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| The Imperial Guards standing watch in the Yellow City of Hue |
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| Cavalry of the Imperial Guard stand to horse outside of the Forbidden City. While small in comparrison to western horses, the Asian ponies were noted for their sturdiness and resiliency. It was on horses such as this that the Mongols conquered most of the known world. |
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| The Royal Elephants were very important members of the Imperial Guard. King Nguyen Hoang, founder of the Nguyen Dynasty created the first elephant corps and over the years they were recognized for their service. Some were made mandarins, given titles and special names. Emperor Thieu Tri named the elephant that carried him "The Good Dragon" when the animal was made an 'imperial elephant' that is, one that carried the Emperor. Emperor Gia Long even built a pagoda to honor the spirits that guarded the elephants who guarded the Emperor. A decree of worship was bestowed on them by Emperor Thieu Tri in 1842. |
| Besides actual troops of infantry, cavalry and the elephant regiment, the Nguyen Dynasty also relied on the legendary nine Holy Cannons of the Hue Palace. Cast in 1803 by Emperor Gia Long and completed in 1804, the nine cannons were constructed from the copperware of the Tay Son whom Gia Long defeated to unite Vietnam. Each one is dedicated to one of the five elements and four seasons. Their honorary title is "Supreme Army Commander whose majesty equals that of the spirits and whom nothing can withstand". Each cannon is engraved with its name, history, title and decorative wreaths and friezes as are the wooden carriages. Since their protection is spiritual, the cannons have never been fired, they protect Hue only with their divine presence. |