When talking about the ancient capital of Hue, tourists often picture the Perfume River running through the city’s downtown. However, few realize that Hue is also home to Ngu Ha River, a quiet waterway that historically divided the Imperial Citadel into northern and southern parts.
Ngu Ha is an artificial river, or canal, behind the Imperial Citadel that serves several important functions: transporting food supplies, providing water for daily use, and draining floodwaters during the rainy season. It was first dug around 1805 during Emperor Gia Long’s reign, initially connecting the Dong Ba River to Vo Kho (the armory of the Nguyen Dynasty) and was named Thanh Cau.
Under Emperor Minh Mang, the river was extended further in 1825 to connect with the Dong Ba River and Ke Van River on the east and west sides of the citadel. The name Ngu Ha (Imperial River) was then created as part of the collection of assets linked to the Imperial Palace and the Nguyen Dynasty.
Today, Ngu Ha River has been restored to its original space and flow. If visitors have the chance to take a small boat from Dong Ba Gate, pass through Gia Hoi, and then turn into Ngu Ha, they will find a peaceful river with deep blue-green waters and beautiful scenery lining both banks.
