Are you planning to visit Hanoi, remember to visit Hoan Kiem lake. With its unique beauty and great historical significance, the lake is always the top place to visit in Hanoi, attracting a lot of travelers each year. 

Hoan Kiem Lake in Vietnam

Hoa Kiem lake is called " Ho Guom", is a natural freshwater lake in Hanoi. This is the best place to visit in the capital both local and foreign. 

In the past, Hoan Kiem Lake was also known as Luc Thuy lake due to its ground water around the year. The lake was changed name in the 15th century with the legend of Le Loi ( King Le Thai To), giving the sword back to the turtle deity. 

The story said, on one occasion, Le Loi King visited his friend, he saw a shining bar that the friend had used to go fishing. 

After, the King asked for the bar from his friend and had two words on it "Thuan Thien". 

The King used it in the battle against the occupying Minh and gained the victory. In the journey on the lake, the large golden turtle rose above water and asked him to give it to sword. 

Hoan Kiem Lake in Vietnam

So, Le Loi King changed the former name Luc Thuy into Hoan Kiem Lake. Currently, Hoan Kiem Lake attracts a large number of people to visit annually. 

Depending on the sky, the lake water has different colors such as green, dark, and light. 

Besides, there are many turtles to live. Sometimes, tourists have an opportunity to see these giant tortoises rising out of the water. 

Girl posing for photo with Hoan Kiem Lake

The charming of Hoan Kiem Lake

The scenery around Hoan Kiem lake was considerably changed when Friend colonialists invaded Vietnam in 1884. Today, the Friend architecture still remains. 

According to people who live close to Hoan Kiem lake, there is an old turtle in the lake which lived for many hundred years. And No one knows the legendary turtle or normal old turtle. So, Hoan Kiem Lake brings a certain attraction to tourists. 

Besides, Hoan Kiem lake is about 100m far away from Hanoi walking street. So, tourists can walk around, shop, and join some activities along the street. 

Some the famous places next to Hoan Kiem lake

Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son was built in the 19th century and is one of the best things to visit in Hanoi. 

This temple was originally dedicated to Guan Yu to suppress misfortune. Currently, Ngoc Son temple is a pagoda that worships Buddha.  

Ngoc Son Temple

The architecture style of the temple features the northern region, Vietnam. When you step in the temple, you will see 2 large statues such as Tran Deity statue and Van Xuong Deity statue. 

Besides, you admire the glass cabinet with a model of Hoan Kiem Lake's turtle. 

Turtle Tower

Turtle Tower is about 350m2, located in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. The tower was built in the French colonial period,  expressing the French and Vietnamese architecture. 

Turtle Tower

There are 3 storeys and the upper story is smaller than the lower one. The Turtle Tower existed for hundreds of years. Due to its strange beauty to the tower, it is unique to visitors. 

The Huc Bridge

The Huc bridge connects the Ngoc Son Temple and Hoan Kiem lake bank, standing out by its bright red color. The bridge is one of the best places to explore in Hanoi. 

To come to Ngoc Son temple, you need to go through The Huc Bridge. You will see the elegant beauty and uniqueness of the bridge. 

The Huc Bridge

The bridge is modeled after the architecture of the Red River Delta's home. The Huc Bridge witnessed many memorable historical events. 

Besides, the bridge was restored in 1897 and 1952. 

King Le Temple

King Le Thai To Temple is located on N0.16, Le Thai To Street, Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. The architectural complex of King Le was built in 1984 to annul the King for the large merit with the country. 

The King complex has 3 main parts like entrance, the communal house & the monument. 

The gate is designed in the style of three doors with bricks. The complex has the 1,2m high bronze statue, a hand holding a sword to the lake. 

Hoan Kiem lake is the well-known symbol of Hanoi city. The lake gives you amazing experiences, exploring Vietnamese culture and history. When you are traveling in Hanoi, you do not miss Hoan Kiem Lake in your schedule.