Thien Mu Pagoda

Thien Mu Pagoda is Hue's most recognisable landmark and one of the oldest religious sites in the country, founded in 1601 under Lord Nguyen Hoang. The seven-storey Phuoc Duyen tower — each storey dedicated to a human-form Buddha — has been the symbol of Hue for four centuries, standing on a promontory above the Perfume River where it can be seen for kilometres in either direction. Behind the tower, the working pagoda complex includes prayer halls, monk residences, and a garden of stone stelae. In the garage sits a sky-blue Austin car: the vehicle that drove monk Thich Quang Duc to Saigon for his 1963 self-immolation protest.

Free entry. Located 5 km upstream from Hue city centre on the north bank of the Perfume River. Most visitors arrive by dragon boat as part of a river tour. Open daily; dress modestly.

Hotel recommendations coming soon.