Hue served as Vietnam's political capital from 1802 to 1945 under the rule of the 13 emperors of the Nguyen Dynasty. Traditionally, the city has been one of Vietnam's cultural, religious and educational centers and the countryside around Hue is a great way to discover the "real" Vietnam. This half day tour will take you to Thanh Toan Village with its historic bridge and to the north of Hue City, the wonderful 500-year old village of Phuoc Tich.

Depart the centre of Hue at 0830 along quiet country lanes to Thanh Toan Bridge, along the way pass by villages, quaint shrines and endless rice fields.

Built two centuries ago the covered bridge is unique in that only two exist in Vietnam (the other being in Hoi An). Built as a tribute to the villagers by the wife of a high ranking Mandarin, the bridge has survived storms, floods and wars however after it was damaged, the villagers always contributed to repair, renovate and preserve it. Next to the bridge is the local village morning market which can be explored if you desire.

After visiting Thanh Toan it's an hour drive north to the 500-year-old village of Phuoc Tich. Once famous and prosperous because of its pottery, the village has dozens of homes that are from 100 to 200 years old and several old temples, pagodas, worship halls and communal houses still remain. Many imprints of Champa and ancient Viet cultures are still preserved such as lingas (a very complex symbol of Hinduism). The religious culture of the village is seen via families, which have their own ancestor worship halls, each worshiping five direct generations. Following the visit of Phuoc Tich drive back to Hue where you will arrive around lunchtime.

Meals : Breakfast , Lunch