Anh Chu Tuan
Google
Hoàn Kiếm Lake (officially named Hoàn Kiếm Lake) is one of Hanoi’s top attractions, vividly embodying the culture and unique essence of Vietnam’s thousand-year-old capital. Located in the heart of Hanoi and spanning about 12 hectares, Hoàn Kiếm Lake is not only a natural landmark but also a spiritual symbol, often called "the heart of Hanoi."
Hoàn Kiếm Lake uniquely blends legend and reality. According to a famous legend, the lake was home to a giant divine turtle that presented a sacred sword to King Lê Lợi, Vietnam’s first Lê dynasty king, to defeat the Ming invaders in the early 15th century. After securing independence, while strolling by the lake, the king encountered the divine turtle, which reclaimed the sacred sword, hence the name Hoàn Kiếm, meaning "returned sword."
Interestingly, the lake was once home to a rare species of giant softshell turtle, *Rafetus swinhoei*, capable of living for centuries and one of the rarest creatures in the world. This is the most fascinating aspect of Hoàn Kiếm Lake: the intertwining of mythical legend and reality, creating an inseparable mystique between the two.
Surrounding the lake are ancient, shady trees that create a poetic and serene atmosphere. The lake’s water has a distinctive jade-green hue due to a unique species of algae living at its bottom, giving it a singular beauty exclusive to Hoàn Kiếm.
Sadly, the last known giant turtle, estimated to be centuries old, died in 2016. However, visitors can still view its carefully preserved taxidermy specimen at Ngọc Sơn Temple, located on an island in the lake.
At the center of the lake stands Turtle Tower, an iconic symbol of Hanoi. Originally built during the Lê dynasty (15th–16th centuries) as a small pavilion for the king to fish and enjoy the scenery, the original structure was destroyed, and the current tower was rebuilt in the early 20th century. Though its modern architecture sparks mixed opinions aesthetically, when viewed within the broader landscape of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, it harmonizes beautifully, evoking a sense of timeless tranquility.
Ngọc Sơn Temple, situated on Jade Island in the lake, is connected to the shore by the vibrant red Thê Húc Bridge. The temple is dedicated to Trần Hưng Đạo, Văn Xương Đế Quân, and La Tổ. The Thê Húc Bridge (meaning "Cloud-Touching Bridge"), with its gracefully curved, dragon-like design, is one of Hanoi’s most photographed landmarks.
To truly experience Hanoi’s poetic and peaceful charm, visit Hoàn Kiếm Lake between 5:30–6:30 AM. At this time, the lake is frequented only by locals exercising, the air is fresh, and the scenery is breathtakingly serene. Other times of the day can be crowded with tourists.
A particularly vibrant time to visit is from Friday evening through Sunday night, when the roads around the lake are closed to vehicles, transforming the area into a lively pedestrian zone filled with cultural and street art activities.
When visiting Hoàn Kiếm Lake, make time to explore nearby cultural sites:
- **Hanoi Old Quarter**: A historic area with 36 traditional streets, preserving Hanoi’s ancient architecture and culture.
- **Lý Thái Tổ Statue**: A monument honoring the king who founded Thăng Long (modern-day Hanoi).
- **Đông Kinh Nghĩa Thục Square**: A significant cultural space in the capital.
- **Hanoi Opera House**: A renowned example of French colonial architecture.
- **Đồng Xuân Market**: The largest traditional market in the Old Quarter.
- Hanoi Cathedral.
On weekends, foreign visitors may encounter Vietnamese youths practicing English through friendly conversations—a unique cultural feature of Hoàn Kiếm Lake. If time permits, engage with them; it’s a meaningful way to contribute to cultural exchange and education.
**Visitor Information**:
- Ngọc Sơn Temple has a small entrance fee (approximately 30,000 VND).
- Dress respectfully when visiting the temple.
- Avoid making noise and help keep the environment clean.
- Numerous cafés and restaurants around the lake offer places to relax.
Hanoi is most beautiful in autumn, you have to be lucky to see it
