Ru Cha Islet is one of the few places in central Hue City that people can experience the autumn leaves of cha (excoecaria agallocha – a mangrove species) trees. The islet has become a must-visit destination for photographers around the country.
(Photo: thanhnien.vn)
Ru Cha is a tiny islet (ru) on the Tam Giang Lagoon in central Thua Thien - Hue Province. Originally, Ru Cha was a mangrove forest before local people encroached on the land for farming, leaving the emerging part of the forest a 5ha islet.
Leaves on cha trees are green during summer and turn red and yellow in autumn. During winter, the trees appear have bare branches before blossoming in spring.
People visit the islet during summer for cool breezes and the shade of the cha trees. In the middle of the islet, local authorities constructed a 5m tall tower that provides a good view of the islet.
The islet is also a pilgrimage place for hau dong during the lunar months of March and July thanks to an old temple amidst the trees. Visitors can eat brackish water fish and shrimp and poultry served by the only couple who live on the islet if they make an advance reservation.