Travel photography: Central and southern Vietnam

December 30, 2024

This leg of the journey takes us to central and southern Vietnam, home to an incredible mix of historical, cultural, and natural landmarks. From the ancient imperial capital of Hue to the charming streets of Hoi An, and the modern cityscape of Da Nang to the surreal recreation of an Italian village in Phu Quoc, every destination offers a different experience.

The Historic Imperial City of Hue

The Imperial City of Hue, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, served as the political and cultural heart of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. Surrounded by a moat and fortified walls, this sprawling complex features palaces, temples, gardens, and ceremonial gates that reflect traditional Vietnamese architecture and intricate craftsmanship. Though heavily damaged during wars, restoration efforts have brought back much of its former glory.

A tranquil view of Hue's Imperial City, surrounded by a moat and lush greenery.

Beautifully preserved gates within the Imperial City of Hue, leading to inner courtyards.

A peaceful courtyard featuring traditional Vietnamese architecture.

The Imperial City is not only renowned for its historical significance but also for its exquisite gardens and the presence of bonsai trees. Bonsai, an ancient Japanese art form, has been embraced in Vietnam, where it has evolved into a unique cultural expression. Vietnamese bonsai artists skillfully shape and cultivate trees, often using indigenous species, to create miniature landscapes that reflect the harmony between nature and humanity.

An Dinh Palace

Built in the early 20th century as a private residence for Prince Nguyen Phuc Buu Dao, who later became Emperor Khai Dinh, An Dinh Palace is a stunning blend of traditional Vietnamese design and French colonial architecture. The palace's intricate decorations, murals, and European-style facades make it a unique landmark in Hue.

A closer view of the intricately decorated entrance to An Dinh Palace.

Hoi An

Hoi An, also a UNESCO-listed ancient town, is famed for its well-preserved architecture and vibrant cultural heritage. Once a bustling trading port in the 15th century, Hoi An now enchants visitors with its lantern-lit streets, historic buildings painted in yellow hues, and a rich blend of Vietnamese, Chinese, and Japanese influences.

Hoi An’s lantern-lit river at night, creating a magical and serene atmosphere.

Display of multicolored lanterns in Hoi An’s traditional market.

The streets of Hoi An are an enchanting sight, especially in the early hours of the morning. I set out before sunrise, hoping to capture the historic alleys in the soft morning light. In Europe I am used to having the streets to myself at this early hour, however even at 6 a.m., the streets of Hoi An were already alive with activity. Locals were busy with their morning routines, and to my surprise, many Asian tourists were already out, taking pictures - a stark cultural difference I dind't anticipate.

A market stall with figurines made from ceramic and wood.

Ba Na Hills

The Ba Na Hills area, perched atop Truong Son Mountains, offers a mix of serene pagodas, lush greenery, and panoramic viewpoints. Originally founded in 1919 by French colonists, it served as a hill station and retreat for the French elite, offering a cool respite from the tropical heat of Vietnam. During this period, the area was home to villas, gardens, and recreational facilities, creating a luxurious getaway in the mountains. However, after the French left, the site fell into neglect and was largely forgotten.

In the early 21st century, Ba Na Hills experienced a dramatic transformation when it was redeveloped into a major tourist attraction. The centerpiece of this redevelopment is the French Village, an architectural replica of a medieval European town.

In addition to the French Village, the area features attractions such as the famous Golden Bridge, supported by giant stone hands, and a series of gardens, pagodas, and entertainment facilities. Ba Na Hills has become a symbol of modern tourism in Vietnam, blending cultural nostalgia with imaginative design to create a somewhat surreal experience for its visitors.

A panoramic view of Da Nang, with its coastline and sprawling cityscape visible from Ba Na Hills.

Đỉnh núi Chúa Pagoda, surrounded by lush greenery.

The famous Golden Bridge, supported by giant stone hands, amidst mountains.

Linh Phong Stupa within the Ba Na Hills complex, overlooking the surrounding landscape.

Da Nang

Da Nang, a bustling coastal city in central Vietnam, is renowned for its beaches, nightlife, and iconic bridges. Among its most famous landmarks is the Dragon Bridge, an architectural marvel shaped like a dragon, symbolizing power and prosperity. This modern city offers a mix of natural beauty and urban attractions, making it a key destination.

The Dragon Bridge illuminated at night. It is known for its ability to breathe fire and water during special events.

Saigon

Ho Chi Minh City, commonly referred to as Saigon, is Vietnam's largest city and its bustling economic and cultural hub. With a rich colonial history, Saigon is home to iconic French-inspired architecture like the City Hall and the Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica. It also serves as a tribute to its namesake, Ho Chi Minh, the revolutionary leader who played a pivotal role in Vietnam's independence.

The iconic Ho Chi Minh City Hall, a historic French colonial building.

A closer view of the statue of Ho Chi Minh, honoring the revolutionary leader and first president of Vietnam.

Sunset Town: Vietnam's "Italian" Village

Sunset Town in Phu Quoc is an ambitious development, designed to emulate a Mediterranean coastal village with colorful facades, cobblestone streets, and European-style architecture. The project aims to create a vibrant tourist destination, complete with attractions like the Kiss Bridge and nightly entertainment.

However, during my visit, the reality starkly contrasted with the vision. The area felt eerily deserted, with only a handful of visitors present. The beaches and streets were largely empty, and most shops appeared vacant or closed. This lack of activity gave the town an uncanny, almost surreal atmosphere, raising questions about the project's appeal.

This observation aligns with reports from other visitors who have described Sunset Town as a "ghost town," noting the juxtaposition of opulent structures amidst sparsely populated surroundings.

Sunset Town in Phu Quoc, with its artificial Mediterranean-style architecture.

To be continued...

In the next article, we will leave Vietnam and head over to Thailand.

Thanks for reading!