1. Overview of Kinh Thien Palace
1.1. Location
Kinh Thien Palace is a central monument within the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, a significant historical site in Hanoi, Vietnam. Located at 19C Hoang Dieu, Ba Dinh District, the Imperial Citadel encompasses the palace at its core, reflecting its significance within the complex.
1.2. Opening hours & entrance fee
The Imperial Citadel of Thang Long welcomes visitors every day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. As of now, the entrance fee is 70,000 VND/ person. Starting from January 1, 2025, the fee will increase to 100,000 VND/ person.
*This information is for reference purposes only. Please contact the management board of the complex for the most up-to-date details.
1.3. History
Kinh Thien Palace, initially built in 1428 by King Le Thai To and completed during the reign of King Le Thanh Tong, is a significant historical site within the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long. It replaced the palaces of Can Nguyen and Thien An from the Ly and Tran dynasties. Despite the Nguyen Dynasty's major redevelopment of the citadel in the early 19th century, Kinh Thien Palace retained its location and was renamed Long Thien Palace in 1841. During the French colonial period, the palace was destroyed. Today, Kinh Thien Palace is remembered as a vital part of Vietnam's imperial heritage.
2. Things to do at Kinh Thien Palace
Kinh Thien Palace offers a rich cultural experience. Here are some activities to enhance your visit:
2.1. Marvel at stunning relics
At Kinh Thien Palace, visitors can admire the stunning remnants of its majestic architecture. The palace used to be a splendid wooden structure with two stories, eight roofs, and gracefully curved gable corners. The roof featured dragon motifs, which symbolized imperial authority. Today, the site retains the original foundation and the intricately carved stone steps. These steps are divided into three paths: a central path for the emperor and two side paths for courtiers. The dragon carving is 5.3 meters long. The steps also feature carvings of lotus flowers and Vietnamese phoenixes.
2.2. Capture memorable moments
You can make your visit to Kinh Thien Palace even more memorable by capturing stunning photos in traditional Vietnamese attire. Just next to the palace, Viet Phuc Hoang Thanh offers rentals of ao dai (Vietnamese traditional dress) and Viet phuc (Vietnamese royal attire), with fees starting from 80,000 VND per outfit. After payment, you can pose against the palace's backdrop and take photos in these traditional outfits. Additionally, you can explore nearby landmarks such as Hanoi Flag Tower, Doan Gate, or North Gate for more photo-worthy spots within the Imperial Citadel.
The blend of traditional clothing and historic architecture will create many visually captivating photos. Just be sure to return the outfits to the shop before it closes at 5 PM.
3. Tips for a memorable trip to Kinh Thien Palace
Visiting Kinh Thien Palace offers a unique glimpse into Vietnam's heritage. To ensure a memorable trip, consider the following tips:
3.1. Directions
To get to the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long, you can take a bus, catch a taxi, or rent a motorbike. The citadel is just a short distance away from Hoan Kiem Lake, so you will have no difficulty getting here by yourself. Parking is available right at the entrance at 19C Hoang Dieu Street. If you are fond of the bus, you can hop on buses number 22A, 23, 45, or 50, which all pass by the citadel.
3.2. Nearby attractions
After exploring Kinh Thien Palace, you can take the time to explore these nearby attractions:
- Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum (1.3 kilometers away): This monumental mausoleum is dedicated to Ho Chi Minh, the founding father of modern Vietnam. It is where Ho Chi Minh’s embalmed body is preserved and displayed.
- Temple of Literature (1.3 kilometers away): Established in 1070, this is Vietnam’s first university and a revered site dedicated to Confucius. It is a beautiful example of traditional Vietnamese architecture, featuring well-preserved courtyards, pavilions, and gates.
- Hanoi Old Quarter (2.1 kilometers away): This bustling area is characterized by narrow streets, old buildings, and small shops. It is also famous for street food, offering a diverse range of delicious Vietnamese dishes, from pho to banh mi.
- Hoan Kiem Lake (2.2 kilometers away): Often regarded as the center of Hanoi, this picturesque lake is surrounded by lush greenery and vibrant streets. The serene atmosphere makes it a beloved spot for both locals and tourists.
- Hanoi’s Botanical Garden (2 kilometers away): This tranquil oasis offers a peaceful escape from the city’s busy pace. It features a diverse collection of plant species, well-manicured lawns, and scenic walking paths.
3.3. Extra notes
To ensure a smooth visit to Imperial Citadel, please adhere to the following guidelines:
- Do not bring weapons, explosives, flammable materials, hazardous substances, or any items with strong odors into the site.
- Wear respectful clothing. Avoid revealing outfits.
- Avoid any behavior that could be considered disrespectful or disruptive, such as using vulgar language, vandalizing property, etc.
- Park your vehicle only in the designated area at the entrance.
- For any professional filming or photography activity, obtain permission from the management board of the site beforehand.
- Do not use camera drones on the site.
Kinh Thien Palace is a remarkable example of royal opulence, its rich history offering a glimpse into Vietnam's heritage. The visit will not only reveal the artistic achievements of the past but also provide a deep appreciation for the significance of this magnificent site.
After soaking in the ancient allure of the Imperial Citadel, take your time to retreat to Ocean City, located just east of Hanoi, for a refreshing escape. This vibrant destination is brimming with entertainment to ensure a memorable visit. Here, you can spend the day at VinWonders Wave Park & Water Park, where you can enjoy a range of water slides and wave pools suitable for all ages. Then, you can discover the dynamic Grand World, a hub of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.
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