An Bang Cemetery, also known as the Ghost City of Hue, is a captivating historic cemetery located in the beautiful city of Hue, Vietnam. Visiting An Bang Cemetery offers a unique experience that combines history, culture, and a touch of the paranormal, making it an ideal choice for those seeking an unforgettable and hauntingly beautiful adventure.
Introduction to An Bang Cemetery
Hue City, situated in central Vietnam, boasts a captivating history and an abundance of cultural heritage. It proudly served as the imperial capital of the Nguyen Dynasty from 1802 to 1945. Hue is renowned for its array of historic monuments, including the awe-inspiring Imperial City, majestic royal tombs, and ornate pagodas. Despite enduring significant damage during the Vietnam War, the city has emerged as a thriving tourist destination, beckoning visitors with its captivating historical sites, delectable cuisine, and breathtaking landscapes.
After immersing yourself in the splendors of Hue city, including its royal tombs and monuments, it is highly recommended to explore the local neighborhoods and delve into the unique customs and traditions of the Hue people about the afterlife – a realm that has earned An Bang Cemetery the moniker of the “City of Ghosts.”
Location and Name
An Bang village is situated in Thua Thien Hue province, Vietnam. It is located approximately 35 kilometers east of Hue city center, which can be reached within an hour from the heart of Hue.
An Bang Cemetery serves as the final resting place for the local inhabitants of Vinh An, An Bang, and Ha Uc. As you venture into the village, you will encounter numerous tombs nestled beside or behind houses, and even within the courtyards of some residences. The cemetery has gained notoriety for its distinct and elaborate tombstones and mausoleums, which resemble miniature houses and, in some instances, surpass the grandeur of villas. An Bang village is believed to be haunted, attracting curious tourists seeking to immerse themselves in the tranquil ambiance of this ghostly city.
Many houses, or what is locally known as “rick houses,” in An Bang village currently remain unoccupied. However, it is important to note that this does not imply a state of neglect. Most homeowners have relocated to larger cities such as Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh, or even to foreign lands like California, the United States, and Canada. They maintain these houses as a means of preserving the cherished memories of their parents and ancestors.
History and Formation
During the Vietnam War, many Vietnamese people left their homeland on fishing boats in search of a better life. Some passed away during the journey, and their memory is honored in An Bang Cemetery.
The residents of An Bang constructed grand mausoleums in the cemetery, which covers 250 hectares and is located next to a deserted beach. Construction began in 1995, and the villagers continued to build extravagant tombs for their deceased family members.
According to the villagers’ beliefs, maintaining and adorning a tomb with great care will bring good fortune to the family. Looking at the village of An Bang, it seems that their efforts have paid off! The tombs built here can cost as much as 50,000 – 100,000 USD, which is extraordinary considering the prevalent poverty in most of Vietnam.
Walking through this extraordinary cemetery with its towering tombs, one can understand why it is called the “City of Ghosts.” It feels as if the spirits of the ancestors are still present, watching over the village from their magnificent kingdom.
Things to See
- Ngu Ong Temple: A temple dedicated to fishermen and the worship of whales.
- Maria Statues: Statues of the Virgin Mary for those following Christianity.
- An Bang Church: A church located in An Bang village.
- Bau Lang An Bang: A park within An Bang Cemetery showcasing the history of the village.
- The Statue of Avalokitesvara Bodhisattva (Quan The Am – Lady Buddha)
- Luxurious tombs throughout the Ghost City.
How to Visit
An Bang Cemetery is approximately 35 km from Hue City. There are two ways to reach An Bang:
- Route 1: Hue City – Thuan An Beach (QL14B) via Phu Dien Beach and arrive at An Bang village (90 minutes).
- Route 2: Hue city – AH1 – turn left after crossing Phu Bai International Airport – to Truong Ha Bridge, then go to Vinh An – An Bang (60 minutes).
In addition to visiting the Ghost City, you can also explore the coastline, Hai Van Pass, Lap An Lagoon, and Lang Co Beach by taking a trip from Hue to Hoi An or vice versa.