Hồ Thủy Tiên: Hue's Abandoned Water Park and Post-Apocalyptic Dragon
Hồ Thủy Tiên (Thủy Tiên Lake) stands as one of the most intriguing and unconventional attractions in Hue. This site is not a grand tomb or a peaceful pagoda; it is an abandoned water park that nature and decay have begun to reclaim. It draws adventurers, photographers, and urban explorers from all over the world, seeking the park’s haunting, post-apocalyptic beauty.
I. A Brief and Mysterious History
The park’s story is one of ambition and rapid failure.
Construction and Opening: The local tourism company built the water park at a reported cost of $3 million, and it opened to the public around 2004, though only partially completed. It featured ambitious plans, including a grandstand, waterslides, and the iconic lake-center aquarium.
Swift Closure: The park closed mysteriously just two years later, around 2006. Local speculation suggests poor financial planning, lack of visitors, and even rumors of a ‘curse’ due to its proximity to imperial tombs, contributing to its rapid demise.
Global Fame: Since its abandonment, photos of the site have gone viral in international media, cementing its reputation as one of the most beautiful abandoned places globally. This exposure now attracts a steady stream of curious tourists.
II. The Iconic Dragon and Key Areas
The site is centered around the lake and is best explored on foot or by scooter.
The Dragon Aquarium: The star attraction is the massive, decaying concrete dragon sculpture, perched dramatically on an island in the lake. This structure once housed an aquarium. You can enter the dragon’s interior and climb a winding staircase to the observation deck inside its head, offering a striking view of the overgrown park and lake. The interior features broken glass, graffiti, and peeling paint, creating a visually stunning scene.
The Waterslides: Find the remnants of the water park’s waterslides and pools nearby. These decaying structures are now overgrown with vines and moss, creating a powerful contrast between human-made fun and nature’s persistent resurgence.
The Amphitheater: Explore the deserted grandstand, providing a melancholy view of the silent lake and the dragon. Its crumbling seats and fading colors reinforce the sense of a world forgotten.
III. Essential Visitor Information and Safety
A visit to Hồ Thủy Tiên requires an adventurous spirit and careful planning.
Location and Access: The park is located about 7-10 km southwest of Hue city center, on Thiên An Hill. The easiest way to reach it is by taxi, Grab-bike, or rented scooter. Simply search for “Ho Thuy Tien Abandoned Water Park” on a navigation app.
Entrance and Fee: The park is officially closed and the main gate may show a “No Visitors” sign. However, local security guards often allow entry for a small informal fee, typically between 10,000–20,000 VND per person (plus a small fee for scooter parking). We recommend bringing small denominations of Vietnamese Dong cash.
Safety Warning: Visitors enter at their own risk. Be aware that the structures are old and in disrepair, and use caution when climbing or walking on unstable surfaces. Wear enclosed, sturdy shoes, and avoid visiting after dark. Always respect the site and refrain from adding new graffiti or taking souvenirs.
