Hue (VNA) - The People’s Committee of Hue city has officially announced the opening of a 3.5-kilometre inland waterway along the Ngu Ha River, set to commence operations on April 10.
The move is seen as the first step in implementing an electric boat tourism project, expected to be rolled out during the Liberation of the South and National Reunification Day (April 30) holiday, offering a new approach to exploring heritage spaces through environmentally friendly waterways.
According to Decision No. 1015/QD-UBND, signed by Vice Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Hoang Hai Minh, the designated route stretches from the downstream section of Thanh Long bridge where the Dong Ba and Ngu Ha rivers meet to the upstream area of Thuy Quan railway bridge, at the confluence of the Ke Van and Ngu Ha rivers. The route is suitable for small-sized vessels.
The city’s Department of Construction has been assigned to coordinate with local authorities and relevant agencies to manage, maintain, and operate the route in compliance with technical standards and legal regulations.
The Ngu Ha River, an artificial waterway dating back to the Nguyen Dynasty (1802–1945), runs through the heart of the Imperial City and historically served as a transport route, defensive line, and key landscape axis. In recent years, it has mainly functioned for drainage and environmental regulation. The reopening of the waterway is expected not only to restore its transport role but also to unlock its cultural and scenic value as a heritage river.
In parallel, authorities are advancing a project to introduce electric-powered tourist boats along the Ngu Ha River and its tributaries. The initial phase in 2026 is expected to deploy between 10 - 15 boats, designed to harmonise with the heritage setting while ensuring safety and operational standards. The vessels have reportedly completed registration, inspection, and trial operations on the Huong River and nearby waterways.
The project envisions three main tourism products: transporting visitors after touring the Hue Imperial Citadel to other attractions; bringing visitors from outside into the heritage area; and providing experiential services such as sightseeing, photography, culinary experiences, and cultural activities on the water.
The electric boat model is designed to promote green tourism by reducing emissions and aligning with sustainable development goals, while offering visitors a novel way to experience Hue’s heritage landscape./.
Hue unveils vibrant summer festival series to draw April holiday crowds
From April 24 to May 2, the “Imperial Cuisine Space” at the Hue Imperial Citadel will open each afternoon, offering visitors an immersive culinary experience combining royal court gastronomy with traditional local flavours. The venue is expected to become a popular stop before evening tours of the citadel.
