Hoan Kiem Lake
Beautiful as it is interesting, Hoan Kiem Lake is an iconic landmark located in the Hanoi’s city centre, a special lake known for the legend that surrounds it.
According to legend, during the mid-15th century reign of Emperor Ly Thai To, heaven sent him a magical sword that he used to drive away Chinese conquerors from Vietnam. After the war, a giant turtle took the sword and dived into the lakes to restore it to the gods, inspiring the title Ho Hoan Kiem, or Lake of the Restored Sword. Today, the lake is a popular location for all sorts of activities — tai-chi and running enthusiasts gather here in the morning, cyclists drive around the area during the afternoon, and during the night, locals and tourists take leisurely walks here.
Location
Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the centre of Hanoi.
Opening Days and Hours
Opens daily, 24 hours.
Entry Fee and Bookings
Entrance is free.
How to Get There
- Fly to Hanoi via AirAsia, Korean Airlines, Asiana Airlines, Thai Airways, and Vietnam Airlines.
- In Hanoi, board a mototaxi to Hoan Kiem Lake.
Suggested For
- Solo travelers
- Couples
- Families with kids
- Groups of friends
Time to Spend
The average duration spent in this attraction is 1 to 3 hours.
Popularity and Best Time to Go
Health buffs will enjoy the morning activities near the lake. For those who want to enjoy Hanoi at night, visiting after 18:00 is the ideal time to visit.
Activities
- Tai Chi
- Jogging
- Biking
Food
Highway4 Restaurants, Green Tangerine Restaurant, Cafe de Paris, Xuan Xuan, Xoi Yen, Cha Cha Thang Long, and Cafe Nola are some of the nearby dining options to choose from.
Nearby Attractions
- Vietnamese Women’s Museum
- Temple of Literature
- Ho Chi Minh Museum
- Lenin Park
Stay
Affordable accommodations are all over Hanoi. You can choose from the different hotels in Hanoi such as Hanoi Old Quarter Hotel, Thaison Palace Hotel, Angel Palace Hotel, Hanoi Rocks Hostel, Hanoi Holiday Diamond Hotel, and Hanoi Buddy Inn. Rates range from USD 25 to USD 100.
