Nestled in the heart of Vietnam’s capital, Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi is renowned for its serene beauty and rich cultural and historical significance.

Descriptive words like picturesque, magnificent, dreamy, and mysterious are often used to capture the lake’s charm. Its unique allure draws countless visitors every year, both from Vietnam and around the world. As a result, Hoan Kiem Lake consistently ranks as one of the top destinations for anyone exploring Hanoi.

If you’re planning a visit to Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi, Vietnam, read on to learn more about its history and discover what to do there.

Location: Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi
Area: 12 ha
Shore length: 1.75km
Length: 700m
Map to the Hoan Kiem Lake:https://maps.app.goo.gl/hdmbyQ359zEf8dKf6

History and Legend

Hoan Kiem Lake, also called “Sword Lake,” is a freshwater lake located in the heart of Hanoi. The legend behind the lake’s name is widely known among the Vietnamese people. From a young age, they learn the story in school, which features revered heroes, a giant turtle, and a magical sword.

According to legend, long ago, Le Loi was the King of Vietnam. One day, while visiting a friend, he came across a glowing bar that his friend had caught while fishing. The King requested the bar, took it home, and transformed it into a sword inscribed with the words “Thuan Thien” (meaning “Harmonious with Heaven”).

Believing it to be a divine weapon, he used the sword in battle against the invading Ming army and emerged victorious. Later, while boating on a lake, his peaceful journey was interrupted when a giant golden turtle emerged from the water, asking him to return the sword to the Dragon King. Without hesitation, the King returned the sword to the turtle. To honor this moment, he renamed the lake from its original name, Luc Thuy (meaning “Green Water”), to Hoan Kiem Lake (meaning “Lake of the Returned Sword”).

Hoan Kiem Lake is not only historically significant but also unique in its features. The color of the water changes depending on the sky’s reflection, ranging from green to shades of dark or light. The lake is also home to giant tortoises, and if you’re lucky, you might catch a glimpse of these magnificent creatures basking in the sun.

What to See around Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is bustling with numerous activities throughout the day, making it lively and crowded, especially on weekends. Let’s dive into the local vibe and explore the must-see spots and best places to visit around the lake!

1. Ngoc Son Temple

Situated at the heart of the lake, the Ngoc Son Temple is visible from all sides of the water. Its name, “Temple of the Jade Mountain,” reflects its location.

Constructed in the 18th century on Jade Island, the temple honors Tran Hung Dao, a legendary war hero who led the defense against 300,000 Mongolian invaders in the 13th century. Inside the temple, visitors can see altars, historical artifacts, and a preserved 250 kg specimen of a giant turtle.

2. The Huc Bridge

The bridge is a stunning structure designed to link Ngoc Son Temple with the lake’s shore. Built from fine wood, it stands out with its vibrant red color.

The Huc Bridge is a renowned landmark in Hanoi, celebrated as a symbol of Buddhist architecture and often referred to as “the bridge where light is absorbed.” Visitors can appreciate its graceful beauty and intricate design at any time of day.

3. Turtle Tower

Turtle Tower is an iconic landmark located in the heart of Hoan Kiem Lake. Standing for nearly 150 years, it once served as a resting spot for the King while fishing and has now become a symbol of pride for the people of Hanoi.

During the French colonial period, the revolutionary flag of Vietnam was flown from the tower’s top, serving as a constant reminder to the Vietnamese to rise up and resist the invaders. Although it doesn’t follow a distinct Vietnamese architectural style, Turtle Tower represents the patriotism and unity of the Vietnamese people.

4. The Historic St. Joseph’s Cathedral

On the west side of the lake, St. Joseph’s Cathedral stands as a historic landmark, having been constructed in 1886. Over a century later, it remains one of the largest churches in Hanoi, serving as a place of worship for many local Vietnamese Catholics.

The church is open to the public, but visitors are asked to dress modestly and refrain from taking photos inside. After your visit, if time allows, consider relaxing at a nearby café to enjoy the view of the cathedral.

What to Do around Hoan Kiem Lake?

Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Restored Sword Lake, serves as a central hub in the lives of both Hanoi locals and Vietnamese people. It offers a wide range of activities for residents and visitors alike.

At the lake, you might see people strolling with their dogs, chatting on benches, or exploring the nearby Walking Street. The possibilities are endless, with something always happening at Hoan Kiem Lake.

Here are a few suggestions for things to do around or near Hoan Kiem Lake:

1. Walking, Running and Biking

Walking (and even running) around Hoan Kiem Lake is a truly delightful experience. In the morning, seize the opportunity to watch the sunrise by arriving early at the lake. The peaceful atmosphere and the rhythm of life here will leave you in awe.

In the afternoon, return to enjoy the sunset, take in the scenic surroundings, listen to music, and savor some local delicacies.

Additionally, don’t miss the chance to explore Hanoi’s Walking Street, which operates every weekend from 7 p.m. on Friday to 12 p.m. on Sunday, covering the area around Hoan Kiem Lake and the historic Old Quarter. Locals and visitors alike, from children to seniors, often take part in outdoor activities, many wearing headphones and sunglasses.

For cycling enthusiasts, consider renting a bike to ride around the lake early in the morning and watch locals practicing Tai Chi.

2. Doing Exercise and Dancing

Hoan Kiem Lake is a perfect place to dance while taking in the refreshing air. You can also experience the vibrant atmosphere, accompanied by various types of music commonly used for exercise.

3. Watching Water Puppet Show in Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre

The one-hour show takes place at the Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre and features 17 short sketches using traditional puppets. The performances are accompanied by a Vietnamese orchestra, with musicians playing wooden bells, drums, bamboo flutes, cymbals, and horns to bring the stories to life.

The puppet show begins with a humorous prelude by Teu, a clown-like puppet with wild, spiky hair. As you watch the performance, you’ll be intrigued by the secret behind how the puppeteers manage to make the puppets move so smoothly, despite being hidden behind the screen. This theatre is a popular destination for both local Vietnamese and international visitors eager to experience this legendary form of traditional Vietnamese art.

How to Get to Hoan Kiem Lake

To get to Hoan Kiem Lake from Noi Bai Airport, you have several transportation options: shuttle bus, public bus, or taxi (Grab).

• Shuttle bus: It is recommended to take a shuttle bus and then continue by taxi or walk to your accommodation. The shuttle buses have more stops which can drop you off within walking distance.

• Public bus: This is another choice for those who want to travel like a local and also save money. You can easily find the public bus on the right side of the terminal exit. And it will take you around 1 hour to get nearer to Hoan Kiem Lake. First, you need to catch bus number 17 and then change to Express 86 in Long Bien station.

• Taxi at the airport: If you go with a group, the best choice would be flagging a taxi at the airport. The taxi could drive you directly to your accommodation in Hanoi. And without any stops, you can save time for your trip. You should use Grab for booking online

 Situated in the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake offers a vivid glimpse into Vietnamese culture and the daily life of the locals. It is an essential destination for anyone visiting Hanoi. Come and experience it on your next trip, and create unforgettable memories of Vietnam by securing your Vietnam visa at https://vietnamvisas1.com/. As a trusted and reliable visa service, we are here to help turn your dream vacation into reality from the very first step.