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Today, although it no longer possesses the splendor of the past, Bao Vinh ancient town still retains its antique beauty, imbued with the breath of time, making it an unmissable destination for those who want to explore the unique culture of Hue.
The serene beauty of a former trading port.
Bao Vinh was formed in the 17th century, when waterway trade flourished. Thanks to its advantageous location next to the Perfume River, it quickly became a major trading port, a center for the exchange of goods and culture between Vietnam and many countries in the region. According to ancient historical records, Bao Vinh was once vibrant with large ships, bustling trading streets, and lively alleyways.
Thanks to its advantageous location, it quickly became a major trading port, a hub for the exchange of goods and culture between Vietnam and many countries in the region.
Walking along the narrow streets of Bao Vinh today, one feels as if they have stepped into a different space, where time seems to stand still. Ancient wooden houses with intricately carved wooden doors still retain their historical charm. However, many houses in the old town have deteriorated due to time and the changes of modern life, with only a few still retaining their original form.
Most of the houses here feature the traditional Hue-style stilt house architecture.
The houses here mostly feature the traditional Hue-style architecture, with moss-covered yin-yang tiled roofs and sturdy ironwood pillars and beams, yet they are not tall or grand. This humility and simplicity create a warm and intimate atmosphere. The low roofs seem to reflect the character of the people of Bao Vinh: simple, quiet, and deeply attached to their homeland. Stepping through these houses, visitors can't help but feel as if they've traveled back in time, touching upon layers of memories from a bygone era, still preserved in each tile and each time-worn wooden door.
The low roofs of the houses seem to reflect the character of the people of Bao Vinh: simple, quiet, and deeply attached to their homeland.
The essence of Hue in everyday life.
Bao Vinh Market is one of the ancient markets that still exists from the prosperous era of the old town. Despite its small size, the market is bustling in the mornings, with the lively sounds of buyers and sellers filling the air in a warm atmosphere. Ms. Nguyen Thi Lan (58 years old), who has sold goods at Bao Vinh Market for over 30 years, reminisces: “In the old days, the old town was very lively, with houses close together and a constant stream of traders. Now it’s much quieter, but I still keep this small stall to continue the family tradition.”
For Ms. Lan, Bao Vinh market is not just a place to earn a living, but also a place that preserves memories of a bygone era of prosperity. The market is still a place where locals gather to exchange goods, but now it has taken on a new character, attracting tourists who come to visit and learn about the local culture.
What makes Bao Vinh special is not only its ancient architecture but also its slow, tranquil pace of life.
A market that possesses a peaceful, simple, and very endearing charm.
This market doesn't have many customers, so there aren't many goods here.
What makes Bao Vinh special is not only its ancient architecture but also its slow, tranquil pace of life, a far cry from the hustle and bustle of modern tourist cities. Early in the morning, on the riverbank, locals still row boats, cast nets, and catch fish. Small roadside stalls still sell simple dishes like Hue beef noodle soup, Nam Pho rice noodle soup, banh beo, and banh nam, all rich in the flavors of the imperial city. This scene seems to perfectly preserve the image of a dreamy, peaceful, and poetic Hue.
The Nam Pho noodle soup stall is deserted on a rainy afternoon.
The narrow alleyway is steeped in the colors of time.
The houses are built close together, and the embankment, constructed during the French colonial era, stretches along this entire road.
Many tourists also expressed similar feelings when experiencing the slow, simple pace of life in the old town. “The scenery here isn't as glamorous as other tourist destinations, but it's the simplicity and intimacy that makes me feel attached. The boats on the Perfume River, the winding narrow alleys, and the enthusiastic locals give Bao Vinh its own unique charm,” said Tuan Minh, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City.
Although Bao Vinh no longer retains its former bustling atmosphere, its historical and cultural values still resonate. The government and conservation agencies are planning to restore and develop the old town to attract tourists, aiming to revive a part of the once glorious Bao Vinh. Programs to preserve cultural heritage, restore traditional crafts, and encourage local people to participate in tourism activities are among the approaches being considered to retain the unique character of this old town.
The famous cafe featured in the movie "Mắt Biếc" (Blue Eyes).
Bao Vinh is not just a tourist destination, but also an indispensable part of Hue's memory, preserving the unique spiritual and cultural values of the ancient capital. Those who love Hue, upon visiting, will experience its nostalgic beauty, unique tranquility, and the glorious historical imprints of a bygone era.
