Cung Truong Sanh, Hue

Historic Building in Hue

Cung Truong Sanh
Cung Truong Sanh
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Vinhtantran

Cung Truong Sanh, also known as the Grand Queen Mother's Residence, sits in the northwest corner of the Hue Imperial Citadel and offers one of the most atmospheric glimpses into royal domestic life. Originally built in 1821 during the reign of Emperor Minh Mang, it began as a tranquil flower garden where emperors could invite their mothers to relax amidst streams, rockeries, and elegant pavilions. Over time, it evolved into a residence and working space for several Queen Mothers, becoming one of the top attractions in Hue and a great place to visit on a tour of Hue.

Known for its refined landscapes, symbolic layout, and poetic charm, the palace complex was once regarded as one of the 20 scenic spots of the imperial capital. Today, after major restoration work in 2005-2007, visitors can once again appreciate its quiet courtyards, reconstructed halls, and garden features that reflect the aesthetic values of the Nguyen Dynasty.

History and Significance of Cung Trường Sanh

Cung Trường Sanh was initially conceived as a garden retreat, offering a peaceful sanctuary for the mothers of Nguyen rulers. Its early name and function emphasised filial piety, a core Confucian value, while its landscape design encouraged rest, contemplation, and poetic inspiration. The layout originally symbolised the number “three,” with a main palace in the centre, buildings in front, and a pavilion at the rear, all surrounded by subsidiary structures.

Under King Thieu Tri, the palace was significantly expanded and linked by covered corridors, transforming it into a more complex residential compound. Key elements included Tho Khang Palace at the centre, Ngu Dai Dong Duong to the front, and Van Phuc Tower to the back. The gardens featured artificial rock formations, flowing streams, and graceful red bridges that enhanced the palace’s lyrical scenery.

During the final years of the Nguyen Dynasty, Cung Trường Sanh became home to several queen consorts, including Le Thien Anh, Tu Minh, and Tien Cung. These women shaped the palace’s daily rhythms and helped preserve its ceremonial and domestic functions. In 1923, King Khai Dinh renovated the complex further and officially renamed it Truong Sanh Palace, continuing its evolution as a significant royal enclave.

Things to See and Do in Cung Trường Sanh

Visitors entering Cung Trường Sanh will find a peaceful compound filled with reconstructed halls, shady corridors, and landscaped corners. The restored Tho Khang Palace forms the heart of the complex, offering insight into how Queen Mothers once lived and conducted their daily activities. The layout encourages slow, reflective exploration, much like its original garden design intended.

The grounds include artificial rockeries and remnants of streams, crossed by red-painted bridges that once defined the palace’s scenic charm. Though not all features survive in their original form, the restored landscape successfully preserves the tranquil ambience that made the palace a favourite residence within the citadel.

Walking through the network of connected buildings also reveals architectural transitions from Minh Mang’s era to later 19th- and early 20th-century styles. Visitors can trace these changes through decorative motifs, building materials, and the layout of the complex, offering a richer understanding of how the Nguyen court adapted its private spaces over time.

How to Get to Cung Trường Sanh

Phu Bai International Airport, the closest airport to Hue, is located about 16 kilometres from the city centre and offers regular domestic flights. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hue on Booking.com.

Hue Railway Station provides convenient connections to major Vietnamese cities, including Da Nang, Hanoi, and Ho Chi Minh City. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio. From the station, it is a short drive to the Imperial Citadel.

Travelling by car is simple, with parking areas located near the main entrances of the Citadel. From there, visitors can walk through the Imperial Enclosure to reach the northwest corner where Cung Trường Sanh is located.

Practical Tips on Visiting Cung Trường Sanh

  • Suggested tips: Wander slowly to appreciate the garden features and architectural details that define this palace.
  • Best time to visit: Early morning or late afternoon for cooler temperatures and soft, atmospheric light.
  • Entrance fee: Included with the Imperial City ticket.
  • Opening hours: Typically 8:00-17:30, though seasonal variations may occur.
  • How long to spend: Around 30-45 minutes exploring the residence and gardens.
  • Accessibility: Mostly accessible, though some uneven paths and restored bridges require care.
  • Facilities: Restrooms and small drink stalls are available elsewhere within the Imperial City.
  • Photography tip: Capture the red bridges and rockeries to evoke the palace’s classical garden aesthetic.
  • Guided tours: Many guided tours include this palace for its insight into royal domestic life.
  • Nearby food options: Various cafés and restaurants can be found just outside the Citadel.

Where to Stay close to Cung Trường Sanh

Staying near the Imperial City makes visiting sites like Cung Trường Sanh especially convenient. The refined Azerai La Residence offers elegant riverside rooms close to the citadel. Visitors seeking boutique tranquillity may enjoy Le Domaine de Cocodo, known for its peaceful setting. Alternatively, Villa Hue provides an intimate stay with easy access to key historic landmarks.

Is Cung Trường Sanh Worth Visiting?

Cung Trường Sanh is definitely worth visiting for those interested in the personal lives of the Nguyen royal family, garden architecture, and the quieter corners of the Imperial City. Its restored structures, poetic landscapes, and historical depth make it one of Hue’s most rewarding palace complexes, especially for travellers who appreciate serene, culturally rich environments.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.8 (31)

Truong Sanh Palace, also called the Longevity Palace, is a tranquil, somewhat secluded residence within the Imperial City of Huế noted for its authentic atmosphere, mustard-yellow buildings, gardens, ponds and a moon- or semi-circular canal with a small artificial island; visitors highlight its peaceful park setting and that many interior rooms are closed while the grounds and waterside views remain the main attractions.

Maxime Crettex
3 months ago
"Even though some tourists neglect this place, it is absolutely worth the visit. The palace displays authenticity and features a really lovely park,with a moon-shaped canal...."
Thu Ngan Ng
a year ago
"Cung Trường Sanh, also known as the "Longevity Palace," is located within the Imperial City of Huế, Vietnam. It was originally built as a privateresidence for the queens and mothers of emperors of the Nguyễn Dynasty. The palace served as a retreat for these royal women, providing a tranquil environment surrounded by gardens and ponds. A fun fact is that despite its historical importance, Cung Trường Sanh was not as heavily damaged during the wars as other parts of the Imperial City. This has allowed more of its original structure and details to remain intact, making it a significant site for understanding the private lives of royal women during the Nguyễn Dynasty. The name "Longevity Palace" reflects the belief that its serene surroundings would contribute to the health and longevity of its inhabitants...."
David Walker
8 months ago
"Enchanting private residence and gardens with semi-circular lake and small artificial island."

FAQs for Visiting Cung Trường Sanh

It was first built as a garden retreat for Nguyen rulers to enjoy with their mothers.
Several queen consorts, including the wives of Kings Tu Duc, Duc Duc, and Dong Khanh.
Key buildings and gardens were restored during a major conservation project completed in 2007.
Most of the restored areas are open for exploration.
Around 30-45 minutes is ideal for a full visit.

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The Cung Truong Sanh appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hue!

Moira & Andy
Moira & Andy

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Cung Trường Sanh, Lê Huân, Thuận Thành, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam
Hue: 2 km

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