Thuy Bieu Village: A Journey to Discover Pomelo Orchards and the Charm of Rural Hue

Thuy Bieu Village is not only a peaceful countryside setting, but also a vibrant piece in the historical flow of Hue. According to ancient documents, this land was formed from the merger of two ancient villages: Nguyet Bieu (16th century) and Luong Quan (17th century), belonging to Cu Trung canton, Huong Thuy district. Before 1945, these were two separate villages tied to traditional agriculture, relying on the rich alluvium of the Perfume River. The name 'Thuy Bieu', meaning 'water gourd', stems from its unique terrain where the gentle Perfume River curves and embraces three sides of the village like nature's arms, creating a harmonious and lush landscape.

Located in the southwest of Hue city, Thuy Bieu boasts an ideal geographical location for tourism development. Three sides (North - South - West) are surrounded by the Perfume River, while the East leans against Vong Canh Hill – a panoramic viewpoint of the poetic ancient capital. Just 15–20 minutes away from central Hue, this village is an ideal stop for short trips. Despite its proximity to the city, Thuy Bieu retains the full soul of the old countryside with narrow brick-paved roads, lush green rice fields, and ancient wooden house-gardens, offering visitors a rare sense of peace amidst modern life.

When speaking of Thuy Bieu village, people often immediately recall Hue Thanh Tra pomelo – a specialty fruit that has been associated with the ancient capital for hundreds of years. Belonging to the citrus family, at first glance, Thanh Tra resembles a pomelo but is more compact, just about the size of a fist. A thin, light yellow skin encapsulates juicy, glistening yellow segments. Upon biting into a segment, the sweet taste blended with a gentle, refreshing sourness and a delicate fragrance is enough to captivate any diner.

According to historical records, Thuy Bieu Thanh Tra pomelo was once selected as a royal tribute under the Nguyen Dynasty. The delicious fruit is not only thanks to the skilled hands of farmers, but also due to the particularly fertile soil along the Perfume River. Alluvium deposited from upstream, a fresh climate, and meticulous care have created a refined flavor unmatched anywhere else. Compared to varieties in other regions, Thuy Bieu Thanh Tra has fewer seeds, a richer flavor, and can be processed into many attractive treats such as jam, juice, and smoothies—small gifts filled with rural affection for travelers from afar.

The Thanh Tra season usually falls around August–September of the lunar calendar (around September–October in the solar calendar). At that time, the entire village seems to put on a bright yellow coat, with ripe clusters hanging nestled beneath the lush green canopy. Priced at only around 10,000–15,000 VND per fruit, visitors can buy them directly at the gardens or at local markets like Dong Ba to enjoy on the spot or bring home as gifts. More than just a fruit, Thanh Tra has become a symbol of Hue culinary culture, representing the sophistication and elegance of the local people.

Traveling to Thuy Bieu Village is not merely about sightseeing, but also a journey to truly immerse yourself in the simple life of Hue locals. Every step here opens up interesting experiences, leaving you with unforgettable memories upon departure.

Visiting and harvesting pomelos in ancient orchards

First of all, you cannot miss the experience of strolling through ancient Thanh Tra orchards. Amidst hundreds of hectares of lush green fruit trees, you will inhale the gentle fragrance of ripe fruit, hand-pick the early-season pomelos, and enjoy them right under the tree shade. Many households open their garden doors to welcome guests for a small fee, accompanied by a cup of hot tea and homemade pomelo jam. That is when you can sip tea while listening to stories of cultivation passed down through generations, from organic fertilizing methods to drawing water from the poetic Huong River.

Exploring ancient house-gardens and countryside cycling

Besides the orchards, ancient wooden house-gardens (nha ruong) are also captivating stops. A prime example is Xuan Dai garden house, featuring lush green spaces, lotus ponds, vegetable gardens, and impeccably preserved reception rooms. Sitting down for tea with the host and hearing them share ancient customs and traditions, you will feel as though you have returned to your childhood in your grandparents' home.

Another way to fully experience the rustic soul of Thuy Bieu is to rent a bicycle and ride around the village. Narrow paths lead you past vivid green rice fields, diverse fruit orchards ranging from mangoes and guavas to rambutans, and let you stop to rest at eco-homestays like Hue Ecolodge—where bamboo bungalows blend beautifully with nature.

Enjoying local cuisine and historical monuments

Your journey will be complete when you savor local cuisine with the locals. A rustic meal featuring lotus rice, Hue banh beo, or grilled river fish is both delicious and warm with rural hospitality. And if time permits, drop by Ho Quyen Arena, a historical monument near the village that once witnessed legendary elephant-tiger battles under the Nguyen Dynasty. 

To make your trip to Thuy Bieu Village smoother, keep the following practical information in mind:

Ideal time: The dry season from March to August, especially August–September of the lunar calendar to pick peak-season Thanh Tra pomelos. Avoid the rainy season (September–December) as village roads can be slippery.

How to get there: 

• Motorbike: Rent in Hue (100,000–150,000 VND/day), travel along Bui Thi Xuan Street across Long Tho Bridge – a scenic and easy route.
• Dragon boat: From Toa Kham boat station, takes 30–45 minutes, costing around 200,000–300,000 VND/group, while admiring the Perfume River and Thien Mu Pagoda.
• Taxi/Grab: Convenient for groups, costing 100,000–150,000 VND/one way.

Accommodation and costs: Homestays like Hue Ecolodge (500,000–1,000,000 VND/night), including meals. Total cost for a half-day tour: 300,000–500,000 VND/person.

Cultural tips: Respect the local people's private space, maintain environmental hygiene, dress politely when visiting monuments, and do not pick fruit in orchards without permission. Bring sunscreen and drinking water as the village can be quite sunny.

Concluding the journey in Thuy Bieu Village, travelers bring back not only a few golden Thanh Tra pomelos or beautiful photos, but also the sweet memory of a peaceful countryside. Amidst modern life, Thuy Bieu maintains its pristine purity, where people live in harmony with nature, and culture and history remain imprinted on every roof and garden plot.

If Hue is likened to a gentle love song of the country, Thuy Bieu is its rustic and profound background melody. A trip here will help you regain peace, relaxation, and the most authentic experiences. To make your exploration of the ancient capital even more complete, you can combine a visit to Thuy Bieu with nearby famous attractions such as Thien Mu Pagoda, Tu Duc Tomb, or Minh Mang Tomb.