Located in the historic center of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Ho Guom or Sword Lake, is one of the most iconic landmarks in Vietnam’s capital.
More than just a beautiful lake surrounded by trees and historic streets, Hoan Kiem Lake is closely connected with Vietnamese history, culture, legends, and the everyday life of Hanoi. For many locals, it is often considered the heart of the capital.
Today, visitors can enjoy a peaceful walk around the lake, explore historic monuments, visit Ngoc Son Temple, photograph the famous red The Huc Bridge, and continue into the lively Old Quarter.
The Legend of the Returned Sword
The most famous story associated with Hoan Kiem Lake dates back to the 15th century and the reign of King Le Loi, later known as Emperor Le Thai To.
According to Vietnamese legend, during the resistance against the Ming forces, Le Loi received a magical sword that helped him lead his army to victory.
After the war ended, Le Loi was traveling by boat on the lake, which was then known as Luc Thuy Lake โ the Lake of Green Water. Suddenly, a giant golden turtle emerged from the water and asked the king to return the sacred sword.
As Le Loi held out the sword, it left his hand and was taken by the turtle beneath the water.
The king understood that the sacred sword had been lent to him to defeat the enemy and that its mission was now complete. He therefore renamed the lake Hoan Kiem, meaning โLake of the Returned Sword.โ
This legend remains one of the best-known stories in Vietnamese history and is an important part of Hanoi’s cultural identity.
Turtle Tower โ Thap Rua
Standing on a small island near the southern part of the lake is Turtle Tower (Thap Rua), one of Hanoi’s most recognizable symbols.
The small tower is closely associated with the legend of the sacred turtle that returned King Le Loi’s sword. Its location in the middle of the lake creates one of the most photographed views in central Hanoi.
The tower itself is not normally open for visitors, but it can be admired and photographed from the lakeside promenade.
Together with the green water, surrounding trees and historic architecture, Turtle Tower gives Hoan Kiem Lake its distinctive appearance.
Ngoc Son Temple โ A Spiritual and Cultural Landmark
On a small island in the northern part of Hoan Kiem Lake stands Ngoc Son Temple, one of the most important historical and cultural monuments in the area.
The island was known by different names throughout history. During the Ly Dynasty it was associated with the name Ngoc Tuong, while during the Tran Dynasty it became known as Ngoc Son. The site developed through several historical periods before becoming the temple complex visitors see today.
Ngoc Son Temple is associated with several important historical and cultural figures, most notably General Tran Hung Dao, who led Vietnamese forces against the Mongol invasions in the 13th century.
The temple complex also reflects the influence of Vietnamese Confucian and Taoist traditions and contains several important architectural features.
The Huc Bridge โ The Iconic Red Bridge of Hanoi
One of the most recognizable sights at Hoan Kiem Lake is the bright red The Huc Bridge, which connects the lakeside to Ngoc Son Temple.
The name โThe Hucโ is commonly interpreted as โwhere the light of dawn is retained.โ
The bridge was built in the 19th century and has undergone restoration over the years. Its traditional curved design, vivid red color and reflection on the green water create a particularly beautiful scene.
Crossing The Huc Bridge is part of the classic Hoan Kiem Lake experience. From the bridge, visitors can enjoy views of the lake, Turtle Tower and the surrounding historic landscape
Thap But and Dai Nghien
Before reaching Ngoc Son Temple, visitors can also see two fascinating symbols of Hanoi’s traditional scholarly culture: Thap But (Pen Tower) and Dai Nghien (Inkstone).
Thap But is a stone tower shaped like a writing brush, with the inscription โTa Thanh Thienโ, commonly understood as an expression referring to writing against the blue sky.
Nearby is Dai Nghien, a large stone inkstone supported by stone frogs. Together, these structures represent the importance of education, literature and scholarship in Vietnamese cultur
More Than a Historical Landmark
Hoan Kiem Lake is not simply a place for sightseeing. It is also an important part of everyday life in Hanoi.
Early in the morning, locals gather around the lake to exercise, walk and practice activities such as tai chi. During the evening, the lakeside becomes a popular place for families, young people and visitors to relax.
The surrounding area also connects directly with some of Hanoi’s most famous attractions, including:
- Hanoi Old Quarter
- St. Joseph’s Cathedral
- Dong Xuan Market
- Trang Tien Street
- Hanoi Opera House
- Ly Thai To Garden
- Ngoc Son Temple
- The Huc Bridge
On weekends, parts of the area around Hoan Kiem Lake become a pedestrian zone, creating a lively atmosphere with street performances, traditional activities and local food
A Place Where History Meets Modern Hanoi
One of the most interesting things about Hoan Kiem Lake is the contrast between old and new Hanoi.
A few steps from the quiet waters of the lake, visitors can enter the narrow streets of the Old Quarter, where traditional shops, street food restaurants and historic houses create a completely different atmosphere.
This combination makes Hoan Kiem Lake an ideal starting point for exploring Hanoi.
The lake and Ngoc Son Temple complex was officially recognized as a Special National Monument in 2013, highlighting its importance to Vietnam’s cultural and historical heritage.
Best Things to Do Around Hoan Kiem Lake
If you are visiting Hanoi, we recommend taking time to experience the lake rather than simply stopping for a quick photograph.
1. Walk around the lake
A leisurely walk allows you to see Turtle Tower, Ngoc Son Temple and the surrounding historic architecture.
2. Visit Ngoc Son Temple
Cross The Huc Bridge and explore one of Hanoi’s most important historic temples.
3. Photograph The Huc Bridge
The red bridge is particularly beautiful in the early morning and evening.
4. Explore the Old Quarter
From the lake, continue into Hanoi’s famous Old Quarter to discover local food, traditional shops and historic streets.
5. Experience Hanoi at night
The area around the lake becomes lively in the evening, especially during weekends.
6. Enjoy local food
Hoan Kiem Lake is within walking distance of many famous Hanoi specialties, including pho, bun cha, banh mi and traditional Vietnamese coffee.
Why Hoan Kiem Lake Should Be on Your Hanoi Itinerary
Hoan Kiem Lake represents much more than a scenic spot in the center of Hanoi.
It tells a story about Vietnamese history, the legend of King Le Loi, traditional architecture, education, spirituality and the daily life of Hanoi’s people.
For first-time visitors, it is one of the best places to begin discovering the capital. A walk around the lake can easily be combined with Ngoc Son Temple, the Old Quarter, Hanoi’s historic streets and local food experiences.
If you are traveling with VH Travel, our local team can also arrange a private Hanoi city tour combining Hoan Kiem Lake, Ngoc Son Temple, the Old Quarter and other important historical attractions according to your preferred pace.
Hoan Kiem Lake is not simply a place to visit โ it is a place to experience the spirit of Hanoi.
