Hoan Kiem Lake—also known as Sword Lake—is a tranquil freshwater lake in the heart of Hanoi, covering about 12 hectares. Once called Luc Thuy Lake for its year-round emerald waters, it’s now one of the most iconic symbols of the capital.
Thanks to its central location, surrounded by historic streets such as Hang Dao, Hang Ngang, and Luong Van Can, and close to French-colonial boulevards like Trang Tien and Dinh Tien Hoang, the lake is perfect for walking, sightseeing, and immersing oneself in the charm of Hanoi’s Old Quarter. It’s a must-visit destination for both locals and international travelers.
- Location: Hang Trong Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam
- Entrance Fee: Free for the lake area; 30,000 VND for visiting Ngoc Son Temple on the lake’s small island.
1. The Legend of the Returned Sword
According to legend, in the early 1400s, King Le Loi discovered a mysterious golden sword inscribed with the words “Thuan Thien“—”Obeying Heaven.” This divine weapon enabled him to lead the resistance against the Ming invaders and restore national peace.
In 1428, while boating on the lake, the king saw a giant golden turtle emerge. The sword glowed and moved toward the turtle, who returned it to the divine realm. Since then, the lake has been known as Hoan Kiem, or “Lake of the Returned Sword”—a lasting tribute to peace, patriotism, and Vietnamese folklore.
2. Best Time to Visit
Hoan Kiem Lake is charming year-round, but it’s especially beautiful from late September to November. Autumn brings cool air, golden leaves drifting across ancient streets, and the gentle fragrance of blooming milk flowers. It’s the perfect time to enjoy a lakeside stroll and sample Hanoi’s street food just steps away.
3. Famous Tourist Attractions Around Hoan Kiem Lake
A stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake isn’t just a walk through Hanoi’s heart—it’s a journey through its soul. Here are the iconic landmarks that bring this area to life.
3.1. Turtle Tower – The Symbol of Hanoi
Rising from the small Turtle Island in the lake’s center, Turtle Tower (built between 1884–1886) is a three-tiered stone structure that narrows as it rises. With open arches and quiet dignity, it has become a symbol of Hanoi, echoing stories of the city’s rich past.
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3.2. Pen Tower and Ink Box – Tribute to Knowledge
At the lake’s northeast corner stand the Pen Tower (Tháp Bút) and Ink Box (Đài Nghiên), built in 1865 to honor the scholarly spirit of Hanoi. The Ink Box rests on three toads, engraved with a 64-character Chinese poem by poet Nguyen Van Sieu. Above it, the brush-shaped Pen Tower rises skyward—symbolically writing wisdom across the heavens.
3.3. The Huc Bridge – Where Light Touches
Painted a striking red and gently curved like a shrimp, The Huc Bridge (“Morning Sunlight Bridge”) leads visitors to Ngoc Son Temple. Built in 1865, the bridge represents a connection between heaven and earth, as well as a union of knowledge and spirituality.
3.4. Ngoc Son Temple – The Sacred Heart of the Lake
Perched on Jade Island, Ngoc Son Temple was built in the 19th century. Its name means “Temple of the Jade Mountain,” and it honors revered figures such as General Tran Hung Dao and Van Xuong De Quan, alongside Amitabha Buddha and other spiritual icons. This blend of Taoism, Buddhism, and Confucianism reflects Vietnam’s profound respect for unity and harmony in its beliefs.
3.5. Hanoi Old Quarter
Wander the maze-like streets around Hoan Kiem Lake—Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Hang Trong, and Hang Duong—and you’ll step into the soul of old Hanoi. Here, the charm of narrow alleys, time-worn houses from the 1970s and 1980s, and a vibrant street life full of color and character bring ancient Hanoi to life. Don’t miss the chance to savor traditional dishes and immerse yourself in the city’s vibrant cultural scene.
3.6. Hanoi Opera House
Standing gracefully at the edge of Trang Tien Street, the Hanoi Opera House is a French colonial gem modeled after European theaters of the early 1900s. Located near Hoan Kiem Lake, it dominates Cach Mang Thang Tam Square with timeless elegance—a symbol of art and history in the heart of the capital.
3.7. Thang Long Water Puppet Theater
Experience the unique charm of Northern Vietnam’s water puppetry at the Thang Long Theater. With artists standing waist-deep in water, guiding lacquered wooden puppets across the shimmering stage, the show is a vivid expression of Vietnamese folklore. It’s a magical experience that brings local traditions to life—and a must for any Hanoi itinerary.
