Foreign tourists love to stroll along the banks of the Perfume River. Photo: Ngoc Hoa

Nguyen Dinh Chieu walking street is always bustling with people going back and forth, groups of tourists wanting to explore the beauty of the ancient capital at night, young couples holding hands on dates, children interested in the fun of roller skating, groups of students sitting in a circle playing guitars, humming youthful songs... Being the oldest and most bustling walking street, perhaps only on rainy days do those footsteps take a break.

The walking street is where street artists are free to show off their talents. I was impressed by a guy wearing ao dai, turban and playing bamboo flute to traditional songs with great emotion. The flute's melodious, soulful sound made everyone stop and listen, he bowed politely when a generous guest put money in the box. I leaned on the railing, enjoying the music , watching the flowing water, the dragon boats with brilliant colors of heritage, feeling my soul so light and peaceful.

The other day, I happened to see a foreign guy performing a very funny act. He wore thick-rimmed glasses, his hair was a bit messy, he wore a colorful outfit, he acted funny, he blew a trumpet, and he held an inflatable rooster between his legs. Every time someone passed by, he suddenly let out a cry that surprised and delighted everyone. Unfortunately, the next times I came, I didn't get to see that special artist anymore.

The walking street is also a place where young people can freely sing, dance and express their personalities, creating their own stages with bright LED lights, drums, guitars, etc. They gather in a circle next to the river bank, playing the guitar and singing very enthusiastically. Sometimes, I also want to join in the fun with them to relive my passionate student days.

Going towards Toa Kham wharf is a miniature culinary area of ​​Hue with specialties: mussel rice, mussel noodles, grilled pork noodles, snails, various types of sweet soups... for diners to choose from. The sweet soups here are colorful: sweet rice balls, coconut-wrapped tapioca sweet soup, purple sweet potato sweet soup, roasted pork sweet soup... People come here not only to eat but also to enjoy the airy space and cool night air.

Walking down the Lim Wood Bridge, we feel like we are standing in the middle of a vast river, the multi-colored lights make the space even more sparkling and magical, our footsteps seem calmer and slower. The gentle winds caress our hair, as if blowing away all our worries. People hold hands and walk around, chatting happily, their faces bright and relaxed. It seems that every time we are in harmony with nature, we return to our own innocent and naive nature.

Thuc Dan