Chuon Lagoon – A hidden gem in the heart of Hue
WVR - Bathed in golden twilight, the waters of Chuon Lagoon and the Tam Giang system resemble a vivid ink-wash painting, breathtaking in its serenity, quietly awaiting discovery.
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| The tranquil and untouched beauty of Chuon Lagoon's waterways. (Photo: Thuy Duong) |
Located approximately 15 kilometres northeast of Hue city centre, Chuon Lagoon is part of the vast Tam Giang Lagoon system - one of the largest lagoon networks in Vietnam. In contrast to the growing vibrancy of Hue’s tourism scene, Chuon Lagoon has remarkably preserved its pristine charm and tranquil atmosphere.
The lagoon boasts a unique beauty that sets it apart from other attractions in the former imperial capital. It is home to a diverse ecosystem, featuring lush mangrove forests, powdery white sandbanks and an expansive water surface that mirrors the sky.
Travellers can reach the lagoon easily by motorbike, private car, or taxi. Upon arrival, visitors are invited to board small boats navigated by residents, gently weaving through the vast waters, immersing themselves in the peaceful landscape and the distinctive rhythm of life in the lagoon.
Each boat trip typically lasts around 30 minutes and includes sightseeing at sunset, learning about the fishermen’s daily lives and enjoying freshly prepared local specialities.
A journey into stillness and colour
Unlike the busy Huong River or Hue’s historical landmarks, Chuon Lagoon offers an atmosphere of peace and reflection.
As the sun dips behind the horizon, the entire wetland is bathed in warm hues - shifting from pale amber to deep violet. Rays of light glimmer on the surface, casting a golden glow over fishing huts and slender wooden boats adrift on the calm waters. It is a landscape reminiscent of a traditional ink wash painting: rustic yet captivating.
There are no grand buildings or bustling crowds here - only the sky, water, and the gentle rhythm of village life shaped by the elements and the passing of time.
For many, Chuon Lagoon becomes an indelible memory.
“A local boatman guided me through the area. The sunset here was truly extraordinary. I’ve travelled across Vietnam, but rarely have I encountered a place that stirred such emotions”, shared Hoang Nam, a visitor from Hanoi.
For younger travellers with a love for discovery and photography, Chuon Lagoon provides endless inspiration.
“We initially stopped by to take a few quick photos, but the scenery was so beautiful that we stayed much longer. I will return”, said Tran Hoang Anh, a student from Da Nang.
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| Fisherfolk guiding their boats back to the shore. (Photo: Thuy Duong) |
Where culture and cuisine flow together
The local population around Chuon Lagoon relies primarily on traditional fishing and aquaculture. This way of life has shaped a distinctive cultural landscape, where visitors can both appreciate the scenery and savour authentic dishes made from freshly caught seafood.
Local delicacies include crispy rice cakes filled with sweet-fleshed spinefoot fish, steaming hot oyster porridge, and grilled fish served with hand-picked herbs from the lagoon’s edge.
“I’ve tried rice cakes in various places, but the version with spinefoot fish at Chuon Lagoon was truly unforgettable”, said Tran Thanh Van, a visitor from Quang Ninh. “The crust was crispy, the fish was fragrant and flavourful, and the dipping sauce had the perfect balance - truly reflective of Hue’s culinary finesse”.
Thanks to the abundance of fresh ingredients sourced directly from the lagoon, local restaurants are known for dishes that are simple in presentation but rich in natural flavour. From spinefoot and rabbitfish to oysters, prawns and seasonal crabs, everything is freshly caught or farmed by the local community and prepared on-site.
These meals are often served with fresh herbs and unique sauces made from family recipes passed down through generations. It is not just a meal - it is a full sensory experience that embodies the soul of Hue’s riverine culture.
Pioneering green tourism and Plastic-free practices
In 2025, Chuon Lagoon was honoured to be selected as the launch site for the “Plastic-Free Ecotourism Destination” under the Hue Urban Plastic Reduction Project (TVA Project), supported by local authorities and international partners.
Six tourism and hospitality providers in the area have officially committed to reducing plastic waste in their operations. The Hue Department of Tourism has also pledged to support the development of eco-friendly homestays and community-based tourism initiatives, providing training and promoting sustainable tourism through strategic partnerships both domestically and internationally.
“Chuon Lagoon is not only beautiful and culturally rich, but deeply intertwined with the lives of its people”, said Hoang Ngoc Tuong Van, TVA Project Manager. “When the community joins hands to reduce plastic waste, tourism becomes a bridge - nurturing environmental responsibility and preserving this unspoiled landscape for future generations”.
With poetic landscapes, vibrant fishing culture and crisp, clean air, Chuon Lagoon has become an ideal place for sunset chasers and those seeking healing moments away from the bustle of city life. It is time for Chuon Lagoon to be recognised not merely as a name on the map, but as a must-visit ecotourism destination in Hue, the ancient capital of Vietnam.
