Local Heritage Ep.20: Hoan Kiem Lake - The Shimmering Jewel of Hanoi

In addition to its spectacular natural landscape, the Hoan Kiem Lake area also features many famous historical sites and landmarks, offering diverse experiences for visitors:

 

1. Turtle Tower at Hoan Kiem Lake

Turtle Tower is an ancient structure located on Turtle Island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. The tower has a rectangular architecture with three floors, numerous windows, and a balcony on the top floor, adorned with exquisite decorations. It holds significant historical value and has stood the test of time. Visiting Turtle Tower, you can enjoy the peaceful and serene atmosphere amidst the hustle and bustle of Hanoi. The time-weathered image of Turtle Tower has become an iconic symbol of Hanoi, portrayed in many romantic paintings of the capital.

 

2. Ngoc Son Temple

Ngoc Son Temple is a famous spiritual tourist destination located on Ngoc Island in Hoan Kiem Lake. At Ngoc Son Temple, visitors can learn about the unique architecture of the Pen Tower (Thap But), the Huc Bridge, and the two worshiping shrines inside the temple. It is not only a popular tourist attraction but also a place steeped in cultural and historical values of the capital region.

 

3. Pen Tower (Thap But) and the Ink-Slab (Dai Nghien)

Pen Tower and Ink-Slab are two unique architectural works built simultaneously in 1865 at Ngoc Son Temple, on Ngoc Island, Hoan Kiem Lake. The Pen Tower consists of three legs standing on the backs of three frogs, with a carved poem in Chinese characters on the sloping body consisting of 64 characters. The Ink-Slab is designed in the shape of a 9-meter-high brush pen, with the brush tip pointing upwards. These two structures symbolize the scholarly tradition of the Vietnamese people as well as pride in the intellect and culture of the nation.

 

4. The Huc Bridge

The Huc Bridge is a distinctive highlight amidst the lush greenery of Hoan Kiem Lake. The bridge connects the lake's shore to Ngoc Son Temple, with its red-painted structure and gracefully curved design resembling a soft silk ribbon. Despite being a famous check-in spot, few people know that the Huc Bridge holds a very special significance. The bridge is built facing the direction of the sunrise, symbolizing the reception of positive energy and the condensation of light. The bridge's color scheme represents life, joy, and happiness. Additionally, the name "The Huc" is likened to "The Bridge of the Sun God."