Ben Xuan Garden House Hue is more than a garden house. It is a cultural space that reflects the deep soul of Hue. Located on Van Thanh Street, along the banks of the Huong River, Ben Xuan is known as a “model” Hue garden house that preserves royal architecture while embracing art, music, and fine dining.
This place is not simply a museum or a restaurant. It is the result of a 10-year passion project by artist Camille Huyen and her husband. Together, they created a cultural meeting point where Eastern traditions and Western influences connect naturally. From the moment visitors pass through its gates, Ben Xuan offers the feeling of stepping into the Nguyen Dynasty era, while still enjoying the comfort of a lived-in, welcoming home.
Discovering Ben Xuan Garden House: A Masterpiece of Hue Royal Architecture
Seen from the river, Ben Xuan Garden House stands out in a quiet and elegant way. It does not aim to impress with size or decoration, yet it feels royal and dignified. The entire property follows the idea of adaptive conservation. The exterior keeps its ancient Hue appearance, while the interior offers modern comfort and refined living.
The total area is nearly 5,000m², which is considered very large for a garden house in this part of Hue. Its location is also special. Ben Xuan sits between two important landmarks: Thien Mu Pagoda and the Temple of Literature (Van Thanh). In many ways, it feels like a cultural bridge connecting these two historic sites.
The builders carefully selected ancient bricks, Nguyen Dynasty roof tiles, and porcelain details. Every corner reflects Hue’s royal aesthetics. For travelers who want to understand how Ben Xuan fits into the wider cultural landscape, this guide to Hue’s historic highlights offers helpful background.
The Artistic Gates: Installation Art on the Banks of the Perfume River
Ben Xuan is entered through three unique gates, each designed as an art installation rather than a traditional entrance. These gates were personally created by Camille Huyen, and each one carries a clear artistic meaning.
- Lotus Gate (Cổng Sen): Located right by the river, this gate is shaped like a boat. At sunset, it appears to float between the sky and the water. It represents the harmony between Heaven, Earth, and Humans.
- Thien Su Gate (Cổng Thiền Sư): This gate faces Van Thanh Street. It shows the image of a Buddha sitting in meditation on a lotus pond. The design is inspired by a sculpture by Diem Phung Thi, a well-known Vietnamese artist. The gate creates a calm and spiritual feeling.
- But Phap Gate (Cổng Bút Tháp): The third gate is more symbolic. It features the Sanskrit “Om” character from the mantra “Om Mani Padme Hum,” adding a spiritual layer to the space.
Together, these gates feel like an artistic welcome, preparing visitors for what lies inside.
Architectural Highlights of the Traditional Nha Ruong and Nghinh Phong House
At the center of Ben Xuan stands the Co Lau, the main house of the property. This is a traditional Nha Ruong with three compartments and two lean-tos. The structure is built mainly from jackfruit wood, a material commonly used in royal Hue houses.
The craftsmanship is detailed and refined. Wooden beams and columns are carved with floral and dragon motifs, showing the skill of local artisans.
To the right of the main house is a brick bridge over 100 years old. This bridge leads to the Nghinh Phong House, which reflects Khai Dinh–era architecture. This style combines Vietnamese tradition with Western influence, using concrete, porcelain, and decorative details similar to royal palaces of that period.
Materials used across the property include:
- Bat Trang bricks: some more than 300 years old
- Ancient roof tiles: aged into the deep grey tone typical of Hue
- Hand-carved wood: created by skilled local craftsmen
A Cultural Sanctuary for Music, Poetry, and Fine Arts
Music and art play a central role at Ben Xuan. This is not a place where culture is only displayed. It is actively performed and shared. Camille Huyen, a singer herself, often performs here.
Inside the concert house, visitors can enjoy poetry-based songs, including works by Han Mac Tu set to music by Cung Tien. The wooden architecture creates excellent acoustics, making each performance feel intimate.
Different spaces serve different purposes:
- Classical Concert Room: for chamber music and piano
- Large Courtyards: used for Hue singing and water puppet shows
- Library inside Co Lau: a quiet area displaying books and Camille Huyen’s oil paintings
The combination of traditional wooden interiors and contemporary artwork is a clear example of how old and new elements can coexist naturally.
Authentic Hue Gastronomy and Organic Garden Living
Food is an essential part of the Ben Xuan experience. The garden produces its own organic rice and fruits, which are used in meals served to guests. Dining here is not only about eating; it is about atmosphere and presentation.
Meals are carefully prepared and directed by Camille Huyen herself. Traditional Hue dishes are served slowly, with attention to detail and balance. The surrounding garden, with Ngô Đồng trees and willows along the river, creates a calm and reflective dining environment rarely found in the city center.
Planning Your Visit: Booking and Cultural Etiquette
Visitor Information
- Address: 51 Van Thanh Street, Long Ho, Huong Tra, Hue City
- Opening hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Phone: +84 787 680 960
- Email: benxuan.ngo@gmail.com
- Fanpage: Ben Xuan Garden House Theatre
It is recommended to contact the house ahead of time if you plan to visit for a meal, a cultural performance, or a private tour.
Getting There
Depending on your travel style, there are several ways to get there.
- By taxi or ride-hailing services: This is a common choice for travelers staying in Hue city center. The ride takes around 10–15 minutes, and most drivers are familiar with Van Thanh Street and the Kim Long area.
- By motorbike: For independent travelers, renting a motorbike is an option. The road is relatively quiet, especially in the morning. However, parking can be a bit limited during event times.
- By boat on the Perfume River: A more scenic way to arrive is by dragon boat. Many visitors enjoy combining a river cruise with a cultural visit, especially in the late afternoon.
- By private car: For comfort and flexibility, a private car is ideal, especially for families, small groups, or travelers on a set schedule. It also makes it easy to combine Ben Xuan with nearby stops like Thien Mu Pagoda or Kim Long Village without rushing. Local services like Hura Cars offer door-to-door transfers from Hue city center, the railway station, or transfer from Phu Bai International Airport, making the journey smooth and stress-free.
Choosing the right transport helps set the tone for your visit, as Ben Xuan is best experienced without hurry, in a calm and relaxed state of mind.
FAQs
Is Ben Xuan Garden House open every day?
Yes, but only for guests who book in advance for visits, meals, or performances.
Can visitors take photos?
Photography is allowed. However, visitors should ask for permission in worship areas.
How far is it from Hue city center?
Around 10–15 minutes by car from Le Loi Street. Boat travel offers a scenic alternative.
What should visitors wear?
Smart casual clothing is recommended. Modest dress is appreciated due to the cultural and spiritual setting.
Ben Xuan Garden House offers a rare chance to experience Hue’s royal spirit in a quiet, meaningful way. Whether visitors come for architecture, music, or cuisine, they leave with a deeper understanding of Hue’s cultural identity—one shaped by history, art, and gentle living along the Perfume River.