Hue: Thousands of tourists visit the Imperial Citadel on the first day of the Lunar New Year (Year of the Horse 2026).

On the first day of the Lunar New Year of the Horse, the Hue heritage site opened its doors free of charge to welcome visitors, recreating the atmosphere of the Imperial Tet (Lunar New Year) with unique rituals and artistic activities.

On February 17th (the first day of the Lunar New Year, Year of the Horse 2026), the Hue Imperial Citadel became a focal point attracting a large number of tourists. From early morning, long lines of locals and international visitors gathered in front of the Ngo Mon Gate to await the moment of "first-footing" this most important heritage site of the ancient capital.

According to the Hue Imperial Citadel Conservation Center, on the first day of the Lunar New Year, the center implemented a policy of free entry for all Vietnamese visitors. This is an opportunity for people to admire the heritage and experience the traditional Tet atmosphere in the former Imperial Palace. The weather in Hue on the first morning of the year was quite ideal with cool air and gentle spring rain, creating favorable conditions for outdoor sightseeing activities.

Recreating solemn court rituals.

A highlight that attracts visitors' attention at Ngo Mon Gate is the Changing of the Guard ceremony, a meticulously recreated military ritual from the Nguyen Dynasty. With costumes and props closely resembling the original, the ceremony not only contributes to preserving cultural and historical values ​​but also creates a vivid experience for viewers.

Immediately following the Changing of the Guard ceremony, the cannon firing and gift-giving to the first guests created a joyful atmosphere. In addition, performances of traditional Hue court music, including classical and folk songs, continuously took place in front of the Thai Hoa Palace, showcasing the distinctive sounds of Hue's royal court music.

Experience Tet (Vietnamese Lunar New Year) of the past through traditional folk games.

The cultural atmosphere of Tet (Lunar New Year) in the Imperial Palace becomes even more vibrant with hands-on activities. Visitors have the opportunity to admire calligraphy art, receive auspicious blessings for the new year, and participate in traditional court games such as fortune telling, card games, poetry recitation, and traditional games like "dau ho" (a traditional Vietnamese game).

Besides the Imperial Citadel, other historical sites such as the tombs of Gia Long, Minh Mang, Tu Duc, and Khai Dinh, and the Hue Royal Antiquities Museum, also offered free entry to domestic tourists on the first day of the Lunar New Year. Mr. Hoang Viet Trung, Director of the Hue Ancient Citadel Conservation Center, said that a large number of visitors gathered due to the preferential policies on the first day of the year.

To serve tourists throughout the holiday period, cultural activities, traditional martial arts performances, and court art will continue to be maintained. It is expected that on the 2nd and 3rd days of Tet (Lunar New Year), the lion and dragon dance performances will be the next highlight attracting visitors to the ancient capital.

Source: https://baodanang.vn/hue-hang-nghin-du-khach-xong-dat-dai-noi-ngay-mung-1-tet-binh-ngo-2026-3324814.html