The Legendary Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Hanoi, the capital city of Vietnam. Located in the heart of the city, the lake is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to relax, take a walk, and enjoy the beauty of nature.
But Hoan Kiem Lake is more than just a pretty place – it’s also steeped in culture and history. The lake is named after a legend that tells the story of a magical sword that was returned to the gods, and it has played a significant role in Vietnamese culture and history for centuries.
History of Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake, which means “Lake of the Restored Sword,” gets its name from a legend that dates back to the 15th century. According to the legend, the Vietnamese leader Le Loi was given a magical sword by the gods to help him defeat the Chinese and reunite Vietnam. After his victory, Le Loi was boating on the lake when a giant golden turtle emerged from the water and snatched the sword from him, returning it to the gods. The lake was then named Hoan Kiem, or “Lake of the Returned Sword,” in honor of this legend.
The lake has long been a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, and it has played a significant role in Vietnamese culture and history. In the past, the lake was used for defense against foreign invaders, and it was also a source of food and water for the city. Today, the lake is a popular spot for recreational activities such as boating, fishing, and walking, and it is also home to several landmarks and attractions, including the Ngoc Son Temple and the Huc Bridge.
The beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is a beautiful and peaceful spot in the heart of Hanoi. The lake is surrounded by trees and greenery, and it is a popular spot for locals and tourists to take a leisurely walk or enjoy a picnic. The lake is also home to several landmarks and attractions, including the Ngoc Son Temple, which is located on a small island in the middle of the lake. The temple is dedicated to the 13th-century scholar Tran Hung Dao and is a popular spot for visitors to learn about Vietnamese history and culture.
Another popular spot on the lake is the Huc Bridge, which means “Place of Morning Sun.” The bridge is a beautiful red-and-white structure that spans the lake and provides stunning views of the surrounding area. The bridge is a popular spot for visitors to take photos and enjoy the scenery.
In addition to its landmarks and attractions, Hoan Kiem Lake is also a popular spot for recreational activities such as boating and fishing. You can rent a boat or hire a local guide to take you out on the lake, or you can try your luck at catching one of the many fish that live in the lake.
How to visit Hoan Kiem Lake
Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the heart of Hanoi, and it’s easy to get to from any location in the city. The lake is a short walk from many popular tourist destinations, and it’s easy to find with the help of a map or GPS.
When visiting the lake, it’s important to dress modestly and respect local customs. The lake is a popular spot for locals to relax and enjoy the outdoors, so be mindful of your surroundings and try to blend in with the crowd.
There is no admission fee to visit Hoan Kiem Lake, but you may want to bring some money with you if you’d like to rent a boat or hire a guide. You should also be prepared to pay an admission fee if you plan to visit any of the landmarks or attractions on or near the lake, such as the Ngoc Son Temple or the Huc Bridge.
A place you should not miss while traveling in Hanoi
Hoan Kiem Lake is a must-see destination for anyone visiting Hanoi. Its beauty, cultural significance, and recreational activities make it a perfect spot for anyone looking to relax and take in the sights and sounds of the city. Whether you’re interested in Vietnamese history and culture, or just looking for a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Hoan Kiem Lake is a perfect choice. So if you’re in Hanoi, be sure to add it to your list of places to visit!
