The "Ethereal Imperial Palace" program, a highlight of the "Shining Imperial City" Summer Festival, drew crowds to Hue Imperial Palace on the evening of 25/4. Organized by the Hue Monuments Conservation Center, this free community event provided an opportunity for residents and tourists to experience the cultural heritage of the ancient capital.

Ngo Mon Square crowded with locals and visitors awaiting the change of guard ceremony.

The program began with the Hue Monuments Conservation Center reenacting the Nguyen Dynasty change of guard ritual at Ngo Mon Gate, combined with cannon fire effects.

Following the change of guard ritual, locals and visitors were granted free entry to Hue Imperial Palace.

Trung Dao Bridge, connecting Ngo Mon Gate to Thai Hoa Palace, glowed with torches and 3D mapping of imperial patterns. On both sides of the bridge, performers portrayed court ladies dancing with lanterns.

A highlight was the staged reenactment of the Thiet Trieu, recreating the solemn atmosphere of a Nguyen Dynasty court session before Thai Hoa Palace. Nguyen Van An, 26, a tourist from Hanoi, expressed his impression of the architecture and ethereal nighttime ambiance of Hue Imperial Palace during his first visit.

The military parade and drills east of Thai Hoa Palace reenacted the spirit of the Nguyen Dynasty army, featuring: flag dances, staff dances, spear and shield drills, and archery combined with fire effects.

In addition to court rituals, Phu Noi Vu also hosted aodai performances.

A South Korean art troupe performed Hanbok.

Ancient Nguyen Dynasty court games, such as do xam huong and bai vu, attracted many participants.

Andrea Teufel, a German restoration expert, praised the reenacted Nguyen Dynasty rituals. "Hue Imperial Palace is wonderful tonight, sparkling with light, especially the art programs. I am also impressed with the local food and souvenirs," Teufel stated. Complementing these events, the Hue Monuments Conservation Center established a food area at Phu Noi Vu, open from 24/4 to 2/5, catering to visitors before their nighttime exploration of Hue Imperial City.

Vo Thanh - Nguyen Manh