After touring the resplendent ancient imperial capital of Hue in central Thua Thien-Hue Province, guests should be sure not to miss the Vi Da Xua Cafe in town.

From the outside, the cafe resembles a palace from the Nguyen Dynasty (1802 1945).

The interior boasts a large garden that occupies over half of its total area of 1,000 square meters, featuring various species of orchids and bonsai trees.

The garden is decorated with a host of stone statues and ornamental rocks, and contains a small stream with a quaint bridge over its waters.

The lines of willows and areca trees shading the path leading to the Vi Da Xua Cafe transport visitors to times past, when Vi Da Hamlet was acclaimed for its beautiful landscape enshrined in poetry.

Sipping on a drink at the cafe, visitors can appreciate the architecture of nha ruong, a type of wooden house with sculptures on the pillars and rafters.

This traditional house of Hue consists of either one, three or five apartments and two secondary roofs on both sides.

The back of the cafe provides a view of the Huong (Perfume) River and Hen (Mussel) Islet peopled by locals engaged in a variety of activities.

The front section of the cafe hosts several traditional houses with carvings, while the back is propped by a row of Chinese-style houses.

Relaxing at Vi Da Xua Cafe, visitors will conjure up emotions of an ancient time when quietude and tranquility reigned supreme in a corner of the former feudal capital.

The beverages served at the cafe include a wide range of special teas with exclusive flavors.

From Dong Ba Market in downtown Hue, head toward Trang Tien Bridge and cross the structure.

Turn left and walk along the Huong River to find the cafe after passing Dap Da Bridge.

The cafe is located at 131 Nguyen Sinh Cung Street in Vi Da Hamlet by the Huong River.

Reported by Diem Thu