragons adoring the moon) motif.
How to get to Phu Van Lau
Phu Van Lau is located in the heart of Hue’s Imperial City complex, along the northern bank of the Perfume River.
- By Foot: Easily accessible within the Imperial City, a short walk from Ngo Mon Gate (Noon Gate)
- By Taxi/Grab: Ask to be dropped at the Imperial City entrance, then walk toward the Flag Tower area
- By Cyclo/Motorbike: Available throughout Hue city; agree on prices before departure
- By Tour: Most HueSmileTravel city tours include Phu Van Lau in their Imperial City itinerary
The pavilion is visible from the river and sits prominently along the axis that connects Thái Hòa Palace to the Perfume River.
Address: Le Duan street, Phu Thuan ward, Phu Xuan district, Hue city
Things to Know
| Opening hours: | 07:00 – 17:30 daily |
| Entrance fee: | Included in the Imperial City ticket (200,000 VND for adults; 40,000 VND for children 7-12) |
| Visitor tips: | Early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (3-5 PM) to avoid crowds and heat 15-20 minutes for Phu Van Lau specifically; 2-3 hours for the entire Imperial City Be sure to look for the stone stele house with Emperor Thiệu Trị‘s poem about the Perfume River, located to the right of the pavilion. |
| Nearby attractions: | Flag Tower, Noon Gate, Thai Hoa Palace, Nine Holy Cannons |
Experience the magnificence of Phu Van Lau and other imperial treasures with HueSmileTravel‘s specialized heritage tours. Our knowledgeable guides will transport you through time to understand the profound historical and cultural significance of these remarkable structures.
