Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam, enchants visitors not only with its historic mausoleums and solemn pagodas but also with the magical beauty of the Perfume River at night. As darkness descends, the Perfume River dons a new cloak, sparkling and mysterious like never before. In this tranquil setting, the experience of releasing flower lanterns on the Perfume River becomes a unique spiritual and cultural activity, offering visitors unforgettable emotions and a chance to immerse themselves in the slow, peaceful rhythm of Hue.
Perfume River by Night: A Symphony of Light and Shadow
The Perfume River is already an icon of Hue, gently winding like a blue silk ribbon across the city. During the day, the Perfume River exudes a gentle, peaceful beauty, reflecting ancient architectural works and lush green trees. But as night falls, the Perfume River transforms unexpectedly. Lights from Trang Tien Bridge, Da Vien Bridge, and the shimmering electric lights from the streets cast onto the river surface, creating a vivid and magical watercolor painting.
On the peaceful river, dragon boats glide gently, carrying tourists and the melodious tunes of Hue Royal Court Music (Ca Hue). The sounds of zithers and flutes blend with the sweet vocals of the artists, emanating from the boats and spreading throughout the quiet space. This scene is not just an artistic performance but also an indispensable part of Hue’s culture, a unique spiritual treat that anyone visiting Hue should experience.
Releasing Flower Lanterns: A Beautiful Spiritual Culture
Amidst the symphony of light and music on the Perfume River, the experience of releasing flower lanterns emerges as a special highlight, imbued with cultural and spiritual values. Releasing flower lanterns is not just a simple entertainment activity but also a traditional ritual, expressing wishes for peace, luck, and happiness.
According to folk beliefs, these small, shimmering flower lanterns drifting on the river not only carry light but also the wishes and innermost thoughts of people. When releasing lanterns into the river, people believe that good wishes will spread everywhere with the light, and worries and anxieties will drift away with the water, bringing serenity and peace of mind.
The experience of releasing flower lanterns on the Perfume River is often combined with Ca Hue performances. When the dragon boat reaches the area near Van Lau wharf, visitors will be guided to release lanterns. Each person can light their own candle, illuminate their flower lantern, and gently place it on the river. Watching hundreds of shimmering lanterns floating on the water, forming a magical river of light, will surely be a memorable moment in the journey of exploring Hue.
Ca Hue traditional music performance on a dragon boat in Hue's Perfume River
Ca Hue – a unique art form not to be missed when visiting Hue, often performed on dragon boats on the Perfume River.
Ca Hue and Flower Lanterns: A Perfect Combination
Ca Hue and releasing flower lanterns are two distinctive cultural activities that, when combined, create a more complete and profound experience for visitors. Ca Hue brings a traditional musical space, rich in Hue’s identity, while releasing flower lanterns is a spiritual experience, helping visitors to calm their minds and pray.
In the magical atmosphere of the Perfume River at night, the melodious sounds of zithers and flutes of Ca Hue intertwine with the shimmering light of flower lanterns, creating a romantic and poetic ambiance. Visitors can enjoy the sweet melodies of Ca Hue and participate in the meaningful ritual of releasing flower lanterns, feeling the intersection of culture and spirituality.
The ideal time to experience Ca Hue and release flower lanterns is in the evening, when the Perfume River is lit up and the atmosphere becomes cool and pleasant. Visitors can choose Ca Hue performance slots on dragon boats, usually starting from 7:00 PM or 8:00 PM daily.
Close-up of Ca Hue musicians playing traditional instruments, highlighting the art form's unique sound
The combination of the sweet sounds of artists and traditional musical instruments creates a special impression for Ca Hue.
Guide to Experiencing Flower Lantern Release and Listening to Ca Hue on the Perfume River
To have a memorable experience of releasing flower lanterns and listening to Ca Hue on the Perfume River, visitors can refer to some information and tips below:
1. Choose a Program and Book Tickets:
Currently, many units organize Ca Hue programs on the Perfume River combined with flower lantern releases. Visitors can easily find and book tickets through travel companies, online websites, or buy tickets directly at the boat pier.
There are two popular forms: shared tour tickets and private boat rentals. Shared tour tickets are suitable for solo travelers or small groups, with ticket prices ranging from VND 100,000 to VND 150,000 per person. Private boat rentals are suitable for large groups or families, with ticket prices ranging from VND 1,200,000 to VND 1,500,000 per boat (depending on the number of seats).
2. Time and Location:
Ca Hue programs usually take place in the evening, from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, with two main slots. The meeting point and boarding point is often Toa Kham pier (48 Le Loi, Hue). Visitors should arrive early before departure time to settle in and prepare for the journey.
3. Preparation and Notes:
- Attire: Choose polite, comfortable clothing suitable for the cultural space and evening weather in Hue.
- Flower lanterns: Usually, flower lanterns are provided free of charge in the Ca Hue program. However, visitors can also prepare their own flower lanterns if they wish.
- Weather: Check the weather forecast before participating in the program. If it rains or the weather is bad, the program may be canceled or postponed.
- Safety: Follow the instructions of the staff on the boat and ensure safety throughout the journey.
Releasing flower lanterns on the Perfume River in Hue, a spiritual and cultural tradition
Releasing flower lanterns – a beautiful spiritual cultural feature on the Perfume River, Hue.
Conclusion
Experiencing flower lantern release on the Perfume River is not just a simple tourist activity but also a journey to explore deep culture and spirituality. In the poetic space of the Perfume River by night, visitors not only enjoy traditional Ca Hue melodies but also immerse themselves in the meaningful ritual of releasing flower lanterns, praying for peace and happiness. If you have the opportunity to visit Hue, do not miss the chance to experience this memorable moment, to fully feel the gentle and profound beauty of the ancient capital.