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Exploring Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake, located in the heart of Hanoi, is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Its serene beauty and rich cultural and historical significance make it a must-visit destination for anyone touring the capital of Vietnam. Hoan Kiem Lake is more than just a scenic spot; it’s a gateway to Hanoi’s rich history and culture, surrounded by vibrant local life and fascinating landmarks.

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1. History & Legend

Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as “The Lake of the Returned Sword” (Vietnamese: Hồ Hoàn Kiếm), holds a central place in Hanoi’s history and culture. This iconic fresh water lake, measuring around 12 hectares, is located in the heart of the city and has been known by various names throughout history. Formerly called Luc Thuy Lake (Hồ Lục Thủy, meaning “Green Water Lake” for its distinctive color) and Thuy Quan Lake (Hồ Thủy Quân, meaning “Mariner’s Lake”), the lake was also referred to as Ta Vong during the Le Mat Dynasty.

The Legend of the Returned Sword

The lake’s modern name is linked to a famous legend involving Le Loi, a 15th-century Vietnamese king. According to the story, Le Loi came across a mysterious metal bar, which was caught by a friend during a fishing trip. The bar was later revealed to be a sword, inscribed with the words “Thuan Thien” (meaning “harmonious with heaven”). Le Loi understood that this sword was a divine gift, and he used it to lead his forces to victory against the invading Ming Chinese.

After securing Vietnam’s independence in 1428, King Le Loi was boating on the lake when the Golden Turtle God emerged from the water. The turtle asked for the return of the magical sword, and recognizing that the sword had fulfilled its purpose, Le Loi returned it by offering it to the turtle. The turtle took the sword in its mouth and disappeared into the lake’s depths. In honor of this event, the lake was renamed Hoan Kiem Lake, symbolizing the return of the sword to its rightful divine owner.

This legend has made Hoan Kiem Lake not only a natural beauty but also a symbol of Vietnam’s independence, resilience, and connection to the divine.

2. Hoan Kiem Lake Over View

Hoan Kiem Lake, once much larger than its current size, has seen significant changes over time, especially during the French colonial period when parts of it were filled in to make way for the expansion of Hanoi. Today, the lake covers an area of around 120,000 square meters, with a maximum length of 700 meters and a width of 250 meters. The lake’s depth ranges from 1 to 1.4 meters on average.

• Unique Features of Hoan Kiem Lake:
• Distinctive Water Color: One of the lake’s most striking features is its greenish water, which changes in shade depending on the sky’s reflection. This unique color sets it apart from other lakes in Vietnam.
• Turtles in the Lake: The lake is home to giant turtles, which are rarely found in other lakes across the country. These turtles hold a special place in Vietnamese culture, where they are considered sacred animals, along with the dragon, phoenix, and unicorn. The sight of these turtles rising from the lake is seen as a lucky and spiritual event, further enhancing the lake’s holy status in Vietnamese tradition.
• Key Landmarks Around the Lake:
• Turtle Tower (Tháp Rùa): This small tower stands on an island in the center of the lake and serves as a symbol of both the lake and the city of Hanoi. It adds a tranquil and mystical charm to the surrounding landscape.
• The Huc Bridge (Cầu Thê Húc): This vibrant red bridge crosses the lake and connects to Ngoc Son Temple. The bridge’s name means “The Rising Sun” and it beautifully complements the temple, creating a picturesque and serene atmosphere.
• Ngoc Son Temple: Situated on a small island, this temple is a popular cultural and religious site, surrounded by the peaceful waters of Hoan Kiem Lake.

Additionally, the lake’s shores are adorned with a variety of flowers that bloom throughout the year, enhancing the lake’s beauty and making it a peaceful oasis in the bustling city of Hanoi.

Hoan Kiem Lake is not just a scenic landmark but also a cultural and spiritual symbol for the Vietnamese people, offering a blend of natural beauty and historical significance.

3. What to see around Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake surroundings offer variety of activities which make it crowded and busy all day, especially during the weekends. Let’s find out what to see and where to visit around this popular lake.

3.1. Ngoc Son Temple

The Temple of the Jade Mountain (Ngoc Son Temple) is an important cultural and historical site located on the northern shore of Hoan Kiem Lake, standing on Jade Island. Built in the 18th century, the temple is primarily dedicated to Tran Hung Dao, a revered Vietnamese national hero who led the country to victory against Mongol invasions three times during the 13th century.

• Features of Ngoc Son Temple:
• Tran Hung Dao’s Shrine: As the temple’s central figure, Tran Hung Dao is honored with altars and statues inside, symbolizing his contributions to Vietnam’s independence and resilience.
• Artifacts and Historical Relics: The temple contains various artifacts that showcase Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage. Visitors can find traditional altars and ceremonial items that reflect the importance of this site in Vietnamese history and religious life.
• Preserved Giant Turtle: One of the temple’s most notable displays is a preserved specimen of a giant turtle, weighing 250 kg. This turtle connects to the legend of Hoan Kiem Lake, further enhancing the spiritual significance of the temple and its surroundings.

3.2. The Huc Bridge

The Huc Bridge: The Huc Bridge, also known as “The Bridge of the Rising Sun,” is a bright red wooden bridge that connects Jade Island to the mainland. The bridge, with its distinctive color and elegant design, has become one of Hanoi’s most recognizable landmarks, symbolizing good fortune and longevity. The bridge adds a romantic, picturesque element to the temple, especially during sunrise and sunset when the light reflects beautifully off the lake’s surface.

Ngoc Son Temple and The Huc Bridge together form a significant part of the Hoan Kiem Lake experience, offering visitors a blend of history, spirituality, and stunning architecture amidst the tranquility of the lake.

3.3. Turtle Tower

Turtle Tower (Tháp Rùa) is one of Hanoi’s most iconic landmarks, standing on a small island in the center of Hoan Kiem Lake. Despite its relatively modest size and non-traditional Vietnamese architectural style, the tower holds great historical and cultural significance for the people of Hanoi. Turtle Tower’s combination of historical meaning and visual appeal makes it a cherished part of Hanoi’s landscape, embodying both the struggles and hopes of the Vietnamese people.

3.4. Thap But

Tháp Bút (Pen Tower) stands at the entrance to Ngoc Son Temple, an important feature of the landscape around Hoan Kiem Lake. Built in 1865 at the proposal of the respected scholar Nguyen Van Sieu, the tower symbolizes both intellectual and moral values in Vietnamese culture.

• Architectural Features:
• Height and Structure: Tháp Bút rises to a height of 28 meters and consists of five floors. It is built on a four-meter-high stone base, giving the tower a sense of grandeur.
• Design: The tip of the tower is shaped like a writing brush, or “bút” in Vietnamese, symbolizing intellectual pursuit. The brush itself is 0.9 meters tall, making the whole tower a striking visual representation of scholarly wisdom.
• Symbolism:
• “Writing on the Clear Blue Sky”: The words “Tả Thanh Thiên” (translated as “Writing on the clear blue sky”) are engraved on the tower. This phrase represents the idea of integrity and truthfulness, advocating for moral uprightness and clear-minded thinking.
• Feng Shui Principle: Pen Tower is considered a key element in the feng shui of the area surrounding Ngoc Son Temple. It is positioned to balance the natural and spiritual energies of the site, making it a place not only of learning but also of harmony.
• Symbol of Literature and Martial Power: While primarily a tribute to the importance of literature and intellectual pursuits, Pen Tower also reflects the balance of knowledge and power. It is said to demonstrate the strength and martial prowess of the Trinh Lord, blending the values of scholarship with those of military leadership.

Overall, Tháp Bút serves as a powerful symbol in Vietnamese culture, celebrating the significance of literature, truthfulness, and the balanced union of intellect and power. Its location at the entrance to Ngoc Son Temple makes it an essential part of the spiritual and cultural experience at Hoan Kiem Lake.

4. What to do around Hoan Kiem Lake

4.1. Joining Taichi class and Dancing

Visiting Hoan Kiem Lake in the early morning, from 5 am to 6 am, offers a serene and refreshing experience like no other. At this time, the lake is often cloaked in a soft mist, with the sound of birdsongs filling the air, creating a peaceful atmosphere that contrasts sharply with the usual hustle and bustle of Hanoi. The cool, crisp air adds to the tranquility, making it the perfect time to appreciate the lake’s beauty.

It is ideal time for exercise and dancing while breathing in the fresh air. Every morning, flocks of local residents gather here for doing exercise including yoga, aerobic and tai-chi. Tourists are also welcomed to join these fun activities and communicate with the locals.

The early morning at Hoan Kiem Lake offers a rare glimpse into the daily life of Hanoians, where tradition and modernity come together in a harmonious way. It’s a time when the lake’s natural beauty and the city’s vibrant culture coexist in perfect balance, making it an ideal moment to enjoy the peaceful ambiance, connect with locals, and start the day in a refreshing way.

4.2. Water Puppet Show

The water puppet show is a unique and legendary form of traditional Vietnamese art, deeply rooted in the country’s rural culture. Originating from the Red River Delta centuries ago, this form of entertainment involves puppets performing on water, accompanied by live music and storytelling.

There are two main puppet theaters sat on the lake including Bong Sen Puppet Theater and Thang Long Puppet Theater.

Both theaters offer visitors the chance to witness a unique part of Vietnam’s cultural heritage. The shows are not only entertaining but also educational, allowing audiences to immerse themselves in the stories and traditions that have shaped Vietnamese history and folklore.

For any visitor to Hanoi, attending a water puppet show is an essential experience that provides a window into the country’s rich cultural traditions.

4.3. Experience walking streets & Hang Dao street night market at the weekend

During the weekend evenings, the area around Hoan Kiem Lake transforms into a vibrant public square, where traffic is banned from 7 PM to 12 AM. This pedestrian zone creates a lively and family-friendly atmosphere where locals and tourists gather to enjoy cultural activities.

• Weekend Pedestrian Street:

• Folk Games & Traditional Music Performances: One of the most charming aspects of the Hanoi pedestrian street is the focus on folk games and traditional music performances. Visitors can witness or participate in games like tug-of-war, bamboo dancing, or spinning tops, which are beloved traditional Vietnamese pastimes. Street performers also showcase traditional Vietnamese instruments and music, creating an atmosphere of cultural celebration.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: The car-free streets allow for leisurely strolls around Hoan Kiem Lake, where people can enjoy the sights and sounds of Hanoi without the usual hustle and bustle. Families, couples, and friends come together to walk, play games, and take in the fresh air and entertainment.
• Hang Dao Night Market:

Running from 6 PM to 11 PM on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, the Hang Dao Night Market is another popular attraction near Hoan Kiem Lake. The market stretches from Hang Dao Street through Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square, all the way to the gate of Dong Xuan Market.

• Shopping for Souvenirs: The night market is a great place to shop for a wide variety of local souvenirs, including traditional handicrafts, clothing, and accessories. Vendors sell everything from embroidered textiles to conical hats, making it an excellent spot for picking up unique mementos of your trip.
• Local Snacks: In addition to shopping, the market offers a fantastic range of local snacks and street food. From Vietnamese spring rolls and pho to sweet treats like chè (a type of Vietnamese dessert), there are plenty of delicious options to try while exploring the market.

The combination of the pedestrian streets and the night market makes the weekend at Hoan Kiem Lake a perfect time to experience Hanoi’s vibrant local culture, offering a delightful blend of tradition, entertainment, and street food.

4.4. Discovering Old Quarter

The Hanoi Old Quarter, located in the northeast of Hanoi within the Hoan Kiem District, is a historic and cultural hub of the city. This area once served as the residential, manufacturing, and commercial center of Hanoi, with each street dedicated to a specific type of trade or craft. The quarter is often referred to as the 36 Streets (Vietnamese: Hà Nội 36 phố phường), symbolizing the original 36 guilds that made up the city’s bustling urban area. Although most streets no longer exclusively specialize in their original trades, many of their names still reflect the types of goods once sold there, preserving the unique identity of the Old Quarter.

One of the most enjoyable ways to experience the Hanoi Old Quarter is by taking a ride on a cyclo, a classic human-powered vehicle with a seat for passengers in the front and the driver pedaling from behind. This leisurely mode of transportation allows visitors to soak in the bustling atmosphere of Hanoi at a slower pace.

he Hanoi Old Quarter is not only a historical area but also a living, breathing part of the city, where tradition and modernity come together. Walking or riding through its narrow streets gives you a feel for the pulse of Hanoi, where centuries-old trade practices and modern businesses coexist in a unique blend of past and present.

Exploring the Old Quarter is essential for anyone wanting to fully experience the cultural richness and vibrant energy of Hanoi.

4.5. Enjoying street foods & bistro cafes

Near Hoan Kiem Lake, don’t miss Trang Tien Ice Cream, a beloved local spot offering a delightful variety of flavors such as chocolate, vanilla, young glutinous rice, green bean, and Indian taro.

For those who enjoy high-end shopping, Trang Tien Plaza Shopping Mall is an excellent choice. Home to prestigious international brands like Bvlgari, Dior, Cartier, and Louis Vuitton, this mall was originally built in 1901 in the French colonial style and underwent renovations to achieve its current appearance in 2013. As one of the oldest shopping centers in Hanoi, it’s conveniently located at a corner next to Hoan Kiem Lake.

Additionally, savoring delicious Vietnamese cuisine with a stunning view of Hoan Kiem Lake at Cau Go restaurant or enjoying drinks and coffee from the Hàm Cá Mập (Shark Jaw) building can enhance your experience in this beautiful area.

Street food is a must-try when visiting the Hoan Kiem Lake area. The variety of food choices is impressive, and dishes are available at budget-friendly to affordable prices, making it easy to enjoy local cuisine no matter where you choose to dine. Don’t miss trying iconic Vietnamese dishes like pho, bun cha, cha ca, bun thang, and bun dau mam tom—each offering a unique taste of Hanoi’s culinary heritage.