#Hoan Kiem Lake

[travelbinge]

By Emanuelepinna

Hoàn Kiếm Lake, Hanoi, Vietnam

[thetaart]

Vietnam is a country that is full of culture, beauty, and rich history that stretches back thousands of years. One story that can be heard all over Vietnam is the tale of Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Hồ Gươm in Vietnamese. This mystical place is home to one of the most beloved legends in Vietnam's culture - the tale of the magical sword.

The story of Hồ Gươm is known today by almost every Vietnamese person, and it has been passed down through the generations since ancient times. It all started with an emperor named Le Loi, who lived during the 15th century. At this time, Vietnam was under the threat of an invasion by the Chinese Ming Dynasty. Vietnam had been fighting for its independence as a nation, but the Chinese army was proving to be a formidable foe.

One day, while he was boating on the Hồ Gươm, Le Loi spotted a golden turtle that was swimming towards him. This was no ordinary turtle, for it was huge and looked like it was shining with its own light. The turtle spoke to the emperor and told him that he was the Dragon King, and that he had come to help Le Loi in his fight.

The Dragon King offered Le Loi a magical sword known as Thuận Thiên. The blade was said to be one of the most powerful weapons in the world, and it was imbued with the power of the gods. Le Loi took the sword and used it in battle. He managed to repel the invading Chinese forces, and peace was restored to the land.

Le Loi was grateful for the Dragon King's gift, but he felt that he should return the sword to its owner. He went back to the Hồ Gươm and found the turtle, offering him the sword back. The Dragon King took the sword and dove deep into the lake where he still rests to this day.

The legend of the Hồ Gươm has enchanted people in Vietnam for centuries. Ngoc Son Temple stands on the northern shore of the lake, and it is dedicated to honoring the emperor Le Loi, as well as the turtle of the legend. The temple is a popular spot for tourists to come and learn more about Vietnam's rich culture, and it is a perfect example of the country's ancient history.

There is no doubt that the story of Hồ Gươm is a testament to the resilience of the Vietnamese people. It shows how they managed to fend off foreign invaders and preserve their independence as a nation. It also reminds people that there is more to the world than what we see with our eyes. There are mysteries and legends that have been passed down from our ancestors, and it is important to keep them alive for future generations.

In conclusion, the story of Hồ Gươm is a cherished legend of Vietnam that has continued to capture the hearts and imaginations of people all around the world. It is a story of bravery, heroism, and the power of legends that can inspire us all.

[crealkillerdesigns]

OLD QUARTER, VIETNAM: Diary of a Mad Expat, pt. 11

[hsmagazine254]

Unveiling the Charms of Hanoi: A Journey through History, Culture, and Delights

Live Fully in Vietnam: Explore, Relax, Play   Exploring the Vibrant Capital of Vietnam Hanoi, the bustling capital city of Vietnam, beckons adventurers with its rich history, vibrant culture, and delectable cuisine. From ancient temples and colonial architecture to bustling markets and serene lakes, Hanoi offers a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. In this travel guide, we invite you…

[thangnguyentraveler]

Exploring the Scenic Beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake

Hoan Kiem Lake, a sacred site in the heart of Hanoi, offers tourists a glimpse into Vietnam's rich history and culture, surrounded by scenic beauty. #hoankiemlake #hanoi #travel #vietnam

Hoan Kiem Lake is one of the most iconic landmarks of Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital city, and a must-visit destination for tourists. The lake is located in the heart of the city, surrounded by greenery and historical landmarks, making it a peaceful and picturesque location. Photo by Duc Nguyen on Pexels.com The lake’s name translates to “Lake of the Returned Sword” and according to legend, a magical…

[fistfuloflightning]

More Thuận Thiên from NBTK bc his design’s so fun

[meatjoy]

Tourist photography of Vietnam be like: motorbiker carrying flowers, colonial architecture, random vendor at a market, and most importantly a woman wearing the conical hat

[fatehbaz]

The Yangtze giant softshell turtle (Rafetus swinhoei), the world's largest freshwater turtle and one of the most endangered species on Earth, is now essentially doomed to extinction after the last known remaining female washed up dead in Vietnam. The female turtle, which was around 5 feet (1.5 meters) long and weighed 205 pounds (93 kilograms), was discovered dead on April 21 on the shores of Dong Mo Lake, in Hanoi's Son Tay district. [...] This particular female Yangtze giant softshell turtle was just discovered in October 2020. At the time, no other female Yangtze giant softshell turtles were known to exist [...]. There are now just two known R. swinhoei males left in existence: one in Suzhou Zoo and another that still resides in Dong Mo Lake. Researchers had hoped that the female and male in Dong Mo Lake would eventually mate and produce a clutch of eggs. [...] Yangtze giant softshell turtles, also known as Hoan Kiem turtles and Swinhoe's softshell turtles, were once abundant [...].

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Headline, images, captions, and text by: Harry Baker. “Largest freshwater turtle species doomed to extinction after last female washes up dead.” LiveScience. 5 May 2023. [The turtle is native to both the lower Yangtze River, near Shanghai, and also the Red River Delta ecoregion, near Hanoi.]

[moehistory]

A turtle living in a deep lake. It has a magical sword that it lends to a king when the country faces a serious problem. Make sure to return the sword.

Hoan Kiem Turtle

[jaypham123]

Ha Noi is an Ideal Tourist City

In the heart of Vietnam, embraced by the gentle flow of the Red River, lies Hanoi, a city where history whispers from ancient walls and modern vibrancy pulses through its streets. It is a place where the past and present coalesce, creating a tapestry rich with culture, cuisine, and captivating tales. This is the story of Hanoi, an ideal tourist city, through the eyes of Maya, a curious traveler with a thirst for discovery.

Maya arrived in Hanoi on a warm, sun-drenched morning, the city awakening with the gentle hum of motorbikes and the aromatic scents of street food filling the air. From the moment she stepped onto its bustling streets, Hanoi embraced her with an allure that spoke of centuries-old traditions and the infectious energy of progress.

Her journey began in the Old Quarter, a labyrinth of narrow streets alive with the essence of Hanoi’s past. Each turn revealed a new wonder: markets brimming with vibrant fruits and silks, ancient temples standing solemnly amid the buzz, and the lilting melodies of traditional music floating on the breeze. It was here, amidst the architectural tapestry of French colonial buildings and traditional Vietnamese houses, that Maya felt the soul of Hanoi.

But Hanoi was not just a gateway to the past. As Maya ventured beyond the Old Quarter, she discovered the city’s modern heartbeat. The serene Hoan Kiem Lake, with its iconic red bridge leading to the tranquil Ngoc Son Temple, offered a peaceful respite from the city’s energetic pace. Around the lake, young artists displayed their works, cafes buzzed with the chatter of friends, and families strolled in the cool evening air, reflecting the city’s vibrant contemporary culture.

Food was an adventure in itself. Maya indulged in pho, the aromatic noodle soup that is a staple of Vietnamese cuisine, and delighted in the explosion of flavors found in bún chả, a dish of grilled pork and noodles that is synonymous with Hanoi. Each meal was a journey through the flavors that define Vietnam, from the tangy zest of green papaya salad to the sweet bliss of egg coffee, a Hanoi innovation.

Hanoi’s idealism as a tourist city, however, lay not just in its sights and flavors but in the warmth of its people. Maya found kindness at every turn, from the street vendors who shared their stories over a bowl of noodles to the locals who guided her through the maze of the city’s streets. It was this connection, this shared humanity, that made Hanoi more than just a destination; it became a home away from home.

Her exploration took her to the Temple of Literature, Vietnam’s first national university and a sanctuary of Confucian learning. Walking through its serene courtyards, Maya felt the weight of history and the reverence for knowledge that is a cornerstone of Vietnamese culture.

As her journey came to an end, Maya stood once more by the shores of Hoan Kiem Lake, watching the sunset paint the sky in hues of gold and pink. Hanoi, with its blend of history and modernity, its culinary delights, and its gracious people, had etched a place in her heart. It was a city that offered not just sights to see but experiences to be lived, a place where every alley held a story and every face told of a rich cultural tapestry.

Hanoi, indeed, was an ideal tourist city, not because it was perfect but because it was alive — alive with the stories of the past, the vibrancy of the present, and the promise of the future. And for Maya, as for countless others, it was a journey that would linger in the soul long after the last echoes of the city had faded into the distance. (You can get the Vietnam electronic visa easily by urgent Vietnam visa or emergency Vietnam visa service from some agencies)

[mukul02]

Best Places to Visit in Vietnam

Situated in Southeast Asia, Vietnam is renowned for its opulent cultural legacy and breathtaking landscapes. Drawing travelers from across the globe, this nation boasts a tropical climate catering to diverse interests. Whether you’re a fan of history, a culinary enthusiast, a beach lover, or an adventure seeker, Vietnam tour packages extend a warm welcome with experiences tailored to every preference. So, let’s discover some of the top places to visit in Vietnam with your family and friends.

TOP AND BEST PLACES TO EXPLORE IN VIETNAM

HANOI

Source: hotels.com

Start your journey in Vietnam with the capital city, Hanoi. Steeped in history, Hanoi reflects the country’s resilience and charm. The Old Quarter is a maze of small streets where you can witness the city’s vibrant street life, taste local delicacies, and shop for traditional crafts.

Additionally, don’t miss the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum and the serene Hoan Kiem Lake, surrounded by historical temples.

HA LONG BAY

It is another must-visit destination in Vietnam. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to around 1,600 limestone islands and islets rising from emerald waters. Exploring this picturesque bay is best done by a traditional junk boat, readily available for rental.

Moreover, Kayaking is another popular and excellent way to get up close and personal with the bay’s natural beauty.

PHONG NHA-KE BANG NATIONAL PARK

Source: lonelyplanet.com

For nature lovers, Phong Nha-Ke Bang National Park is a true paradise waiting to be discovered. It is home to the world’s biggest cave systems, including Son Doong, the park is a UNESCO-listed site filled with lush landscapes, underground rivers, and captivating limestone formations. Take a guided tour to visit the impressive caves and soak in the pristine beauty of this natural wonder.

SAPA

Nestled in the northern reaches of Vietnam, Sapa is a charming town celebrated for its breathtaking mountain vistas, intricate rice terraces, and vibrant ethnic hill tribes. Serving as the portal to Fansipan, Vietnam’s loftiest peak, Sapa offers myriad exploration options, whether by foot or through a scenic cable car journey.

A distinctive aspect of the Sapa experience lies in the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture. Delve into the traditions of diverse ethnic groups, such as the Red Dzao, Hmong, and Dao, by opting to stay with a welcoming local family, fostering a rich understanding of their unique heritage.

HALONG BAY

Halong Bay is one of the beautiful bays near the Chinese border in the Gulf of Tonkin. The bay is famous for its towering limestone cliffs, emerald-green waters, and romantic cruise tours. You can explore the bay’s many islands, caves, and beaches on a traditional junk boat, kayaking, or swimming in the cool water. Halong Bay is also great for rock climbing, hiking, and fishing.

THE BOTTOM LINE

Vietnam is a captivating nation, offering diverse experiences catering to every traveler’s taste. The country has various destinations to explore, from vibrant urban hubs to serene rural landscapes, from unspoiled beaches to awe-inspiring mountains. The ones mentioned above are merely a snapshot of Vietnam culture. So, if you are planning to visit Vietnam, prepare your luggage, secure your tickets, and brace yourself for an unforgettable expedition across the enchanting landscapes with Vietnam tour packages.

[theartindetails]

“Serene Reflections” - 12/26/2023

📍Hoan Kiem Lake, Hanoi, Vietnam

Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the center of Hanoi, Vietnam. This lake is rich in culture and history. The legend of the lake is that Emperor Le Loi returned the magical sword to the Golden Turtle God, a giant turtle. Hoan Kiem Lake is surrounded by scenic temples, gardens, and pagodas. Throughout history, Hoan Kiem Lake has been a symbol of Vietnamese independence and residence.

During my visit to the Hoan Kiem Lake in Vietnam, I was drawn to the serene beauty of the reflective lake. I was captivated by the still water, reflecting the greenery like a mirror. I felt a deep sense of connection to the nature and cultural significance of the lake. Nearby the lake, I visited the Temple of Jade Mountain, where I gazed at the koi fish pond. The appearance and movements of the gold and black koi fish caught my attention. Their graceful presence reminded me of the beauty of the natural world.

[trahoalai]

(It’s Time For Water Themed Questions With Julie!) have you ever been in the ocean? if you were a pirate what would you name your ship? do you think there’s undiscovered sea monsters? do you need to go drink water?

Ive actually been drinking plenty of water :DD and artichoke tea its way different than you would expect it to taste haha

yeah around five years ago me and my mom went to vietnam, we had like a boat tour and saw many islands :0 I didnt enjoy it as much as I should have bc the sand was really irritating me, I wanna do it again

also like every time I go to the beach if that counts hehe

ik they're super bad for the environment but I love boats and cruises, theres something soothing about floating and being surrounded by all water.....maybe I was a pirate in a past life lmao. probably after some mythological creature. look up the legend of hoan kiem lake :0

yeah why not. I love paranormal stories and folklore I think its so interesting and it adds spice to my life 💖

[southeastasiadiary]

Day 4: From Literature to Egg Coffee, Interrupted by a Cyclo Ride

I mentioned on Day 1 that one of the reasons I have long wanted to come to Vietnam is that Hanoi is home to the Temple of Literature, a name that I find absolutely fascinating. Well, today I got to visit the Temple of Literature. (Check off one major life goal accomplished.)

Constructed in the eleventh century, this complex contains a temple to Confucius, Vietnam’s earliest university, the site of national exams for scholars in feudal times, and basically everything that you can imagine in terms of glorifying higher learning. As far as I’m concerned, if there's a heaven, it must look something like this.

The centrality of education to Vietnamese culture is apparent from the fact that the site is featured on the back of the 100,000 Vietnamese đồng banknote.

After spending much of the morning at the Temple of Literature, our next stop was far more sobering: the Hanoi Hilton, also known as Hoa Lo Prison (“Fiery Furnace Prison,” so-called because of the pottery kilns that were on the site before the prison was built). The French, who built the structure in 1896 when they were still trying to turn Vietnam into a French Colony, simply called it the Maison Centrale, an oddly quaint name that belied the horrors that occurred there.

The exhibits at the prison surely don’t pull any punches with regard to brutalities that occurred there or the impact of the American war of the 1960s and 1970s. The futility of that conflict seems inescapable. The stated goal of American involvement was to prevent communism from coming to Vietnam and then to all of Southeast Asia. Well, communism came anyway, but now Vietnam is one of America's closest allies, and even Ho Chi Minh’s complex has its own, very capitalist-oriented gift shop (as does the Hanoi Hilton, for that matter). So, what was all that suffering for, again?

After lunch, the tone grew lighter once more with an hourlong cyclo ride through the Old Town.

Seated basically on the front of a tricycle without seatbelt or helmet can be an interesting experience as cars and hundreds of motorbikes all seem to be coming toward you at once. (If the video below doesn’t play automatically, be sure to click on it to make it start. You need to see it as a video to get the full effect.)

Many streets of Old Town are devoted to individual trades, like the bamboo, market, the fish market,

the flower market, and so on.

The ride ended at St. Joseph’s Cathedral, built by the French (when, apparently, they weren’t building prisons) from 1882 to 1886. Most Vietnamese just call it “the big church,” and it’s easy to see why.

We then walked partly around Hoan Kiem Lake (only partly around because some heavy rain showers came through late this afternoon). The name of the lake means the “Lake of the Returned Sword," because of a legend that a magical sword once used by the most revered heroes to defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty had to be returned to the Golden Turtle God of the lake. What is it about kings and the magical swords they so often receive from figures living in lakes?

The day ended with a stop at Cafe Dihn, a tiny (and very crowded) coffee shop on the second floor of a building adjacent to the lake.

There Tony introduced me to egg coffee, which sounds unappetizing but is actually amazing. First developed at the Hotel Metropole in Hanoi, the inventor’s daughter then founded the Cafe Dihn, which has been serving it ever since. I don’t know how to describe it. It’s like cappuccino but even thicker and creamier. Its taste is sweet and chocolatey, more like a dessert than just a cup of coffee. Certainly a wonderful way to end a marvelous day.

[maurestaurantvietnamese]

Mau Restaurant - Vietnamese & vegetarian food

Welcome to Mau restaurant ( Authentic Vietnamese Cuisine) Mau restaurant - vietnamese vegetarian food is Located in the heart of Hanoi Old Quarter , just a couple of steps away from Hoan Kiem Lake . Small and cozy Vietnamese restaurant & Vegetarian options in Hanoi. We serve Vietnamese traditional dishes from three parts in Vietnam including the north , the central and the south.

Come to Mau Restaurants right away to enjoy the restaurant's varied food.

Hotline: 0975427348

Address: 88, Hang Bac, Hoan Kiem, Hà Nội 110116

Google Maps: https://goo.gl/maps/pv8bffGD3rhJQC619

[katelyn-scstudyabroad]

I don’t have a full story to blog for this week, but I do have some moments to share.

1. A typical Vietnamese meal consists of rice or noodles with some vegetables and meats. This rice plate from a street stall cost 25k dong, which is about $1.

2. On the weekends characters walk around Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi selling balloons, candies, and toys. I caught a candid of these two frogs having a discussion.

3. I thought this decoration in a bakery was cute. In Vietnam it is the year of the Cat.

4. Highlands is a Vietnamese coffee chain comparable to Starbucks. I like this particular location because it is on an old boat.

5. The Vietnamese National Fine Arts Museum is located in the heart of Hanoi and has an extensive collection of pieces from Vietnam’s thousands of years of history. I liked this lacquer painting representing the North and the South uniting.

6. In Japantown there is an amazing selection of Japanese food. Me and my friend got this delicious assortment of takoyaki. Japanese food is unfortunately a lot more expensive than Vietnamese food, but all types of food in Hanoi are still cheaper than back in the US.

7. St. Joseph’s Cathedral was decorated for Easter and special services were held. There is a sizable Catholic population in Vietnam leftover from the French occupation, but for most people Easter was just another day.