Get ready for an unforgettable journey with our Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake, where you’ll dive into the rich history, vibrant culture, and tranquil nature of Hanoi! This easy-paced adventure is ideal for tourists, families, and small groups looking to explore the city’s most iconic spots. As we walk around Hoan Kiem Lake, you’ll uncover the fascinating blend of history and nature, from the legend of the Returned Sword to the stunning Ngoc Son Temple and Turtle Tower. Join us for this unique Hanoi tour and immerse yourself in the heart of the city.

The Unique Experiences of the Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake

As we begin our Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake, prepare to be transported back in time through the fascinating legends and history that have shaped this beautiful landmark. This isn’t just any tour – it’s an immersive journey that connects you to the very heart of Vietnam’s rich cultural heritage!

Connection with History: The Legend of the Returned Sword

One of the most enchanting stories you will ever hear in our Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake is the legend of the “Returned Sword." This powerful story is deeply intertwined with the identity of Hoan Kiem Lake and reflects pride, resilience, and spirit within the Vietnamese nation. The legend has it that all this happened in the 15th century when a divine golden turtle gave King Le Loi a magical sword to defeat the invading Ming army. After gaining victory on one of his boating trips on the lake, the turtle reappeared to reclaim the sword back into the water’s depths. From that day on, the lake got the name “Hoan Kiem," or “Lake of the Returned Sword." Of course, that is not just a beautiful story, but this is a symbol of the consistent fight of Vietnam for its independence and justice.

Iconic Landmarks Around Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake

Our Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake is filled with iconic landmarks that capture the essence of Hanoi. Let’s explore them one by one!

Thap Rua (Turtle Tower)

The Turtle Tower stands proudly, surrounded by Hoan Kiem Lake, one of the most recognizable symbols of Hanoi. This tiny yet striking monument is the never-ending object of countless photographs and paintings, forming a perfect backdrop to the serene lake waters. As you admire it from a distance provided by these lakeside banks, let me share with you deeper meanings thrown upon this tower and its connection to the legendary golden turtle. The Turtle Tower symbolizes more than a building; it symbolizes the teeming history and resilience that is Hanoi in itself.

Ngoc Son Temple

Next, we will visit one of the most culturally and religiously important sites in Hanoi: Ngoc Son Temple. The temple is situated on a small island and is connected to the shore by the picturesque The Huc Bridge. On our trip to Hoan Kiem Lake, it is not to be missed. It enshrines several historical figures, including General Tran Hung Dao. Generally speaking, he is mentioned as one of the most respected heroes of Vietnamese history. The architectural beauty consists of minute details that are the representation of Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist traditions in harmony, which one might realize upon being at the place.

The Huc Bridge

The bright red the Huc Bridge this name can be translated as “Bridge of Morning Sunlight"-is one of the most photographed spots in Hanoi. To cross this beautiful arched bridge is to step into another world. Just walking over, you feel the tranquil energy of the lake below and the stunning views. The bridge is in dynamic red painting color to represent prosperity and happiness, simultaneously meaning a passageway to Ngoc Son Temple, which is a symbolic connection of the past and present in terms of Hanoi Tours.

But Tower and Dai Nghien

Finally, we will have a tour of two symbolic monuments of long-standing scholarly traditions of Vietnam: But Tower (Pen Tower), and Dai Nghien, or Ink Slab. Standing tall near Ngoc Son Temple, But Tower has since then stood for intellectualism, with its design modeled after a writing brush reaching in the air and the inscription “Write on the Blue Sky"-an homage to humankind’s quest for good things to last. Meanwhile, Dai Nghien, in its shape of inkstone with three supporting stone toads, complements But Tower in Vietnamese symbolization of dedication to education and scholarship.

Sample Itinerary for the Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake

8:00 – 8:15 AM: Meeting at Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square

We get the Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake underway nice and early! Let’s meet at the center of Hanoi’s Old Quarter, Dong Kinh Nghia Thuc Square. Lively City Square, is great for opening this tour, wherein your guide gives a quick background on just how significant the lake is in the lives and culture of the locals. We do a quick run-through of the day’s program so you know what you’re indulging yourself in on this day!

8:15 – 8:30 AM: Visit Thap Rua (Turtle Tower)

First, of course, is the iconic Turtle Tower, which proudly rises in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. Here, your guide will continue to give more detail about the legend of King Le Loi and the magical sword returned to the golden turtle, catching the symbolic importance of the tower in Hanoi’s history. You will enjoy taking great pictures of this incredible monument within shimmering waters and lush surroundings, setting the perfect backdrop.

8:30 – 9:00 AM: Explore Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple

Right after, we will cross the famous red-colored the Huc Bridge to reach the most sacred one among all those presented in Hanoi – Ngoc Son Temple. It is a temple dedicated to national heroes and major deities and is surrounded by tranquil waters. As we go through its holy corridors, the cultural value of this temple as one of the real treasures of the Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake will be presented by your guide in an explanation of different historical artifacts and architectural elements.

9:00 – 9:15 AM: Pass by But Tower and Dai Nghien

From Ngoc Son Temple, we will head toward two landmarks: But Tower (Pen Tower), or in Vietnamese, known as Dai Nghien, which is the Ink Slab. These are representations of an attachment to being well-read within Vietnam. As we stroll through these striking monuments, your tour guide will explain how they show a deep respect for education and intellectual pursuits in this country.

9:15 – 9:45 AM: Visit Hanoi Opera House and the Old Quarter

After a short walk from Hoan Kiem Lake, in front of us will appear the grand Hanoi Opera House – the typical example of French colonial architecture in Vietnam. Admire its beauty and elegance, while the guide shares stories about its historical meaning toward the cultural life of Hanoi. Continuing further from there, we arrive at the bustling streets of the Old Quarter. Here, you will find yourself right in the dynamic feel, finding traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and more.

But Tower and Dai Nghien

9:45 – 10:15 AM: Enjoy Local Delicacies

Now it’s time to indulge in some local flavors! We’ll take a quick break to sample some of Hanoi’s most famous treats:

• Stop 1: Kem Trang Tien: This iconic shop has been a must-visit, with an opportunity to taste the famous Hanoi ice cream, one of the most loved flavors in town for generations.
• Stop 2: Café Pho Co The enchanting Café Pho Co will be the real treat at the second stop. Try traditional Vietnamese egg coffee amidst panoramic views of Hoan Kiem Lake from above. Nothing raises this combination to a gourmet coffee and stunning visual level that can keep you in sync with the city!

10:15 – 10:45 AM: Watch a Water Puppet Show at Thang Long Theater

Of course, no culturally oriented Walking Tour around Hoan Kiem Lake could be complete without a visit to the famous Thang Long Water Puppet Theater. We will be attending a traditional water puppet show here a wonderfully stylized performance of the arts that traces back several centuries. The detailed puppets and the engageable storytelling will take you to a fantastical world and show the cultural heritage of Vietnam in a very non-boring way.

10:45 – 11:00 AM: Conclusion and Farewell

This Walking Tour around Hoan Kiem Lake will conclude with a speedy review of the day’s top moments. Now’s your chance for a last group photo, any farewells to new traveling friends, and any more questions. The tour will wind up close to the Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, leaving you well-positioned to either take further time to explore the Old Quarter yourself or continue your discovery through Hano’s lively streets.

Important Tips for Enjoying the Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake

Ready for an incredible day exploring Hanoi’s most iconic landmark? Before we kick off the Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake, let me share some handy tips to make sure you get the most out of your adventure. These tips will help you enjoy your walk around the lake comfortably, capture the best photos, and respect the local culture while having a great time!

Best Times to Visit

We highly recommend an early morning or late afternoon start for a perfect Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake. Why? Because of the cool breeze and softer sun at these times of the day, the weather is most pleasant, which will make your walk around the lake even easier and more pleasant. Besides avoiding heat during noon, joining the tour within this time range of 7:00 AM to 11:00 AM also allows experience this lake in its most tranquil state when it is mostly very calm. Moreover, seeing the morning light hit The Huc Bridge and Turtle Tower is a shot that a photographer could wish for!

What to Wear

As we will have so much walking, comfortable shoes are a must! You should have a lightweight one with good support to the feet in some cobblestone paths around the lake and also in the Old Quarter. Hanoi might get hot, especially during the summer months. Therefore, we recommend you use shirts and lightweight clothing that will keep you cool in your Hanoi Tours. Also, one shouldn’t forget a hat and sunblock-there will be plenty of opportunities to soak up the sun as we explore.

Photography Spots

For all the photographers and Instagram lovers out there, you’re in for a treat! Hoan Kiem Lake is full of picture-perfect spots, but the top places to snap unforgettable photos are:

• Turtle Tower: At the center of the lake, Turtle Tower stands graciously, reflecting quiet water and contrasting beautifully amidst greenery.
• The Huc Bridge: Probably the most recognizable image of Hanoi, this now-iconic little red bridge connects to the Ngoc Son Temple. It’s one of those places that will look even prettier at sunrise or sunset!
• Ngoc Son Temple: auf up to photos from the temple itself to the lush gardens and reflecting lake waters.

Remember, the beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake is all about the atmosphere, so take your time, find your favorite angle, and enjoy capturing the serenity of this incredible spot!

Local Etiquette

As we visit places like Ngoc Son Temple, it’s important to follow local customs and show respect for the cultural significance of these sacred spaces. Here are a few simple guidelines to keep in mind:

• Modest attire: Remember that you should wear clothes covering your shoulders and knees when visiting temples for entry into those places; it’s just respect to the local culture.
• Quiet demeanor: Temples are places for worship and reflection; please keep your voice low and avoid disrupting while we’re inside. Through these little steps, everyone can have a respectful and meaningful visit on our Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake.

Estimated Costs

The best thing about our Walking Tour Around Hoan Kiem Lake is that it’s rich in culture and also really, really affordable. The entry to Ngoc Son Temple is about 30,000 VND or about USD 1.30 for the entry fee, making for a stop well worth visiting and light on the wallet. If you plan to catch your water puppet show at Thang Long Water Puppet Theater, the price of tickets generally ranges between 100,000 – 200,000 VND ($4.30 – $8.60). Amen! These are just small prices for such a rich cultural experience:

The Huc Bridge

Operating Hours

Therefore, the best time to schedule a walking tour should be between 7:00 AM and 11:00 AM so you can make the most out of your Hanoi Tours. It is cooler at this time, and that is a good time when Hanoi is most alive; at its morning awakening phase. As for Ngoc Son Temple, it is open every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, which gives us an appropriate amount of time to head inside and marvel at its spiritual beauty. In case you’ve stayed to watch a water puppet show, the show plays several times every day, so you will be able to catch a performance that fits perfectly into our tour schedule.

Conclusion

A Walking Tour around Hoan Kiem Lake combines history, culture, and nature in harmony. From the legendary Turtle Tower to the breathtaking Ngoc Son Temple, this is one of those tours that should not be missed when exploring old Hanoi. Don’t forget to regularly follow our Impress Travel for more interesting information about traveling to Ha Noi  and to book Ha Noi Tours at the best prices.

Are you ready to join this unforgettable journey of your life? Impress Travel’s booking offers you a chance to visit the most iconic landmarks of Hanoi on an unforgettable Hanoi Walking Tour.

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