Tinh Tam Lake

Tinh Tam Lake (Vietnamese: hồ Tịnh Tâm) is a renowned scenic site located within the Hue Imperial Citadel, celebrated for its elegant beauty and the sophisticated landscape artistry developed during the Nguyen Dynasty. Once a retreat and leisure spot for the emperors, Tinh Tam Lake holds not only architectural significance but also offers a glimpse into the royal family’s spiritual life and refined pastimes.

Overview of Tinh Tam Lake

Before becoming an imperial landmark, this area was part of an old river that was transformed into a lake during the reign of Emperor Gia Long and named Ky Te Lake. In 1838, Emperor Minh Mang ordered the site to be renovated and expanded with various architectural structures, after which it was renamed Tinh Tam Lake.

A defining feature of Tinh Tam Lake is its landscape design, which follows the style of an Eastern imperial garden. Three artificial islands, named Bong Lai, Phuong Truong, and Doanh Chau, sit in the middle of the lake, inspired by the mythical islands of the immortals found in traditional folklore.

The lake was laid out as a unique garden complex, harmonizing water surfaces, artificial islands, bridges, pavilions, and lush vegetation. It served as a sanctuary where emperors and the royal family could relax, take in the scenery, and enjoy nature’s beauty.

Rectangular in shape, Tinh Tam Lake has a perimeter of nearly 1,500 meters and is enclosed by a brick wall featuring four gateways. The islands and the lake’s shoreline are planted with willows, bamboo, and exotic flora, while the waters are home to white lotus, once cultivated specifically for the royal family’s enjoyment.

When the lotus flowers bloom, they blanket the lake’s surface, creating a serene atmosphere that has long inspired imperial poetry. Emperor Thieu Tri once included Tinh Tam Lake in the “Twenty Scenic Spots of the Capital” and celebrated it in his poetry and prose.

Tinh Tam Lake

• Location: Located on Dinh Tien Hoang Street, intersecting Tinh Tam Street, Thuan Thanh Ward, Hue City.
• Entrance fee: free
• Nearby tourist spots: Nine Dynastic Urns, Dien Tho Palace, Thai Hoa Palace, Co Ha Garden…