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.
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!
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.
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!
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.
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 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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
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
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:
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.
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.
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!
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!
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.
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:
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!
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:
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
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.
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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Day 1: HANOI ARRIVAL – GREETING – HANOI CITY TOUR– Private Tour (L)
Day 2: HANOI – NINH BINH (TAM COC, HOA LU) TOUR (B/L)
Day 3: HANOI – HALONG CRUISE (B/L/D)
Day 4: HALONG BAY – HANOI (B/L)
Day 5: HANOI CITY CENTER TO NOI BAI AIRPORT – DEPARTURE (B)
Day Inclusions: Private A/C transfer, English-speaking tour guide in Hanoi, lunch, entrance fee, hotel in Hanoi
Day Inclusions: Transfer, breakfast, lunch, tour guide, rowing boat, entrance fee, bicycles, hotel in Hanoi.
Day Inclusions: Hotel breakfast, shuttle bus A/C transfer, English speaking tour guide on CRUISE only, entrance fee, full board, joint Cruise in Halong bay with private cabin (2 persons share 1 cabin)
What’s included in this trip :
4 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
| City | Hotel | Room |
| Hanoi | Silk Path/ La Siesta Premium | Deluxe with windows |
| Halong Bay | Paradise Sail/Bhaya cruise | Deluxe with windows |
5 STAR HOTEL TO BE USED
| City | Hotel | Room |
| Hanoi | Peridot Hotel/Apricot | Deluxe with windows |
| Halong Bay | Paradise Elegance/Au Co | Deluxe with windows |
We went on a private trip to Vietnam and Cambodia, the whole trip plan was organized for us by the Impress Travel Company from Vietnam, the company did an amazing job, the whole trip was organized in a wonderful way with an amazing match between the various parties, their choices were correct and the quality of the hotels chosen were very high quality and it is important to note that the price was low in comparison To other agencies, thanks to Impress Travel and especially to Daniel who was tolerant and open to changes and organized the route for us.
Impress travel were amazing. Did my bookings with Daniel for our tour of Vietnam and I must say Daniel was very professional and prompt with his services. All the arrangement, plans, pick-up & drop-off services, hotels, vehicles, sightseeing tours and guides were spot on and excellent. Did 4 nights Hanoi, 1 night Hà Long Bay cruise, 3 nights Hoian, 4 nights Saigon and 1 night in Can Tho. It was totally awesome. Every part of the journey was superbly arranged and planned. I will highly recommend Impress Travel for anyone interested in visiting Vietnam. Very organized and reliable!
I booked with Impress Travel in July. My contact person was Tommy Thang. He is an amazing person. He was very helpful. He changed my program twice for me. Very accommodating!
We started our holiday in the north (Sapa)of Vietnam and travelled down to HCMC.
The tour was fantastic, Tommy's arrangements were to the"T".
I will always use them if I have to visit the area again and recommend them to one and all.
Thank you once again Mr.Tommy and the Impress Team.
Sulaiman Pochee
Great value for money with 4 stars hotel accommodation for 4 couples. The tour guide has been very helpful and brought us to amazing places in Sapa. We want to thanks Thuy the tour guide and especially Mark from Impress Travel for his great service and assurance throughout our trip. We’ll definitely use his service for other tour packages in other parts of Vietnam.
This is the second time we travel to Vietnam with IMPRESS Travel. First time, we booked our holiday to Hanoi, Halong Bay & Sapa during Dec 2018 with Impress.
Second time, we travel to Hoi An, Hue & Danang (Central Vietnam) during Jan 2019.
My friends & I are very glad & happy with all the hotels stay in Central Vietnam, the meals provided are delicious. We are greatly appreciated with all the tour arrangement by Tommy & his team (tour guide).
Especially, Mr. NHAT C.V. He is helpful, cheerful, knowledgeable and very professional. He always volunteer to take a nice pictures for six of us (group) .
We enjoyed our holiday with Impress travel. We will definitely come back to Vietnam again with Impress
Impress Travel offers daily tours to attractive destinations in the capital of Hanoi as well as package tours to explore the most popular destinations in North Vietnam, such as Ha Long Bay, Ninh Binh, and Sapa, or adventure tours to explore the Northeast & Northwest regions such as Ha Giang, Cao Bang, Bac Kan, Mu Cang Chai. Our products focus on providing travel services for private tours, small groups, family groups, and couples who need to make special requests for the trip. For the trip to Hanoi & North Vietnam, your submission to Impress Travel & Destination Management Company (DMC), which will bring the greatest value to your trip.
To explore Hanoi Capital's hidden charm for the first day, visit the most iconic attractions such as historical President Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum complex, Ancient Temple of Literature, tranquil Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi elderly quarter. Then, the upcoming of Hanoi – Halong Tour, we will have an amazing 2 day and 1 night stay on an outstanding cruise to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
We will explore the most amazing places in the north of Vietnam. We will bring you to explore Hanoi charming city. Then, we are going to Tam Coc, Ninh Binh where we visit the Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, enjoy the boat trip in Tam Coc and to discover the countryside. The unforgettable time is on Halong bay cruise that bring you to explore the seven natural wonder of the world.
To bring travelers to discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi’s hidden charm .The stunning beauty of North Vietnam come up with Sapa’s discovery were attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay
To discover the most iconic of treasures in the Northern part of Vietnam. Travelers get ahead with the discovery of Hanoi. Then, to explore stunning beauty of Sapa where we are attracted by imposing sceneries such as rows of mountains, hills, lush valleys, rice terraces, waterfalls, and ethnic minority community. Afterward, visitors following up to Ha Long Bay & Ninh Binh (Tam Coc).
