Explore Hoan Kiem Lake – The Cultural Heart of Hanoi
Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as the Lake of the Returned Sword, is the most iconic landmark in Hanoi. Steeped in legend and history, this peaceful lake lies in the heart of the capital and is surrounded by significant historical, cultural, and architectural sites.
1. Hoan Kiem Lake & the Legend
According to legend, King Le Loi returned a magical sword to the Golden Turtle God here after defeating the Chinese Ming Dynasty in 1428. From then, the Green Lake was renamed “Hoan Kiem,” meaning “Returned Sword.”
2. Turtle Tower (Thap Rua)
Located on a small islet in the southern lake, this tower built in 1886 is a symbol of Hanoi and is associated with the legendary turtle.
3. Ngoc Son Temple
This temple sits on Jade Island and honors military hero Tran Hung Dao. Inside, visitors will find statues of Taoist deities and two preserved giant turtles.
4. The Huc Bridge
Painted bright red, “The Huc” or “Morning Sunlight Bridge” links the temple to the lake shore. Built in 1865, it symbolizes life and renewal.
5. Writing Brush Tower (Thap But)
Shaped like a pen and inscribed with “Write on the blue sky,” this tower promotes the value of literature and education.
6. Ba Kieu Temple
Dedicated to Princess Lieu Hanh – one of the Four Immortals in Vietnamese folk belief – this 17th-century temple celebrates the Mother Goddess religion.
This sculpture honors Hanoians who fought during the First Indochina War. It features a soldier, a worker, and a woman in Ao Dai.
8. Hanoi Old Quarter
North and west of the lake lies Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter. Explore “36 streets” full of boutique shops, street food, silk, and souvenirs.
9. French Quarter
South and east of the lake is the elegant French Quarter, with yellow colonial buildings, wide boulevards, and landmarks like the Hanoi Opera House.
10. King Le Loi Statue
Tucked behind trees on the lake’s western edge, this bronze statue commemorates the legendary king and his sword story.
11. Hanoi Post Office
One of Hanoi’s oldest colonial buildings, the post office showcases French architecture and is still in use today.
12. Ly Thai To Garden
This peaceful park features a statue of King Ly Thai To, who established Hanoi as Vietnam’s capital in 1010.
Best Food Near Hoan Kiem Lake
- Long Vi Dung Beef Jerky Papaya Salad – Enjoy street food like a local at this hidden gem in the lake’s northern corner.
- Café Dinh – Sip Hanoi’s original egg coffee in a cozy, historic second-floor café.
- Cau Go Restaurant – Dine with stunning lake views and authentic Vietnamese flavors from a rooftop terrace.
- Trang Tien Ice Cream – A Hanoi institution since 1958. Cool off with a local favorite near the Opera House.
Discover the soul of Hanoi at Hoan Kiem Lake—a perfect mix of legend, history, culture, and cuisine.
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