Ho Hoan Kiem, the Sword lake

If you are planning to visit Hanoi for a few days, it is very likely that you will reside somewhere near Hoan Kiem Lake. Like a large oval mirror in the heart of the city, Hoan Kiem lake or Sword lake is one of the traditional symbols of Hanoi. In fact, the more you spend time learning about the lake, the more special it becomes. 

Overview 

In the peaceful water flow relexes the imperial soul of the anciant Hanoi  

With the perimeter of 12 ha in area, or 15 in area if the two-kilometer-long park around it is included, Hoan Kiem lake has undergone many changes over the years, it historical significance, however, remains unforgettable. It comes without saying that every Vietnamese have their childhood closed to the story of the legend of the golden tortoise rising from the lake and reclaiming the magic sword from King Le Loi. Now and then, one of these tortoise rose up right before two important international meetings in Hanoi, the Francophone Summit and ASEAN Summit. 

Surrounding areas 

The Huc Bridge -  “The bridge where light is absorbed”.

The lake is protected by the ancient surrounding areas, which have become one of the most famous attractions in Hanoi, known as Ngoc Son temple connecting with Ink Stone monument and writing brush tower by the master piece of The Huc Bridge. Legend has it that Ngoc Son temple was built by Nguyen Van Sieu, a famous historical scholar in the past. In front of the temple, which is located at the north-est corner of the lake, are the Ink Stone Monument and Writing Brush tower. The temple itself is linked with the shore by the arched The Huc bridge which has 15 pairs of supports. Inside the temple lays a large preserved tortoise of the kind still thought to live in the lake. “Go Rua” or “Thap Rua” (Torsoie Mound or Tortoise Tower) is located to the south of the lake. On the mound is a tower which has four square faces built in the late 19th century. In Le Thai To street by the lake there is the statue of King Le. 

Ngoc Son Temple -  From which you can admire the spacious and beautiful views of Hoan Kiem lake

Peaceful side walk covering with green lush, plants and flowers around the lake has created a poetic refuge in the center of busy city. Over 755 trees of approximately 38 species, surround the lake as they have for centuries. The Loc Vung trees in Dinh Tien Hoang street has nine rough roots stalks that twine around one another. In spring and autumn, the tree’s purple flowers blossom beautifully. Beds of carnations chrysanthemums, cockscombs and gladiolus add splashed of colour. People used to call the lake Lục Thủy (Green water) because the water was green all year round, but recent steps to keep water clean have reduced the green colour.

   >> May may be interested with The myth of Sword Lake 

 Lushing capony of Loc Vung trees have long been the symbol of Hoan Kiem Lake 

Surrounded by an exciting atmosphere at any time of the day, sword lake is a favourite spot of both foreign and domestic tourists. On holidays or as Tet the paths around the lake are full of visitors, with many vendors on hand to sell them snacks and souvenirs. The city authority has gone a long way to spruce up the gardens and path around the lake.  And while visitors are still sometimes bothered by children selling postcards or young women offering to change dollar into VND, the lake remains a jewel in the heart of the capital.