Hoan Kiem Lake, or Sword Lake, is a famous and iconic tourist destination in the capital city of Hanoi, where you can immerse yourself in a poetic and peaceful atmosphere.
1. Discovering an Overview of Hoan Kiem Lake
Located in the center of the city, Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi is likened to a splendid emerald, attracting visitors with its peaceful beauty and immense historical and cultural values.
Hoan Kiem Lake covers an area of about 12 hectares, surrounded by bustling old streets such as Hang Dao, Luong Van Can, Hang Ngang… and modern Western-style streets like Trang Thi, Trang Tien, Ba Trieu. This prime location makes it a crossroads of traditional and modern beauty in Hanoi.
For a long time, Hoan Kiem Lake has become a symbol of the capital, an unmissable tourist destination for both domestic and international visitors. If you have the chance to stroll around the lake, you can enjoy the fresh, cool atmosphere as well as admire the serene water reflecting the shadows of ancient trees.
Hoan Kiem Lake has long become a symbol of the capital Hanoi.
2. Exploring the Legend of Ho Guom
Ho Guom is closely associated with the legend of King Le Loi returning the sword to the Golden Turtle. This legend has been passed down through generations and has become a symbol of the resilient spirit, independent will, and patriotism of the Vietnamese people.
According to legend, in the 15th century, when Le Loi raised an army to resist the Minh invaders in the Lam Son uprising, during a walk along the shore of Luc Thuy Lake (the former name of Ho Hoan Kiem), he discovered a brilliant sword blade along with a hilt inscribed with the words “Thuan Thien” and “Loi.” Believing this was a heavenly treasure, Le Loi forged it into a sword and named it Thuan Thien. Thanks to this precious sword, the Lam Son insurgents achieved resounding victories, driving the Minh army out of the country.
In early 1428, after ascending the throne, King Le Thai To (Le Loi) sailed on the Tả Vọng Lake (also the name of Ho Hoan Kiem at that time). Suddenly, the Golden Turtle emerged from the water and asked to reclaim the sword. The king understood the Golden Turtle’s intent and drew the sword to hand over. The sword flew from the king’s hand, soared into the sky, and disappeared in the thicket atop Turtle Tower.
The legend of Ho Hoan Kiem expresses the spirit of unity and the resilient will of the Vietnamese people in their struggle against foreign invaders. The precious sword symbolizes the strength and patriotism of the Vietnamese, representing the belief in victory over the invading enemy.
The legend of King Lê Thái Tổ returning the sword to the Golden Turtle.
3. Places of entertainment at Hoan Kiem Lake
3.1 Turtle Tower
Majestically located on Turtle Hill in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, Turtle Tower is a unique architectural symbol, an impressive highlight of the poetic landscape of Hoan Kiem Lake. The tower was built between 1884 and 1886, featuring a strong French architectural influence combined with traditional Vietnamese details.
Turtle Tower has 3 levels, built in a rectangular shape, gradually narrowing from the bottom up. The front and back of the tower have 2 pointed arched doors, and the sides have 3 arched doors. The 1st and 2nd floors are surrounded by a railing with 4 curved eaves rising to the top. The top of the tower is shaped like a five-pointed star, symbolizing the nation of Vietnam.
With its special location and unique architecture, Turtle Tower has become a cultural symbol of Hanoi. The image of Turtle Tower appears in many poems, paintings, and is an indispensable part of the soul of the capital’s residents.
The Turtle Tower stands majestically in the Hoan Kiem Lake.
3.2 Ngoc Son Temple
Built in the 19th century, Ngoc Son Temple showcases unique architectural beauty, reflecting the essence of Vietnamese culture and beliefs. The temple is constructed in a traditional architectural style with intricate decorative details. The temple gate is carved with majestic dragons and phoenixes, while the roof arches like a crescent, creating a graceful and delicate beauty. Inside the temple are statues of Buddha and deities, embodying the devotion and reverence of the people.
Ngoc Son Temple represents the essence of Vietnamese culture and beliefs.
3.3 Pen Tower – Ink Stone
Located in the Northeast of Hoan Kiem Lake, the Pen Tower and Ink Stone are two architectural works built in 1865 during the reign of King Tu Duc. These two structures are connected and symbolize the Vietnamese people’s tradition of valuing education.
The Ink Stone consists of three supports shaped like three frogs resting on three legs. On the body of the stone, there is an inscription consisting of 64 Chinese characters composed by Nguyen Van Sieu, praising the tradition of valuing education and the spirit of learning among the Vietnamese.
The Pen Tower is designed to resemble a brush, standing 9 meters tall with a pointed tip raised straight into the sky. The tower’s body is carved with the words “Ta Thanh Thien” (writing up to the blue sky), reflecting the desire to rise high and the spirit of learning in the nation.
The Pen Tower and Ink Stone are symbols of the Vietnamese people’s tradition of valuing education.
3.4 The Huc Bridge
The Huc Bridge is a bright red wooden bridge that spans Hoàn Kiếm Lake, connecting the lake’s shore to Ngcc Son Temple. The bridge was built in 1865 by “Than Sieu” Nguyen Van Sieu, symbolizing the gathering of radiance.
The Huc Bridge features a gracefully curved architecture resembling a shrimp, with 15 spans and 32 round wooden pillars arranged in 16 pairs. The bridge’s surface is paved with lim wood, and its railings are painted bright red, adorned with 36 balusters shaped like tongs. The Huc Bridge is one of the symbols of Hanoi, contributing to the poetic and ancient beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake.
The Huc Bridge stands out in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake.
3.5 Hanoi Opera House
The Hanoi Opera House is majestically located on August Revolution Square, at the beginning of the bustling Trang Tien Street, in the Hoan Kiem district. This prime central location makes the opera house a prominent architectural highlight that attracts all eyes.
Built in 1901 by the French, the opera house bears the strong imprint of classical French architecture. Notable is the façade with its column system, curved arch roof, and exquisite decorative details, showcasing elegance and class.
Inside, the opera house is lavishly decorated with dominant shades of red and intricate design patterns. The spacious stage is equipped with modern sound and lighting systems, catering to the needs of a variety of artistic performance programs.
The Hanoi Opera House features outstanding architecture.
3.6 Hanoi Old Quarter
The Hanoi Old Quarter is an area consisting of 36 streets and wards located in the heart of the capital, surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake. It is considered the heart of Hanoi, preserving ancient traditional cultural values.
The Hanoi Old Quarter is famous for its ancient tube houses, built in the 19th and 20th centuries. These houses typically have narrow facades, deep interiors, curved tiled roofs, and small windows.
When visiting, you can explore historical sites such as Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, and the Hanoi Opera House, or shop at traditional stores and enjoy Hanoi’s specialties like pho, bun cha, and com…
The Hanoi Old Quarter has an ancient vibe.
3.7 Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre was established in 1956 and is the first and only water puppet theatre in Vietnam. It has become a symbol of this unique traditional art form, helping to bring Vietnamese water puppetry to international friends.
The Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre regularly performs traditional water puppet shows such as “The Tale of Trong Quynh,” “The Legend of Betel and Areca,” “Thach Sanh,” etc. In addition, the theatre also has puppet shows for children and international tourists.
Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre
3.8 Ba Kieu Temple
Ba Kieu Temple, also known as Thien Tien Dien, was built during the Le Trung Hung period (17th century) and is located at 59 Dinh Tien Hoang Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. The temple is dedicated to Mother Lieu Hanh, one of the saints in the worship of the Four Palaces in Vietnamese belief.
Ba Kieu Temple features traditional architecture with two main parts: the Tam Quan (gate) and the temple hall. The Tam Quan is built in a two-tiered style with curved tiled roofs. Inside the Tam Quan, there is a large inscription “Thien Tien Dien.” The temple hall consists of two sections: the front section is where the altar for Mother Lieu Hanh is placed, and the back section is where the altars for other deities are located.
Ba Kieu Temple worships Mother Lieu Hanh.
3.9 Hòa Phong Tower
The Hòa Phong Tower stands majestically on the eastern shore of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, a rare ancient relic of Báo Ân Temple, a large temple built in the 19th century. Its unique location makes the tower an impressive architectural highlight that captures the attention of visitors to Hoàn Kiếm Lake.
The Hòa Phong Tower is designed in a square tower style, consisting of three levels that gradually decrease in size towards the top. The first level features four arched doors facing four directions, symbolizing the connection with heaven and earth and the four cardinal points. The second and third levels are decorated with stone lion statues facing east.
The Hòa Phong Tower is a testament to a glorious historical period of the nation. The tower stands tall through many ups and downs, witnessing the country’s fluctuations and marking the unique cultural, architectural, and artistic values.
The Hòa Phong Tower is a remaining relic of Báo Ân Temple.
3.10 Temple of King Lê
The Temple of King Lê is majestically located on the west bank of Hoàn Kiếm Lake, near the Nam Hương communal house, in Hoàn Kiếm district, Hanoi. This prime location makes it easy for visitors to access and explore, while also contributing to the appreciation of the historical and cultural values of the site.
The temple is built in the traditional Vietnamese architectural style with curved roofs and soaring eaves. Inside the temple, there is an altar dedicated to King Lê Thái Tổ and other kings of the Lê dynasty. Prominently featured in the temple’s courtyard is a statue of King Lê Thái Tổ standing on a high pedestal, holding a sword, symbolizing the heroic spirit of the founder of the dynasty.
The Temple of King Lê has traditional Vietnamese architecture.
4. When is the best time to visit Hoan Kiem Lake?
Each season of the year, Hoan Kiem Lake adorns itself with a distinct beauty, enchanting anyone who visits.
In spring, Hoan Kiem Lake awakens after the cold winter days with the vibrant colors of peach blossoms. The weather is warm and pleasant, ideal for strolling and sightseeing. This is also the time when you can participate in traditional festivals such as the One Pillar Pagoda Festival and the Old Quarter Summer Festival.
In summer, Hoan Kiem Lake is the perfect place to escape the sweltering heat while enjoying recreational activities like cycling and rowing, or savoring refreshing treats like Trang Tien ice cream.
In autumn, the weather at Hoan Kiem Lake is cool and pleasant with a clear blue sky. This is the most beautiful season for you to wander around the lake and enjoy the fresh atmosphere. Finally, when winter arrives, Hoan Kiem Lake dons a peaceful and poetic beauty.
Strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake is enjoyable in any season.
5. Exploring countless attractive dining spots around Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is not only famous for its poetic scenery but also attracts visitors with its rich and diverse culinary culture. Here are some suggestions for extremely appealing dining spots around Hoan Kiem Lake:
5.1 Shark Fin Building
Located at the beginning of Hang Đao Street and Cau Go Street, the Shark Fin Building has one of the most prime locations in the Hoan Kiem area. It not only attracts tourists with its unique architecture but also offers a stunning view of the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake.
Built in 1993, the Shark Fin Building is one of the first high-rise buildings in Hanoi. With its unique geometric design, the building is likened to a giant “shark” stretching out towards Hoan Kiem Lake.
The Shark Fin Building boasts one of the most prime locations in the Hoan Kiem area
5.2 To Tich Street
To Tich Street has long been famous for its stalls selling delicious and enticing mixed fruit and yogurt. Along this small street, you can easily find countless options for your favorite dessert.
Mixed fruit is the most loved dish on hot summer days. The sweet and sour refreshing taste of various fruits combined with finely shaved ice creates an incredibly revitalizing flavor. Toppings like jelly, tapioca pearls, and shredded coconut make the dish even more appealing.
Yogurt is also a must-try when visiting To Tich Street. The yogurt here is made from fresh cow’s milk, rich and smooth in flavor. You can enjoy yogurt with various toppings such as fresh fruit, granola, and honey.
In addition to mixed fruit and yogurt, To Tich Street also offers many other delicious desserts such as Thai pudding, grapefruit pudding, and durian pudding. Each dessert has its own distinctive flavor, providing you with interesting culinary experiences.
The prices of the dishes here are quite reasonable, suitable for the pocket of students. The space of the stalls, although not very large, is quite airy and clean. To Tich Street is an ideal place for you and your friends or family to enjoy delicious and refreshing desserts.
5.3 Trang Tien Ice Cream
When mentioning Hoan Kiem Lake, no one is unaware of Trang Tien ice cream, a long-standing and one of the most famous ice cream brands in Hanoi. Located on the bustling Trang Tien street, Trang Tien ice cream has become a cultural symbol of the capital, closely associated with the childhood of countless generations of Hanoians.
Trang Tien ice cream is the oldest and most famous in Hanoi.
5.4 Old Quarter Cafe 11 Hang Gai
Tucked away in a small alley on Hàng Gai street, the Old Quarter Cafe 11 gives you the feeling of stepping into a different world, completely separated from the bustling noise of the old town. To reach the café, you must navigate through winding narrow alleys and climb up old stairs.
Upon entering the café, you will immediately sense the nostalgic atmosphere with its rustic wooden tables and chairs, antique wall paintings, and shimmering lanterns.
From the cafe’s elevated position, you can admire the picturesque scenery of Hoan Kiem Lake and the busy ancient streets. This is an ideal spot for you to relax and enjoy the fresh air of Hanoi.
Old Quarter Cafe 11 is famous for its unique egg coffee. The creamy richness of the egg yolk blends with the light bitterness of the coffee, creating an unforgettable flavor.
5.5 Thuy Ta Ice Cream
Thuy Ta Ice Cream is one of the most famous ice cream brands in Hanoi, alongside Tràng Tiền ice cream. Established in 1954, Thuy Ta ice cream has become an indispensable part of the memories of Hanoi residents and a favorite destination for visitors when coming to Hoan Kiem Lake.
5.6 Bun Cha
If you don’t have much time to travel but want to enjoy delicious bun cha in Hanoi, you can go to Cau Go Street. There is a good bun cha restaurant located opposite the Cau Go market alley that is usually very crowded. The bun cha here is delicious with fragrant grilled meat pieces, served with vermicelli, fresh herbs, and flavorful dipping sauce. The prices are also very reasonable.
Hanoi bun cha is delicious and you should try it at least once.
6. Guide on how to get to Hoan Kiem Lake
Below are the ways to get to Hoan Kiem Lake that MIA.vn has compiled:
Walking
– If you are in the Old Quarter, the simplest way to get to Hoan Kiem Lake is by walking. It only takes a few minutes on foot from most locations in the Old Quarter.
– You can refer to a tourist map or ask local people for directions.
Motorbike taxi
– If you want to move faster or don’t want to walk, you can use a motorbike taxi.
– The fare is quite cheap, only about 20,000 – 30,000 VND for a short distance.
– You can call a motorbike taxi using apps like Grab, Gojek, or Be.
Bicycle rental
– Bicycles are an interesting option to explore the area around Hoan Kiem Lake.
– You can rent bicycles at bike rental shops or hotels.
– The rental price is usually 50,000 – 100,000 VND/day.
Bus
– If you are far from the Old Quarter, you can take the bus to Hoan Kiem Lake.
– There are many bus routes that pass by Hoan Kiem Lake, including routes 09, 14, and 36.
– The bus fare is 7,000 VND per trip.
7. Useful Travel Experiences at Hoan Kiem Lake
Traveling to Hoan Kiem Lake offers you wonderful moments of relaxation.
To have the best touring experience when visiting Hoan Kiem Lake, remember the following useful tips:
– Walking is the ideal option to explore the attractions around Hoan Kiem Lake because the distances are not too far.
– If you want to experience the cyclo service, ask the driver in advance about the distance and price to avoid being overcharged.
– Around Hoan Kiem Lake, Dong Xuan Market and the old streets have many shops selling a variety of goods. You can buy souvenirs like: handicrafts, Hanoi green rice cakes, dried fruits, etc.
– According to Hanoi travel experience, you should go shopping in the afternoon for convenience in price inquiries, as shops usually don’t like customers who ask without buying anything in the morning.
– For convenience in visiting, you should choose a hotel near Hoan Kiem Lake or in the old quarter.
– It is advisable to book rooms in advance from a few weeks to a month, especially during peak season, to avoid the situation of fully booked hotels.
Hoan Kiem Lake is an ideal destination for those who want to learn about the history, culture, and people of Hanoi. With the insights shared in this article, hopefully, you will have a complete and memorable trip to Hoan Kiem Lake.
