Hue Royal Canal Heritage Tour: Explore the Citadels via Green Electric Boat

The Hue Royal Canal Tour (Ngu Ha – Dong Ba – Huong River) is a groundbreaking tourism product, offering a completely new perspective of the Hue Imperial City from the water. Operating with eco-friendly electric boats, this journey revives the historic "King’s River" for modern travelers.

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.

Why choose an electric boat?

Silent Operation: No engine noise. Enjoy the absolute tranquility of the Imperial City.

Eco-Friendly: Zero emissions, protecting the ancient capital's river ecosystem.

Exclusive Access: Compact boats easily navigate through narrow ancient stone bridges that larger vessels cannot reach.

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:

Note: Ticket prices include travel insurance and safety equipment on board.

Why the Royal Canal Tour is 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.

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