1 Overview of the Hai Van Gate
Hai Van Quan in vietnamese means: Ocean Cloud Gate (Hai: Ocean, Van: Cloud, Quan: gate). In this post we can use two noun phrase to show this historic site.
Hai Van pass is famous in TV or many News Paper in the the world, but not many news talk about Hai Van Gate, or it has short description is the ruin in the top of Hai Van Mountain. Hai Van Quan is the must-see when you’re visiting central land on the way transfer between Hue and Da Nang city. Nestled atop Hai Van Pass, Hai Van Quan offers breathtaking views of the Bien Dong (east sea vietnam)
Located at 496 meters above sea level, Hai Van Quan has many profound historical, architectural and geography values. Hai Van Quan historic site offers a glimpse into the history of Vietnam in 19 century and stunning lanscape of the pass.
Hai Van gate Built in 1826 under the reign of Minh Mang King (the 2nd king of Nguyen Dynasty), Hai Van Gate was part of a series of defensive structures constructed to protect the imperial capital of Hue. Although abandoned for long time nearly 200 year old, until 2024, the monument has been restored and reopened to tourists.
2 Historical value of Hai Van Gate
The first purpose of building Hai Van Gate was to serve as a defensive structure to protect the Hue Imperial Citadel. King Minh Mang ordered the construction of a gate on Hai Van mountain, which was the only gateway connecting Hue Citadel with the southern provinces., and Hai Van Quan was part of a series of fortifications aimed at safeguarding the region from potential invasions. And control boat, war cruise in the east sea.
2.1 Where is the Hai Van Gate?
Hai Van Gate is located about 77 km from Hue city center and 30 km from Da Nang city, so visitors can easily get here. Located right at the top of Hai Van Pass, the iconic Hai Van Gate is a must see. This historic gate not only offers stunning panoramic views of the mountains and sea, but also holds a rich history that attracts many visitors.
The combination of natural beauty and historical significance makes this place an essential stop for anyone who wants to experience this part of Vietnam.
Among the 9 great bronze urn that King Minh Mang had cast and erected in front of The Mieu Temple, if you are curious and find cauldron number 8, named Du Urn, you will see a very beautiful relief of Hai Van Quan lying on it along with other famous places of Vietnam. Nine Dynasty Urns in Hue recognized as UNESCO Memory of the World
2.2 Hai Van Quan Contruction after restoration
The project was researched and restored closely to the architecture of the Nguyen Dynasty, with the main gate using brick, surrounded by stone walls. In the middle of the gate, there is the inscription “Hai Van Quan” engraved in Chinese characters.
From the main gate of Hai Van Quan looking into the residence building. The residence and the three-room armory were restored according to archaeological traces and documentary photos. The house is built with brick walls, wooden pillars with stone bases, and a tiled roof.
The two structures, the three-room armory (on the left) and the residence, were places to store and preserve the weapons of the court and served as resting and working places for the soldiers who guarded the area.
The path through the auxiliary gate leads with an arched roof, brick assembly, surrounded by stone walls.
From this position, looking south, you can see Da Nang with Tien Sa port – Son Tra peninsula, and long stretches of white sand embracing the coastline.
Looking north, you can see Lang Co Bay, picturesque with winding mountain roads and drifting white clouds.
A corner of the solemn and majestic Hai Van Quan overlooking Lang Co Bay. The panoramic view highlights the importance of this defensive fortress during the Nguyen Dynasty. Today, this place is an ideal spot for sightseeing and viewing, worthy of the title “the first grand scenic pass under heaven” bestowed by King Le Thanh Tong when he stopped to admire the scenery here.
2.3 The Hai Van Gate entrance fee?
Drive via Hai Van Pass to enjoy the landscape, and don’t forget to stop and see both cities, Hue and Da Nang, from the viewpoint at Hai Van Gate. The admission ticket to visit Hai Van Gate is free, but after 2 years of restoration, we received an announcement that people can visit for free from August 2024. We are not sure if they will charge fees after that. Huracars will update this fee (if any) soon.
What’s the weather like in Huế compared to Đà Nẵng when you cross the Hải Vân Pass?
Hai Van Mountain acts as a natural barrier impacting the weather in both Hue and Da Nang, dividing Vietnam into two distinct climate regions: Hue is rainy and wet, while Da Nang is warm and dry.
When journeying from Hue to Hoi An via the Hai Van Pass, one can witness noticeable weather changes. In Hue, the atmosphere is often characterized by heavy rainfall, cloudiness, and occasional fog. However, upon reaching Hai Van Gate, it’s common to find sunny skies and clear blue weather on the Da Nang side.
The Hai Van mountain range significantly influences the weather, leading to mild and temperate conditions in Da Nang, while Hue tends to experience greater rainfall and humidity. This disparity arises from the mountains obstructing moist air masses coming from the sea, resulting in differing microclimates on each side of the pass.
Such variations in weather are typically observed during transitional months and are not an everyday occurrence.
The weather conditions also play a role in shaping the personalities of the residents from Hue and Da Nang. People from Hue generally have a preference for spicier cuisine, often consuming spicy dishes to stay warm. In the winter, Hue residents tend to wear thicker clothing to keep comfortable in the cooler temperatures. Life in Hue tends to move at a slower pace; mornings may start around 8 AM due to rainy weather, and evenings are earlier as temperatures drop. Most shops typically close by 7:30 PM, whereas in Da Nang, people often go out for drinks during the nighttime. 🙂
4 How to get to the Hai Van Gate from Hue?
To reach the majestic Hai Van Gate, you have many different transportation options.
- Hue Private car: It takes more than 1 hour to drive from Hue city center to Hai Van Gate. To experience Hai Van Pass safely, comfortably and without worrying too much about the weather, a private car is the ideal choice. The journey between Hue and Hoi An has many beautiful places to visit, and an English speaking driver can ensure you don’t miss a thing.
- Hue Easy rider: If you want to experience and explore Hai Van Gate located on the top of one of the most beautiful passes in Vietnam but cannot drive a motorbike yourself, Easy Rider is the perfect choice. This option allows you to fully immerse yourself in the breathtaking scenery without the stress of driving. An experienced local guide will navigate the winding roads, ensuring your safety.
- Rent a motorbike: If you love freedom and want to explore Hai Van Gate on your own, driving yourself is the perfect choice. This way, you can stop anywhere on the winding mountain pass to admire the majestic sea and sky. However, to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip, you need to prepare carefully, especially with driving skills on mountain passes. Make sure you are familiar with traffic laws and have the skills to handle difficult situations on the road. If this is your first time traveling through Vietnam by bike, we recommend using Easy Rider or a private car transfer.
- Taking the train will take you through the Hai Van Pass, but since it is situated at the base of the mountain, visiting the Hai Van gate is not possible.
- Via local bus/sleeper bus, most buses travel between Hue and Da Nang through the Hai Van tunnel, and we won’t be able to see this location – Hai Van Quan.
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Book a private car to visit Hai Van Gate from Hoi An for a safe, comfortable, and memorable experience. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery and rich history of this iconic destination with the convenience of a private, English-speaking driver. |
5 Travel tips to the Hai Van Gate
Hai Van Pass is one of the most attractive destinations in Vietnam, offering majestic natural scenery and unique experiences. To fully enjoy your visit, consider these tips.
5.1 When is the best time to visit the Hai Van Gate in Vietnam?
The ideal time to discover the Hai Van Pass is during the dry season, running from March to September. This period typically features clear and cloudless skies, which are perfect for capturing stunning and impressive photographs.
In addition to the fantastic photographic opportunities, traveling during the dry season is much safer, especially for those who intend to explore the pass on their own motorbikes. With dry roads and consistent weather conditions, you can have a more enjoyable and secure experience, allowing you to fully appreciate the breathtaking views and adventurous journey.
5.2 Extra tips for your best trip
- The best times to explore Hai Van Quan are either in the early morning or late afternoon. During these periods, the weather is cool and enjoyable, ensuring a delightful experience for visitors. Furthermore, the absence of direct sunlight at these times helps you steer clear of excessive heat, allowing you to fully appreciate the stunning scenery, thus making your visit more enjoyable and relaxing.
- Make sure to carry your camera to capture breathtaking views and unforgettable moments.
- To shield yourself from the sun, don’t forget to pack sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, and UV-blocking sunglasses.
- Wearing comfortable clothing made from breathable materials, along with sandals or sneakers, is crucial for a pleasant day.
6 Some nearby tourist attractions:
- Hai Van Pass is a must-visit for adventurers. As one of Vietnam’s stunning mountain passes, it showcases nature’s beauty. The winding roads along steep cliffs provide breathtaking views of the turquoise ocean below. Climbing the peaks while enjoying the cool breeze and scenic landscape offers a memorable experience for all. Hai Van Pass presents both visual splendor and a thrilling challenge for those who enjoy rugged roads.
- Lang Co Beach, situated at the base of Hai Van Pass, is embraced by lush mountains and ancient forests. This stunning locale is a haven for nature enthusiasts. With its soft white sands and crystal-clear waters, Lang Co provides tranquility and relaxation. The blend of sea, mountains, and forests forms a captivating landscape. Moreover, it boasts rich biodiversity, offering wildlife observation and forest exploration. Whether you prefer sunbathing, swimming, or hiking, Lang Co Beach ensures an unforgettable experience.
- Lap An lagoon: Lap An Lagoon is a hidden gem that visitors should not miss. When entering the lagoon, you will be greeted by peaceful waters surrounded by pristine forests, lush green hills and distant mountain ranges. The lagoon is also home to countless species of flora and fauna, including many species of birds, fish and crabs. Moreover, Lap An Lagoon is also one of the most beautiful places to watch the sunrise and sunset. The peaceful and quiet lagoon makes you feel comfortable and refreshed.
- Big Rock in Da Nang side
Don’t miss the chance to visit the historic Hai Van Gate and experience one of Vietnam’s most breathtaking wonders. Whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just in search of an unforgettable adventure, Hai Van Gate has something for everyone. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the rich culture, stunning architecture, and panoramic views that this iconic destination has to offer.
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