Ngu Ha River – The Rebirth of the "King’s River"
The Ngu Ha River is the only semi-artificial waterway flowing directly through the heart of the Hue Citadel. Construction began in 1805 under King Gia Long and was completed in 1825 during King Minh Mang's reign. It once served as a vital arterial waterway for the Royal Family and the military.
A Thousand-Year Historical Imprint
On this voyage, travelers pass through ancient hydraulic architectural wonders:
Dong Thanh & Tay Thanh Thuy Quan: The intelligent defensive water-gate system of the Imperial City.
Ngu Ha Bridge (Kho Bridge): Home to the "Ngu Ha Bi Ky" stone stele personally composed by King Minh Mang.
Tinh Tam Lake & Tang Tho Pavilion: Royal scenic spots and the imperial library reflecting on the water’s surface.
As of April 10, 2026, the Hue City Government officially reopened the Ngu Ha River route, awakened with shimmering lighting systems and revitalized landscapes.
The Experience: Sustainable "Green Tourism" in Hue
Instead of noisy, motorized engines, Hue Smile Travel pioneers electric boats. This is a testament to the "Green Tourism" trend in Hue.
The Rise of Hue Eboat Tours: Sustainable "Green Tourism"
Traditional motorized boats often bring noise, vibrations, and fuel emissions that disrupt the delicate ancient brickwork of the Citadel's canals and disturb the serene atmosphere. To solve this, Hue Smile Travel pioneers the use of specialized electric boats (Eboats).Why Choose Hue Eboat Tours?
→ Silent Navigation: Powered by clean electric batteries, our Eboats glide silently without any engine noise. You can fully immerse yourself in the natural rustle of the wind and the gentle splash of the water.
→ Preserving Ancient Brickwork: The zero-emission propulsion creates minimal wake (waves), protecting the historic 200-year-old stone embankments of the Ngu Ha canal from erosion.
→ Exclusive Access: Thanks to their sleek, low-profile design, these specialized Eboats are the only vessels capable of easily navigating beneath the narrow, low-hanging ancient stone bridges of the Citadel.
→ Comfort & Elegance: Fitted with comfortable seating, panoramic open roofs, and safety-certified structures, our Eboats offer a luxury boutique feel.
Detailed Itineraries: Day & Night Routes
We offer two distinct journeys to capture Hue’s beauty at any hour:
Tour 1: The "King's River" Heritage Path (Daytime)
Path: Toa Kham Pier → Huong River → Dong Ba River → Ngu Ha River → Phung Hung.
Duration: 90 minutes/trip.
Time Slots: Morning (7:00 – 10:00) | Afternoon (15:00 – 18:00).
Highlights: Witness local life at Dong Ba Market, visit Dieu De Pagoda, and admire ancient city gates.
Tour 2: Shimmering Hue by Night (Evening)
Path: Toa Kham Pier → Upstream Huong River → Nguyen Hoang Bridge → Return to Pier.
Duration: 60 minutes/trip.
Time Slots: Shift 1 (19:00) | Shift 2 (20:00).
Highlights: Photograph the Flag Tower, Noon Gate (Ngo Mon), and Phu Van Lau illuminated from the romantic Perfume River.
2026 Tour Price List: Perfume River & Ngu Ha Canal
To celebrate the opening of this new heritage route, Huong River Cruises is offering special promotional rates:
| Customer Category | Ticket Price (VND/Guest) | Notes |
| Adults | 160,000 VND | Full itinerary |
| Children | 120,000 VND | Under 1.0m (with adult) |
Note: Ticket prices include travel insurance and safety equipment on board.

Why is the Royal Canal Tour a Must-Do?
Multi-Heritage Connection: Seamlessly link the Imperial City to Dong Ba Market, the Gia Hoi Ancient Quarter, and riverside craft villages in one trip.
Authentic Culture: Savor local Hue cuisine at the pier or interact with residents living along these historic banks.
Safety & Professionalism: Our captains are highly trained in both heritage knowledge and inland waterway safety.
How to Combine Your Hue Eboat Tour with Active Travels
At Hue Smile Travel, we believe in seamless, multi-sensory adventures. Here is how you can build the ultimate day in Hue:
→ Daytime Cycling: Start your morning by renting a premium bicycle through our Hue Bike Rental service to explore the shady streets, local markets, and garden houses like Y Thao. Remember, our bike rentals come with FREE roadside repair support for your peace of mind!
→ Sunset Eboat Transition: Cycle over to the pier, park your bike, and board our silent Hue Eboat just as the golden hour sun sets over the Perfume River.
→ Heritage Integration: If you prefer a fully organized journey, you can book this boat ride as part of our signature Hue City Tour packages.
Discover Hue from a sustainable, royal perspective. Book your Hue Eboat Tour today!
Meeting Point: Toa Kham Tourist Pier, Hue City.
Hotline/WhatsApp: +84 93 548 44 15
FAQ
Is the Hue Eboat tour safe during the rainy season?
All our Eboats are certified under national inland waterway safety standards and equipped with safety gear. Tours may be adjusted or rescheduled in cases of heavy rain or high river currents to ensure absolute safety.
Can we book a private Hue Eboat for events or dinners?
Yes! We offer private charter E-boat services with customized options such as local Hue snacks, tea ceremonies, or traditional live acoustic performances on board. Don't hesitate to call our hotline for a customized quote.
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Ngu Ha River – The Rebirth of the "King’s River"
Detailed Itineraries: Day & Night Routes
FAQ
