Japan supports heritage conservation efforts in Hue city

Japan has helped conserve the tangible and intangible values of the Complex of Hue Monuments – a world heritage site in Hue, the imperial capital of Vietnam during the Nguyen Dynasty.

Japan began providing aid for relic conservation in Hue (the central province of Thua Thien-Hue) in 1990. The first large-scale project with Japanese funding, 100,000 USD, was to restore the Ngo Mon (Noon Gate) – the main gate to the Hoang Thanh (Imperial City) and a symbol of Hue.

Japan’s total funding for the city has amounted to more than 4.6 million USD, compared to the total foreign sponsorship of 10 million USD for culture-related activities in the Complex of Hue Monuments.

The UNESCO World Heritage Institute of Japan’s Waseda University is working with the Hue Monuments Conservation Centre to study local traditional architecture to preserve relics under the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 – 1945). They focus on the Can Chanh Palace, which was destroyed in 1947 during war. This project hopes to receive funding from the Japanese Government.

Phan Thanh Hai, Director of the Hue Monuments Conservation Centre, said advanced techniques have been applied to restore monuments thanks to Japan’s sponsorship.

He added his centre has been coordinating with Waseda University to conduct a study to restore the cultural scenery in the basin of the Huong River between 2016 and 2018. It also worked with the All Japan Society of Architects to hold a seminar on conserving traditional wooden structures.

Additionally, the centre and the Osaka-based International Research Centre for Intangible Cultural Heritage in the Asia-Pacific Region are working to devise measures to preserve intangible cultural heritage amid natural disasters.

Hai said aside from restoration support, Japan has helped in personnel training and technology transfer for the conservation of Nha Nhac (Vietnamese court music).

He said that the country financed an action plan on the conservation and promotion of Nha Nhac and a project on Nha Nhac conservation, research and training activities. They have formed a foundation for the study, documentation and teaching of Nha Nhac skills to younger generations while raising awareness of the heritage among locals and foreigners.

Japan currently ranks eighth among the top 10 sources of foreign tourists to Hue. More than 25,100 Japanese visitors came to the city in 2016, accounting for 4.14 percent of foreign holiday makers.

VNA

Other News

Reasons why Phu Quoc shines even during rainy season

Reasons why Phu Quoc shines even during rainy season

Recently named by Expedia among the "10 Best Islands to Visit in 2026" for offering premium holidays at reasonable prices, Phu Quoc is far from being just a dry season destination. Even during the rainy months, Pearl Island offers enough experiences to fill every hour of the day, with short tropical showers rarely disrupting the journey.

Van Phuc silk weaving village officially recognised as Hanoi tourist destination

Van Phuc silk weaving village officially recognised as Hanoi tourist destination

With its millennia-old heritage and growing integration of preservation and innovation, Van Phuc silk weaving village is poised to become a distinctive cultural destination, helping promote Hanoi’s sustainable cultural tourism and bring the quintessence of Vietnamese silk weaving closer to domestic and international visitors.

Ho Chi Minh City: Free bus fares drive increase in bus, metro ridership

Ho Chi Minh City: Free bus fares drive increase in bus, metro ridership

According to Deputy Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Public Transport Management Centre Le Hoan, the bus network operated nearly 478,000 trips in July, serving more than 8.48 million passengers. Weekly growth accelerated throughout the month, rising from 33% in the first week to 45% in the fourth week.

My Son inscriptions set sights on UNESCO documentary heritage status

My Son inscriptions set sights on UNESCO documentary heritage status

Located in Thu Bon commune, Da Nang city, My Son is renowned for its architectural heritage, but it also preserves an exceptional archive engraved on stone. These inscriptions have enabled scholars to unravel the history of the sanctuary and trace the rise and development of the ancient Champa kingdom over many centuries.

Hanoi brings new life to suburban tourism villages

Hanoi brings new life to suburban tourism villages

Hanoi has long been known for the heritage cachet of a thousand-year-old capital. Hoan Kiem Lake, the Old Quarter, the Temple of Literature, the Thang Long Imperial Citadel and a network of craft villages have given the city a singular pull.

Resolution paves way for Vietnam to unleash soft power

Resolution paves way for Vietnam to unleash soft power

The implementation of Resolution No. 06 alongside the cultural diplomacy strategy sends a clear message: by combining its rich cultural heritage with proactive diplomacy, innovation and digital transformation, Vietnam would strengthen its competitiveness on the global stage.

Vietnam Summer Camp 2026 wrapped up

Vietnam Summer Camp 2026 wrapped up

Held from July 12 to 25 across eight cities and provinces, Vietnam Summer Camp 2026 offered a rich array of experiences. Participants explored historical landmarks, visited iconic cultural heritage sites such as the imperial city of Hue, Hoi An ancient town, and the My Son Sanctuary, and engaged in charitable activities valued at over 300 million VND (11,400 USD), including the installation of a "Youth Bookshelf."

Enjoy Danang Festival 2026 kicks off

Enjoy Danang Festival 2026 kicks off

The Enjoy Danang Festival 2026 features a rural market-themed culinary space at East Sea Park showcasing Quang region cuisine, a beachfront art route, a light kite night featuring around 500 illuminated kites, and a seaside light party combining visual arts, music and local cuisine.

Railways reinvent themselves with tourism, heritage trains

Railways reinvent themselves with tourism, heritage trains

One of the most notable successes is the premium Hoa Phuong Do (Flamboyant Flower) train operating between Hanoi and Hai Phong city. Since entering service in May 2025, the train has completed nearly 3,000 trips and carried around 1.33 million passengers.

Da Nang proves Lonely Planet right as Asia's must visit summer destination

Da Nang proves Lonely Planet right as Asia's must visit summer destination

According to Lonely Planet, Da Nang stands out for its harmonious blend of beautiful beaches, an energetic yet relaxed lifestyle, a rich culinary scene and a diverse range of experiences spanning nature, culture, leisure and entertainment. The city is also praised as an ideal gateway to central Vietnam, offering convenient access to Hoi An, Hue and My Son Sanctuary.

Vietnam invites travellers on multi-sensory journey

Vietnam invites travellers on multi-sensory journey

Vietnam's appeal lies not in a single attraction but in the seamless combination of authentic experiences rooted in local culture. From colourful highland markets and traditional festivals to centuries-old craft villages, all remain an integral part of everyday life.

Promoting souvenir industry to spread national image

Promoting souvenir industry to spread national image

Experts said that with market-oriented development, improved functionality, stronger storytelling and greater involvement from designers, businesses and market-connecting organisations, souvenirs could become a bridge linking Vietnam with the world while contributing to the growth of cultural industries and the creative economy.

Interactive sound exhibition breathes new life into cultural heritage

Interactive sound exhibition breathes new life into cultural heritage

One of the exhibition's highlights is the "Our Sound" installation, where visitors become part of the artwork itself. As multiple participants interact simultaneously, sound and light merge into a shared composition, conveying messages of connection, sharing and collective responsibility for building sustainable communities in harmony with nature.