Following the completion of major restoration efforts, Hai Van Quan is expected to open its doors to tourists free of charge in August. This historic site is uniquely managed by both Thua Thien Hue Province and Da Nang City, making it the only national historical monument in Vietnam under the jurisdiction of two localities.
Constructed in 1826 during the reign of Emperor Minh Mang, Hai Van Quan sits atop the Hai Van Pass, precisely at the administrative boundary between the two aforementioned areas.
With an investment exceeding 42 billion VND from the budgets of Thua Thien Hue Province and Da Nang City, the restoration project, initiated in late 2021, has now reached a point where the site can welcome visitors.
Mr. Tuan shared that as part of the agreed plan to receive tourists, there is a proposal to offer free admission for an initial period post-opening. This free entry aims to gauge visitor numbers, evaluate the effectiveness of the site’s reception and interpretation services, and gather feedback from tourists.
The opening strategy for Hai Van Quan also includes decisions on admission fees, tour guide services, and management and protection plans for the site.
“At present, all essential preparations are complete. We are also coordinating with advisory bodies to organize a meeting between leaders of the two localities to finalize the implementation plan. We aim to open Hai Van Quan to visitors by early August,” said Mr. Tuan.
Restoration Complete but Tourism Infrastructure Still Lacking
Mr. Tuan further explained that although the restoration of Hai Van Quan is complete and the site is ready to welcome tourists, it still lacks necessary tourism infrastructure. Currently, there are no parking facilities, ticket booths, workspaces for guides and security personnel, or souvenir shops at the site.
Notably, there is a significant need for proper restroom facilities. Additionally, due to its elevation of over 500 meters above sea level, the site lacks a comprehensive technical infrastructure. The primary sources of water in the area are streams and rainwater reserves, which can impact the site’s management and operation.
Mr. Tuan mentioned that the project is in the final stages of acceptance and handover procedures to make the site operational.
Explaining the delay in opening despite the completion of restoration, Mr. Tuan pointed out that the site’s management falls under two localities, requiring extensive coordination. All procedures, from establishing protective zoning records to developing investment and conservation project files and determining admission fees, must be approved by relevant agencies and leaders from both Thua Thien Hue and Da Nang.
“Completing these documents has taken considerable time. For instance, the protective zoning records required the approval of 17 agencies and units from both Hue and Da Nang. Advisory bodies from both provinces and cities are working diligently to open Hai Van Quan to tourism and provide the best possible experience for visitors,” Mr. Tuan stated.
