1. Overview of Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong
1.1. Prominent Location and Role in Do Son
Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong is located on Vung Hill, in Zone II of Do Son, Van Huong Ward, Do Son District, Hai Phong. This position is at an altitude of nearly 40 m above sea level, within a campus of over 3,700 m² shaded by old trees. From here, visitors can overlook Do Son Bay and the surrounding natural scenery.
Vung Hill provides the mansion with a prominent advantage with its expansive sea view. In the morning, the dawn light filters through the large windows, creating a vibrant picture of nature and architecture blending together. In the afternoon, from the spacious garden, visitors can easily feel the cool sea breeze and watch the sunset over the water. Bao Dai Palace is not only a symbol of French colonial architecture but also a prominent cultural and tourist destination in Hai Phong, contributing to the unique identity of the Do Son resort and attracting a large number of visitors each year.
1.2. Special Historical Value of Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong
The construction of the building began in 1928 under the Indochina administration, named Villa Josephine, which was a resort for the Governor-General of Indochina. The majestic architecture and impressive natural scenery greatly impressed King Bao Dai when he visited in 1932.
A turning point occurred in 1949 when the mansion was handed over to King Bao Dai and became "Bao Dai King's Palace", the only royal residence in the North of the last king of the Nguyen dynasty. From 1933 to 1954, it was frequently used when the king and his family vacationed in the North. After 1955, the Ministry of National Defense took over its management, and in 1984, the palace was transferred to the Do Son Tourism Company. Thanks to preservation and renovation efforts, Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong has become a famous historical relic today, preserving many authentic artifacts and stories about the life of the royal family in the late Nguyen dynasty.
Bao Dai Palace was built in 1928. (Source: Bao Lao Dong newspaper)
2. Architecture and scale of Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong
2.1. Typical French architectural style
Upon entering Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong, visitors are transported back to the golden age of classic French architecture. The villa stands out with its unique octagonal structure, comprising 2 above-ground floors and 1 basement, a classic red-tiled roof, and a foundation of durable laterite stone that has stood the test of time.
The small path leading to the villa winds along the hillside, flanked by natural flowers, grass, and vines, creating a sense of tranquility and privacy. Large windows facing the sea are intelligently designed to maximize natural light and capture cool breezes year-round. Details such as artistic wrought-iron railings, stone fireplaces, and crystal chandeliers bring a balance between the romantic charm and the practicality of French-style residences.
The spacious living room, once a reception area for royal family members and guests, is a space where Eastern and Western cultures blend. Visitors can easily imagine cozy gatherings, the sound of Queen Nam Phuong's piano accompanied by the princesses. The large dining room was where the Governor-General of Indochina hosted guests, while the bedrooms were arranged separately for each member of the royal family.
Living room with a distinctive design full of classic charm. (Source: Lao Dong Newspaper)
2.2. Scale, Area, Landscape, and View of the Mansion
Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong was built on an area of 1,000 m², located on a high hill with a total campus area of over 3,700 m² shaded by old trees, many of which have stood for decades to hundreds of years. The open design allows every space in the palace to face the sea, with a panoramic view of the lush green Do Son Bay.
The garden area within the palace creates an ideal relaxation spot for activities such as parties, relaxation, or simply enjoying afternoon tea and sightseeing. From the second-floor balcony, visitors can take in the panoramic view of the sea and the fishermen's coracles. Among Bao Dai's palaces in Vietnam, the Do Son palace stands out for its lush natural landscape, harmonizing with the sea and the characteristic cool climate of the northern coast.
3. Tourist Experience at Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong
3.1. Visiting Artifacts, Memorabilia, and Royal Spaces
Visiting Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong, visitors can see many artifacts associated with King Bao Dai and the royal family. The restored throne is solemnly placed in the main living room, next to it is an antique telephone once used to exchange information with local areas. Precious archival photos recreate everyday moments of the royal family when living here.
The king's and queen's bedrooms still retain their original architecture with precious wooden beds, classic wardrobes, along with carefully preserved personal belongings. The archive area introduces more historical documents about the formation of Villa Joséphine and its journey to becoming the Northern Royal Residence. Each artifact, each exhibition space holds interesting stories about the palace's role in the cultural and political life during the late Nguyen Dynasty.
Pictures are kept at Bao Dai Palace. (Source: Lao Động Newspaper)
3.2. Utility services at Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong
Bao Dai Palace offers a royal-style resort opportunity that is not available everywhere. Visitors can choose to stay at the palace to experience the living space of ancient royalty, very suitable for family trips or memorable private events.
Room at Bao Dai Villa for tourists to stay overnight. (Source: Collected)
The restaurant at the mansion serves a diverse menu, combining classic French-style dishes and fresh Hai Phong seafood specialties. The sea-facing garden is an ideal space for birthday parties, weddings, or small group events in a romantic, airy setting. Additionally, visitors can experience taking photos with the ancient architecture, visit the exhibition area, organize picnics on the premises, or enjoy afternoon tea and watch the sunset over Do Son beach.
3.3. Latest updates on opening hours and ticket prices
Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong is open from 8:00 AM to 9:00 PM every day of the week, convenient for visitors to choose a suitable time. The current ticket price is 20,000 VND per adult, suitable for exploring a valuable historical site.
Accommodation and event organization services have price lists based on room type and booking time. Visitors should contact the mansion's management department in advance to register for accommodation, dining, or event organization experiences, ensuring the most convenience, especially during peak season. Children and large groups often receive discounts, facilitating complete tours for families or groups of friends.
4. Suggestions for combining visits to Bao Dai Palace and other tourist attractions in Hai Phong
4.1. Cat Ba Island
If time permits, visitors can go to Cat Ba Island by traveling via the Sun World Cat Ba cable car system, a three-rope cable car line holding the record for the world's tallest cable car pylon. This place boasts a harmonious landscape of mountains, forests, and islands along with the poetic Lan Ha Bay.
Tourists enjoy the Sun World Cat Ba cable car experience. (Source: Collected)
Experiences on the island are diverse, from swimming on white sandy beaches, conquering mountain peaks, visiting Cat Ba National Park with its rich ecosystem, to exploring traditional fishing villages and learning about fishermen's lives. The combination of historical sites and fresh nature offers a complete travel experience for everyone.
4.2. Do Son
22 km from Hai Phong city center, Do Son is a famous resort area with beautiful beaches and many long-standing resorts. Besides the Bao Dai Palace, there is also another Bao Dai villa, the Do Son casino, and many unique traditional festivals throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy a day of relaxation, swimming, and savoring fresh seafood at beachfront restaurants.
Do Son is suitable for those who want to enjoy a slow pace of life, cool sea air, and explore local culture. Its proximity to the Bao Dai Palace makes travel and itinerary planning easy and convenient.
4.3. Hon Dau
Hon Dau belongs to the Do Son tourist area, visitors can access it by bridge or small boat. The most prominent feature of the island is the over 100-year-old Hon Dau lighthouse, an ancient French architectural work similar to the Bao Dai Palace in Hai Phong. The lush green primeval forest covering the island creates a peaceful atmosphere, suitable for rest and relaxation.
On the island, visitors can visit the lighthouse, have picnics in the forest, admire the sea from impressive viewpoints, and capture beautiful sunset photos. Hon Dau is ideal for small groups who love privacy and connection with nature.
4.4. Bach Dang Giang
The Bach Dang Giang historical relic site is located in Trang Kenh, it is where three historical battles on the Bach Dang River are recreated. The Tran Hung Dao Temple is built in a sacred space overlooking the vast river, evoking a solemn and proud feeling.
Combining visits to the Bao Dai Palace and Bach Dang Giang helps visitors better understand the country's long history from the periods of nation-building and defense to the late Nguyen Dynasty. The river landscape and majestic temple create memorable cultural experiences for the exploration journey.
Overview of Bach Dang Giang Hai Phong. (Source: Collection)
4.5. Nam Hai
The Nam Hai spiritual tourist area, located near the Nam Hai Dai Than temple in Do Son, is a destination associated with the symbol of the Avalokitesvara Buddha statue facing the sea. The scenery combines sacredness and the blue of the sea, creating a peaceful atmosphere, suitable for those seeking tranquility.
Tourists often choose to pilgrimage, relax, and swim in the sea during the same trip. The location near Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong helps connect all historical, cultural, and spiritual experiences fully during a trip to Do Son.
Bao Dai Palace Hai Phong converges full historical, cultural, and architectural values, worthy of being an unmissable stop when exploring the Port region's coast. Visit once to enjoy the nostalgic space, unique royal style, and capture memorable moments!
