Bao Quoc Pagoda sits on a small hill in the Truong An ward, about two kilometres south of the Truong Tien Bridge — close enough to reach by bicycle but far enough from the main tourist circuit to feel genuinely quiet. Founded in the early 18th century and patronised by several Nguyen lords and emperors, it is one of the oldest pagodas in Hue and an important centre of Vietnamese Buddhism.
The main hall contains a large bronze bell cast in 1714, and the courtyard has several notable stone stelae. A monastic school associated with the pagoda has operated on the grounds since the 18th century; in the mornings you may see young monks moving between buildings for chanting sessions. The site is never crowded. Come in the morning when the chanting is underway and you will have one of Hue's more atmospheric experiences for the price of a bicycle rental.