Hoan Kiem Lake | Visit Hanoi’s tourist spot where the legendary turtle rests.

Hoan Kiem Lake, a popular tourist destination in Vietnam, is located in the Hoan Kiem District of Hanoi, the capital city. This scenic spot offers a glimpse into Vietnam’s history and is a must-visit location in Hanoi. On weekends, the area becomes a pedestrian-only zone, with rows of food stalls and people enjoying dancing and singing at various locations. The lively atmosphere continues late into the night.

In this article, we will introduce convenient information for tourists visiting Hoan Kiem Lake, including key attractions, how to get there, and recommended hotels.

What is Hoan Kiem Lake?

Hoan Kiem Lake, located south of Hanoi's Old Quarter, has a circumference of about 1.8 km. It features a distinctive elongated shape stretching from north to south and is home to two notable islands: one with the "Ngoc Son Temple," accessible via a bridge, and another with the "Turtle Tower."

The lake is a beloved relaxation spot for locals, where visitors can enjoy a leisurely walk around it in about an hour, go jogging, or simply rest on a bench and take in the serene atmosphere.

The Legend of Hoan Kiem Lake

Have you heard of the "Legend of Hoan Kiem Lake"?

The first emperor of the Vietnamese Le Dynasty, Le Loi, obtained a magical sword from the lake and used it to defeat the Ming Dynasty. Later, a giant turtle, sent by the Dragon King, appeared over the lake and gave Le Loi a message: "Since peace has been restored, the sword should be returned to its rightful owner, the Dragon King." Le Loi returned the sword on a small island in the lake, which led to the lake being named "Hoan Kiem Lake" (Hoan = Return, Kiem = Sword). A Turtle Tower was built on the island to commemorate this event. Inside Ngoc Son Temple, on another island, a large turtle is enshrined.

Hoan Kiem Lake's "Ngoc Son Temple"

A red bridge called the "Huc Bridge" (Sunrise Bridge) spans the northern part of the lake.

Crossing this bridge, you reach Ngoc Son Temple on the small island, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the lake.

The reflection of the bridge in the water is often praised for its beauty, but what attracts the most attention is the massive preserved turtle inside the temple.

Captured from the lake in 1968, the giant turtle, measuring about 2 meters in length and weighing around 250 kg, is an impressive sight. This turtle is closely connected to the legend surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake and has been passed down through generations.

It is still believed that giant turtles live in the lake. Some say that if you're lucky, you may catch a glimpse of the turtle’s face emerging from the water, which is considered a sign of good fortune.

Hoan Kiem Lake's Giant Turtle Specimen

To the south of the lake lies a small island, believed to be the spot where the emperor returned the magical sword. On this island, a small tower called the "Turtle Tower" stands. It is a landmark of Hoan Kiem Lake and can be seen from almost any vantage point around the lake. At night, the tower is beautifully lit, creating a mystical scene.

Water Puppet Theater

Located to the north of Hoan Kiem Lake, the Water Puppet Theater offers a unique performance on water, as the puppets move in sync with live music and singing. Even if you don’t understand the language, the emotions and stories conveyed through the puppets are easy to understand.

The performances are based on local legends and Vietnamese folktales, making this a must-see spot when visiting Hanoi.

Recommended Times to Visit Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is full of attractions, but what makes it even more special is how it changes depending on the time of day.
During daylight, the lake is lively with locals exercising and tourists enjoying the scenery.

As it gets darker, people gathering to enjoy food, or couples on dates, start to fill the area. The colorful city lights reflected on the surface of the lake create a romantic and picturesque atmosphere, perfect for a peaceful evening. If you’ve visited in the daytime, try coming back at night for a completely different experience.

During the Lunar New Year and National Day, fireworks are also launched here.

How to Access Hoan Kiem Lake

You can access to Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi first. There are two main ways to get from the airport to Hoan Kiem Lake: taxi or bus.

■Taxi

Taxis are readily available at the airport. There is no need to take the first taxi in line, but it’s best to choose a reputable taxi company like "Airport Taxi," "Mai Linh Taxi," or "Noi Bai Taxi" for a more secure ride.
The ride takes about 40 to 50 minutes, and the fare is around 300,000 to 400,000 VND. Since English is not commonly spoken, it's a good idea to have your destination written down on your phone or on paper.

■Bus 86

Bus 86 is a convenient and affordable option for traveling between Hanoi city center and the airport. The bus stop is located behind the taxi stand. The fare is 35,000 VND, and the bus operates every 25 minutes without requiring the bus to fill up first. The bus stops closest to Hoan Kiem Lake are near the "Melia Hotel" and "Opera House" stations.

◎Recommended Hotels Around Hoan Kiem Lake

■La Sinfonia del Rey Hotel & Spa

Located on the northeast side of Hoan Kiem Lake, near Ngoc Son Temple, La Sinfonia del Rey Hotel & Spa offers a luxurious yet affordable stay. After a day of sightseeing, you can unwind with a treatment at the spa. Enjoy cocktails on the terrace while taking in the night views, or indulge in a popular breakfast buffet that features a variety of delicious desserts. It’s a great option for those wanting to stay close to the lake while enjoying a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere.

■Hanoi La Selva Central Hotel

Located between Hoan Kiem Lake and the Old Quarter, Hanoi La Selva Central Hotel is a convenient hotel for sightseeing, as it is close to the Water Puppet Theater and Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square. Offering affordable rates, the hotel also includes breakfast, making it a great option for those looking for comfort and convenience during their stay in Hanoi.

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Hoan Kiem Lake | Visit Hanoi’s tourist spot where the legendary turtle rests.