Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake is a central freshwater lake in Hang Trong Ward, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi, Vietnam. Known as the Lake of the Returned Sword, it is a historic and cultural symbol of the capital. The lake features Turtle Tower on a small island, Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island connected by the red Huc Bridge, tree-lined walking paths, and is surrounded by the Old Quarter and French Quarter.

Visitors can expect a small urban lake with a paved 1.7 km perimeter walking path lined with trees and benches. In the lake, Turtle Tower sits on a small islet, while Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island is reached via the iconic red Huc Bridge. The area is surrounded by streets, cafes and historic buildings, with a lively pedestrian zone on weekends, street performers, locals exercising, and views ideal for sightseeing and photography.

Associated with the 15th-century legend of Emperor Le Loi, who is said to have returned a magical sword to the Golden Turtle God in the lake after defeating the Ming, giving the name Hoan Kiem (Lake of the Returned Sword). Turtle Tower was erected in 1886 on Turtle Islet, and Ngoc Son Temple was developed in the 19th century on Jade Island, reflecting the lake's long historical importance in Hanoi.

Hoan Kiem Lake is considered the spiritual and cultural heart of Hanoi and a symbol of the capital. It is a gathering place for festivals, cultural events and daily community activities such as tai chi and exercise, and Ngoc Son Temple is dedicated to Confucian and Taoist scholars and national hero Tran Hung Dao, reflecting Vietnamese cultural values.