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Hue’s Night Tourism Scene: A Rising Star for Vietnam’s Cultural Capital

Night tourism is becoming an important highlight of Hue, offering locals and international visitors a fresh way to experience the former imperial capital. As part of its vision to become a heritage, cultural, ecological, and smart city, Hue has built a diverse ecosystem of evening activities that redefines its tourism identity.

The city has developed vibrant night spaces such as the Pham Ngu Lao – Vo Thi Sau – Chu Van An pedestrian zone, Hai Ba Trung Walking Street, Le Loi cultural-art street, the Imperial City, and both banks of the Perfume River. These areas feature street art, food markets, local crafts, and live performances, attracting thousands of visitors every weekend.

Building on its heritage, Hue promotes branded tourism themes like “Hue – The Culinary Capital of Vietnam,” “Hue – The Capital of Ao Dai,” and “Hue – The Festival City,” while also offering niche experiences in wellness, ecotourism, handicraft villages, and spiritual journeys. Evening programs such as royal court music at Duyet Thi Duong theater, Ca Hue on the Perfume River, and weekend shows at the Citadel Night Street have proven highly popular, with some drawing over 2,000 guests per night.

Night tourism in Hue also integrates health and leisure. Events like Hue Jogging Night attract more than 1,000 participants, while yoga clubs host evening sessions in scenic public spaces. Shopping and entertainment thrive at Nguyen Dinh Chieu, Vo Thi Sau, and Chu Van An night streets, as well as commercial hubs like Vincom and AEON Mall.

Innovative night tours are also on the rise, including “Imperial City by Night,” which extended hours to 11 PM and welcomed over 20,000 visitors in four months. Other options such as electric bus tours, cyclo food tours, and dinner cruises on the Perfume River highlight the city’s creativity in enriching night experiences.

Hue’s culinary scene shines brightest at night. Weekend food streets host over 100 establishments, many highly rated by global travel platforms, while signature events such as the “Culinary Capital Festival” and Vegetarian Food Festival attract thousands of food lovers.

According to the Hue Tourism Department, night tourism already accounts for about 20 percent of the city’s tourism revenue, reflecting its rapid growth. Strong collaboration between authorities and businesses has created high-quality nighttime experiences, giving Hue a youthful and dynamic appeal.

Hue’s approach shows that night tourism can be more than an addition to daytime sightseeing. With its balance of cultural heritage, creativity, and community spirit, Hue by night is vibrant, welcoming, and unforgettable.