The ancient capital of Hue plan to host a large influx of tourists this month to experience the feeling of enjoying the panoramic view of the ancient capital from hot air balloons flying at an altitude of 500m.

The Hue International Hot-air Balloon Festival 2023 will be organized by the Thua Thien Hue Province’s Department of Tourism and HEXA Media Joint Stock Company between April 13 and 20.

With the theme "Beauty of the Ancient Capital", the festival aims to promote images of vibrant, attractive, and diverse Hue to domestic and international visitors.

The festival will be held at Ham Nghi yard, in front of the Royal Citadel. Visitors will enjoy free-flying to watch the sunrise at 6 am every day, flying 5-10km from the take-off point. Each flight carries two to three passengers for 45-60 minutes at an altitude of 300 to 500 meters. The ticket price for each person stands at VND4 million.

Hot-air balloon festival in Hue in 2022. Photo: HEXA Media

The shorter flights have a reduced price cap of VND200,000 and will leave every five minutes from 5 pm to 7 pm at an altitude of 30 to 50 meters. Tourists can enjoy the spectacular view of Hue Royal Citadel, Tam Giang Lagoon, Ngu Mountain, and Huong River.

Visitors can also sample Hue delicacies at 20 food stalls, go shopping, and play games at the entertainment complex, which will be open at Thua Thien Hue Sports Centre, 1 Ha Huy Tap Street.

The highlight of this year's balloon festival is the EDM Music Night event, with the participation of famous rappers and many other artists. The music night promises to be a new playground for young people to immerse themselves in the unique and burning art space freely.

Hue especially captivates visitors with its serenity, slow lifestyle, and ancient architecture. Coming to Hue in these April days, visitors will see a very different Hue: a youthful and dynamic city.

Pham Do Hoan, director of HEXA Media Joint Stock Company, said the central city expects to introduce visitors to a special program as they can experience a diverse and multi-dimensional space to enjoy scenic views and gain deeper insights into the ancient capital’s culture and cuisine.

This year’s event coincides with the VnExpress Marathon Imperial Hue 2023, scheduled for April 16 with 10,000 runners.

The hot air balloon festival will move to Quy Nhon City in the central coastal province of Binh Dinh from April 25 to May 5.

Tourists can enjoy a panoramic view of Hue from hot-air balloons. Photo: HEXA Media