Tomb of Tu Duc

Historic Site in Hue

Tomb Of Tu Duc
CC BY-SA 4.0 / Bùi Thụy Đào Nguyên

Emperor Tu Duc’s Tomb is one of the most significant and beautifully designed mausoleums of the Nguyen Dynasty, located about 8 kilometers from Hue, Vietnam. Built for Tu Duc, who reigned from 1847 to 1883, the tomb is a remarkable reflection of the emperor’s personality, his love for poetry, and his passion for nature. Tu Duc Tomb is conveniently located just 8 kilometers from the city center, making it an ideal spot for a day trip.

History of the Tomb of Tự Đức

As the son of King Thieu Tri, Tu Duc reigned from 1847 to 1883. His 35-year rule marked the decline of Vietnamese independence, as he struggled against the persistent encroachment of French colonial forces. Eventually, he was compelled to sign treaties granting the French control over three provinces in the Mekong Delta.

Faced with immense pressure, he also had to open the cities of Hanoi, Hai Phong, and the Red River area to international trade. Despite losing parts of the nation’s territory, Tu Duc is still remembered for his intellectual contributions, particularly his poetry.

Caught between the complex circumstances of his country and his own personal sorrows, including his inability to produce an heir, Tu Duc sought solace in creating his own lavish retreat. The mausoleum spans 12 hectares and took over six years to construct, resulting in the impressive Tu Duc Tomb we know today.

Hightlights of the Complex

Originally known as “Van Nien Co” (Palace of Eternity), the construction of the tomb involved thousands of workers laboring from dawn until midnight under harsh conditions, which eventually led to a rebellion. Following the uprising, the court condemned the project, prompting Tu Duc to rename the tomb “Khiem Cung,” meaning “Palace of Modesty.” Today, all the structures within the complex reflect the theme of modesty.

Despite its tumultuous history, Tu Duc Tomb is a breathtaking sight, comprising five main sections:

Luu Khiem Lake and Tinh Khiem Islet
To access Tu Duc Tomb, visitors walk along a brick-tiled path starting at Vu Khiem Gate, which leads to Khiem Cung Gate. In front of Khiem Cung Gate lies the serene Luu Khiem Lake. Originally a small stream, this man-made lake is believed by the late emperor to hold merit. During the summer, the water is adorned with pink lotus flowers, creating an idyllic setting for appreciating Vietnam’s national flower.

At the center of the lake is Tinh Khiem Islet, where Tu Duc cultivated various rare flower species, some of which still thrive today. The lake also features Du Khiem and Xung Khiem pavilions, where the emperor enjoyed leisurely activities such as chess, tea, and reading.

Hoa Khiem Palace
As you pass through Khiem Cung Gate, the next structure is Hoa Khiem Palace. This building once served as Tu Duc’s working space and is now dedicated to the worship of the emperor and his wife. Flanking the palace are the Phap Khiem Vu and Le Khiem Vu houses, which provided resting quarters for the servants.

Luong Khiem Temple
As a devoted son, Tu Duc Emperor established Luong Khiem Temple as a space to honor his mother, Empress Dowager Tu Du. Adjacent to the temple is the On Khiem Chamber, which houses the emperor’s personal belongings.

Minh Khiem Ancient Theater
One of the highlights of Tu Duc Tomb is the royal theater known as Minh Khiem. Overlooking the tranquil lake, this architectural gem embodies Tu Duc’s poetic spirit, with intricately carved pillars and a ceiling adorned with celestial motifs. Here, the emperor enjoyed royal performances. To preserve the building, performances are now held in the Xung Khiem Pavilion. For those who appreciate Vietnamese art, particularly Hue court music, this ancient theater is certainly worth a visit.

The Tomb Area
The first section, Bai Dinh, is located behind the worship area and features two rows of statues believed to accompany the emperor on his journey to the afterlife. Following Bai Dinh, visitors reach the Bi Dinh area, which showcases the emperor’s handwriting on a massive 20-ton stele, the largest stone stele in Vietnam. This inscription chronicles Tu Duc’s life, achievements, and downfall.

To reach the emperor’s tomb, visitors cross Tieu Khiem Lake, shaped like a crescent moon. The main tomb area is constructed on three stone tiers. The actual burial site of the emperor remains a mystery; legend has it that after his death, his loyal servants secretly buried him in a hidden location on Luu Khiem Lake.

To protect the tomb from grave robbers, all the servants were executed after the burial, and thus the secret of Tu Duc’s final resting place perished with them.

Visiting the Tomb of Tự Đức

Today, Emperor Tu Duc’s Tomb is a major tourist attraction and a part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses the Complex of Hue Monuments. Visitors are drawn to its stunning architecture, tranquil gardens, and historical significance, making it a must-see destination for those exploring Hue’s imperial history. The site offers a glimpse into the life of one of Vietnam’s most notable emperors and the cultural heritage of the Nguyen Dynasty.

The Tomb of Tu Duc appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hue!

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Visiting Tomb of Tu Duc

Hours:

7:30 am – 5:30 pm daily


Price:

150,000 VND per adult

Address: Tu Duc Tomb, Cầu Đông Ba, thôn Thượng, Thủy Xuân, Huế, Thua Thien Hue, Vietnam

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