Hoan Kiem Lake, a fantastic place in the heart of Hanoi, is famous for its mysterious legend and natural beauty, which have made it one of the most attractive destinations in the city.

The lake’s original name was Luc Thuy (green water lake) because its water color is emerald throughout the year. Then in 1428, the lake was renamed Hoan Kiem (the Lake of the Returned Sword) by King Le Thai To.

Hoan Kiem lake, a treasure of Hanoi and a poetry inspiring place.

As the tourist magnet of Hanoi city, Hoan Kiem lake is a nice venue, a good gathering place for visitors and locals in four seasons in the Old Quarter.

The surroundings of the lake have a variety of attractions. It is simply a good place to walk, relax and soak up the atmosphere, then cross the street, see the water puppets, take a cycle ride, eat, drink and buy.

As beautiful as a flower basket in the heart of Hanoi, Hoan Kiem lake is surrounded by the streets of Dinh Tien Hoang, Le Thai To and Hang Khay. Its perimeter is about 1.8km long.

The lake, viewed from above looks like a large mirror reflecting big ancient trees, old pagodas and temples and new high-rises.

There are two islets on the lake. One is in the middle of the lake housing the Thap Rua (Tortoise Tower), one of the symbols of Hanoi.

Another one is Ngoc (Pearl) islet which is linked with the bank by Red Bridge (The Huc bridge).

Blue sky with yellow leaves on trees, on a cooler weather for the picturesque Hanoi in autumn.

When traveling to Hanoi, tourists can spend time visiting Hoan Kiem lake and its surrounding areas such as Ngoc Son Temple, Opera House, Saint Joseph Cathedral, Hanoi ancient quarter, among others.

Here tourists can visit Ngoc Son temple dedicated to the Jade Emperor and General Tran Hung Dao.

The best time to visit the lake is early morning to enjoy its serene, quiet scenery with a number of locals heading there for daily morning exercises.

Tourists are also interested in taking photos with beautiful landscape of Hoan Kiem lake.