[2] Like a number of Vietnamese emperors, Khải Định desired the preparation of a tomb in anticipation of his death, but he was the last member of the Nguyễn dynasty to make this decision.

However, Swart and Till argue that while the French, who controlled the nation's finances, "did increase taxes substantially during [the Emperor's] reign", they would have been unlikely to do so solely for the purpose of the tomb.

It is largely made of concrete, steel, iron, and slate, and the use of these "modern" materials, as opposed to wood or brick, "was thought to allude power and permanence."

The entrance of the tomb complex features a grand staircase, which ends at the first terrace with a triple-arched memorial gateway, including images of "two five-clawed dragons contending over a flaming pearl."

The Western-styled building has arched column entrances, with side panels decorated with the Chinese character for longevity, shòu (壽), and surrounded by bats, representing blessings.

It is in a French colonial style, with geometric designs of swastikas, dragons, and longevity symbols carved into the stone, along with panels depicting four-character phrases taken from the Analects by Confucius.

The rear room of the palace is home to a temple containing Khải Định's grave, an altar to him, and another bronze statue of his likeness seated in traditional imperial clothing, cast in Marseilles.