Hoan Kiem Lake is considered to be a symbol of Hanoi, the capital of Vietnam. This lake is located in the center of Hanoi, not only geographically but also symbolically. Before the famous historical legend of King Le Thai To here, Hoan Kiem Lake used to be called Luc Thuy Lake (or Green Water Lake) because the water was green all the year around. In the 15th century, it was named after Hoan Kiem Lake (or Lake of the Restored Sword) by King Le Thai To.
In the Le Dynasty, King Le Thai To was given a precious fairy sword to fight against the Minh aggressors by the Golden Turtle God. After 10 years of continuous struggling, the King finally defeated the Chinese and reclaimed the national independence. After that, on a nice day, while boating on Luc Thuy Lake, a large turtle came towards him. It immediately grabbed the sword with its mouth and submerged. The King realized that the God must have lent him the sword to drive back the enemy, but then that his nation was free, the sword must be returned. Visit Hanoi with Tours to Vietnam
Especially, the water color of Hoan Kiem Lake is not commonly found in other lakes in Hanoi: greenish with dark or light shade depending on the reflection of the sky and the weather. The lake has a lot of tortoise and if you are lucky, you will see these giant animals. Besides Hoan Kiem Lake is considered a holy place in Hanoi because tortoise is one of the four supernatural creatures (along with dragon, unicorn, phoenix). In the middle of the lake is a small island with a beautiful complex, Turtle Tower. You cannot get to there – there are no bridges or boats to the island. Read more: Indochina tours
However you can get to the other bigger island on the lake, you will cross a small red wooden bridge (The Huc Bridge) that leads to the entrance of an 18th century Buddhist temple.
Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most interesting destinations when you have a lucky chance to visit Ha Noi – the peaceful capital of Vietnam.
The Indochina Voyages team.
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