Standing as a testament to Vietnam’s imperial heritage, Hien Lam Pavilion (Hiển Lâm Các) in Hue City captivates visitors with its three-storey wooden structure and exquisite craftsmanship. Built during Emperor Minh Mang‘s reign in the early 19th century, this architectural gem commemorates the Nguyen Dynasty‘s emperors and meritorious mandarins. Its intricate dragon carvings, impressive structural design, and historical significance make it an essential destination for travelers seeking to immerse themselves in Vietnam’s rich cultural past.
Overview of Hien Lam Pavilion
Constructed between 1821-1822 under Emperor Minh Mang’s directive, Hiển Lâm Pavilion stands majestically before Thế Miếu temple as a memorial to Nguyen Dynasty emperors and distinguished mandarins. Its architectural brilliance begins with a rectangular Bát Tràng brick foundation accessed by two nine-step dragon-adorned staircases.
The first floor features three compartments with simplified dragon carvings and a central entrance—historically reserved for the Emperor—displaying a magnificent gilded board inscribed “Hiển Lâm Các” surrounded by nine dragons. The second storey, reached via an ornate staircase, is encircled by decorated wooden railings and supported by four main and four subsidiary pillars. The third storey consists of a single compartment crowned with a masterfully engineered roof adorned with yellow enamel wine-skins on colorful enamel clouds.
Having withstood nearly two centuries, this architectural masterpiece showcases the exceptional talent of Vietnam’s traditional carpenters and remains one of Hue’s most valuable historical treasures.
How to get to Hien Lam Pavilion
Address: Hai Muoi Ba Thang Tam street, Phu Hau ward, Hue city
Things to Know
| Opening hours: | 7:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily |
| Entrance fee: | Included in the Imperial City ticket (200,000 VND for adults; 40,000 VND for children 7-12) |
| Visitor tips: | Early morning (7-9 AM) or late afternoon (3-5 PM) to avoid crowds and heat 15-20 minutes for the pavilion itself; 2-3 hours for the entire Imperial City |
| Nearby attractions: | Thế Miếu Temple Nine Dynastic Urns Tổ Miếu Temple Complex |
Experience the architectural splendor of Hiển Lâm Pavilion firsthand with HueSmileTravel‘s guided cultural tours of Hue’s imperial wonders!
