Whenever Hanoi – a culturally wealthy capital of the naked – mentioned, one name at all times stands out: Hoàn Kiếm Lake. The lake, covering about 12 hectares with a mean depth of 1 to 1.4 meters, shouldn’t be only the central landmarks, but in addition the colourful center for residents and guests.
From the fifteenth century, the Lake Cicoa was witnessing the legendary story about Emperor Le Loi, who returns the magic sword to the God of the Golden Turtle. This myth transformed its name from Luc Thuy (Green Water Lake) to Hoàn Kiếm – “Lake of the Return of the Sword”.
The lake surrounded by lush trees and well -hardened paths serves as an urban oasis. In the morning, fresh air and vivid activities of residents harmonize town’s peace due to the dynamic pulse. At night, the lights shining on the water create a romantic charm, due to which it’s a place to go to anyone who’s searching for Hanoi’s essence.
The legend of the Great Turtle
Derived from Hanoi flavorsThe legend of Hoàn Kiếm Lake dates back to the fifteenth century, when Emperor Le Loi conducted a insurrection against the Chinese Ming dynasty. According to folklore, the emperor received a holy sword from Dragon King (Long Vương) through a large golden turtle (Kim Qui), who emerged from the lake.
The sword gave him the strength of the invaders. After the victory, sailing on the lake, Kim Qui appeared again to regain the sword. The emperor returned him, and the lake was renamed Hoàn Kiếm – a certificate of devotion to the emperor for his homeland.
This story is greater than a myth. In 2011, an 80-100-year-old giant Softshell turtle weighing 220 kg was discovered within the lake, strengthening centuries. Tragically pollution and lack of habitats pushed these turtles to almost extinction. The death of the last known person in 2016 emphasizes the urgency of the lake ecosystem behavior.
Musinitatiit Stires across the lake
As the perfect tourist attraction of Hanoi, Lake Hoàn Kiếm is surrounded by cultural and historical monuments. Below are key attractions:
1. Thap Rua (Turtle Tower)
Standing on a small island in the middle of the lake, this tower symbolizes the Vietno -Nowam nationalism. Built in 1886, its architecture combines French and Vietnamese-inspired European base with a standard curved Asian roof. Although not available, the tower is essentially the most striking after bathing within the golden light at night.
2. Temple of NGOC SON (Jade Mountain Temple)
Connected with the fiery Red Huc bridge, the temple was founded in 184. Vietnam Museum of HistoryThis temple was originally dedicated to “three clever men” by Wenchang Dijun, Guan Yu and Lü Dongbin. At one point, the national hero, Trầng ạo, was incorporated into the temple. Inside, guests can see a group of historical artifacts, including a big turtle statue.
3. HUC bridge (HUC MOST)
This red wood bridge was built by the scholar Nguyen Van Sieu in 1865. Its red color symbolizes happiness and life, while its position is directed to the east as a friendly sunrise. The bridge is commonly a preferred photographic background for tourists.
4. Statue of Emperor Le Thai to
King Le Thai to Temple, situated within the architectural complex at 16 Le Thai to Street (Hang Trong District, Hoàn Kiếm District), is one among the oldest monuments in Hanoi. The statue of King Le and his commemorative architectural complex were in-built 1894 to commemorate the King’s substances in defeating the enemy and commemorating the legend of the return of the magic sword to God the turtle in Lake Hoàn Kiếm.
Experiencing local life
In addition to having fun with natural beauty and the story around Lake Hoàn Kiếm, there are also various local classes and attractions that guests can enjoy. Visitors can enjoy the great thing about the lake while walking on the lake. Fresh air and soothing scenery will make you’re feeling relaxed and calm.
Visitors can enjoy delicious local food in Vietnamese food across the lake. Restaurants and stalls with food are set to varied appetizing traditional dishes, comparable to legendary coffee with eggs, pho (beef) or ball (local sandwiches).
Every Saturday and Sunday, the realm across the lake is teeming with food stalls, handicrafts and artistic performances. The legendary Dong Xuan market is situated only a 10 -minute walk from the hotel, timeless.
The Story About Hanoi, The Oldest 'Ascending Dragon' City From Viet Nam
Hoàn kiếm kiếm Lake not only the place for recreation is the Culture Center. Each corner incorporates history, from the majestic turtle tower to the long-lasting red bridge that connects the holy temples. For anyone who visits Hanoi, Hoàn Kiếm Lake is a reminder that there’s at all times room for beauty, peace and timeless stories under the hustle and bustle of the capital






