Hoan Kiem Lake

Vietnam

ADDRESS Located in Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam, Hanoi, Hoan-Kiem-District Directions

At a glance

Ideal for
All Ages
Type
Trips & Tours
Features
NatureRelaxationThe Local Experience

The name Hoan Kiem, which means Restored Sword, came from a story about a giant golden turtle. The turtle is said to have grabbed the sword and disappeared with it. The turtle then restored the sword to its divine owner. The ancient tale says that King Le Loi received this magical sword with two words on it, 'Thuan Thien' meaning 'in harmony with the universe,' as a gift from heaven. This sword is said to have helped him win the China war. 

If you wake up early enough, between 5 and 6 A.M., the area is very lively with scenes of people practicing Tai Chi and doing all kinds of exercises along the lake. There is a little temple called Ngoc Son that is located on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake. Hoan Kiem Lake, with this temple, the Turtle Tower and The Huc Red Bridge, is an iconic spot of pride in Hanoi. 

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