Popularly known as Vietnam’s city of ghosts, this is one of the most surprising places in Hue — and in much of the country.
You could well say that here, the dead live perhaps more richly than the living, among tombs of colorful, spectacular architecture that look like the work of a disciple of Gaudí. That, combined with its enormous size, makes this a perfect and different stop to add to your time in Hue.
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The history of An Bang cemetery
After Vietnam’s reunification following the war with the United States, a large share of An Bang’s residents emigrated abroad, mainly to Europe and the US, from where they sent money back to their relatives, taking advantage of their greater purchasing power — turning the village into one of the most prosperous in Vietnam.
According to Vietnamese tradition, keeping a well-tended, well-decorated tomb — as a mark of respect toward one’s ancestors, who must continue to be cared for — brings good fortune to the whole family.
Construction of much of the cemetery we see today began in the 1990s, and since then the people of An Bang have taken to building ever more extravagant tombs for their loved ones.
An Bang, the largest cemetery in Vietnam
Today this is the largest cemetery in all of Vietnam, covering nearly 250 hectares. But what really catches the eye isn’t so much its size as the decoration of the family mausoleums, covered in colorful mosaics and figures such as dragons.
It may not be one of Hue’s main attractions, but if you venture out here you won’t regret it — a truly unique place to discover, where you’ll more than likely find yourself alone, without another tourist in sight.
How to get to An Bang cemetery
The cemetery lies 30 km outside Hue. The easiest ways to reach it are renting your own motorbike, taking a taxi, or arranging a multi-stop tour with a driver.
Entry is free, but remember that you’re in a sensitive place of great importance to the local community, so always remain respectful inside.
