Hoan Kiem Lake, the emerald heart of Hanoi, holds centuries of history within its shores. As a local establishment just minutes away from this iconic landmark, we’re excited to share this carefully curated walking tour that reveals the cultural treasures surrounding the lake.
The Legend Begins: Hoan Kiem Lake
The “Lake of the Returned Sword” carries a legendary tale of Emperor Le Loi and a magical sword that helped secure Vietnam’s independence. Today, this peaceful lake serves as Hanoi’s central point, where history and modern life seamlessly blend. The best time to start your tour is early morning (6-8 AM) or late afternoon (4-6 PM) when the weather is most pleasant.
Turtle Tower: A Symbol of Hanoi
Standing proudly on a small island, Turtle Tower (Thap Rua) represents the heart of the golden turtle legend. While you can’t visit the tower itself, the northern shore of the lake offers perfect photo opportunities, especially during sunrise when the morning light creates a mystical atmosphere around the structure.
Ngoc Son Temple: Sacred Beauty
Connected to the shore by the striking red The Huc Bridge (“Bridge of the Rising Sun”), Ngoc Son Temple showcases classical Vietnamese architecture at its finest. When visiting:
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Remove shoes before entering
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Dress respectfully (covered shoulders and knees)
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Visit early morning to avoid crowds
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Small entrance fee applies
Lake Circuit: A Tale of Two Sides
The East Side reveals Hanoi’s French colonial influence, with the magnificent Opera House visible in the distance. The architecture here tells the story of Vietnam’s complex history, while street artists and performers add contemporary vibrancy.
The West Side offers a more traditional Vietnamese atmosphere, with ancient trees providing shade for locals practicing tai chi or playing chess. During weekends, the surrounding streets transform into a vibrant walking zone filled with activities and performances.
Historic Buildings: Architectural Heritage
The lake’s periphery showcases various architectural styles:
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The grand Hanoi Post Office with its French colonial design
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The State Bank Building’s imposing facade
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Heritage houses combining Vietnamese and French elements
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Preserved shophouses telling stories of old Hanoi
Modern Cultural Spaces
Today’s Hoan Kiem district perfectly balances tradition with contemporary culture:
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Book Street: A haven for literature lovers
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Art galleries showcasing local talent
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Cafes offering traditional Vietnamese coffee
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Weekend performances mixing old and new artistic expressions
After exploring, satisfy your appetite at one of the area’s authentic eateries. For a true taste of Hanoi, visit Gánh Hà Nội Restaurant at 115 Hang Buom Street, just a short walk from the lake. We offer traditional Vietnamese dishes including Pho, fresh spring rolls, and various vegetarian options in a comfortable setting.
Essential Tips for Your Walk
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Start at Ngoc Son Temple and move clockwise around the lake
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Early morning or late afternoon offers the best lighting for photos
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Carry water and wear comfortable walking shoes
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Allow 2-3 hours for a complete circuit with stops
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Visit during weekends to experience the walking street atmosphere
After your cultural exploration, we invite you to rest and recharge at Gánh Hà Nội Restaurant, one of the best Vietnamese restaurants in Hoan Kiem.
Visit us at:
Gánh Hà Nội Vietnamese Restaurant & Vegetarian Food
Address: 115 Hàng Buồm Street, Hoàn Kiếm District, Hà Nội
Phone: 0904.528.191
Website: https://ganhhanoirestaurant.com/
Tripadvisor: https://www.tripadvisor.com.vn/Restaurant_Review-g27501570-d26802766-Reviews-Ganh_Ha_N_i_Restaurant-Hoan_Kiem_Hanoi.html
Opening hours:
10.00 AM – 10.30 PM on Monday – Thursday
10.00 AM – 11 PM on Friday – Sunday
