Hoan Kiem lake - An emblem of Hanoi

Hoan Kiem Lake is an enchanting body of water, willows hang over the lake and reflect in the rippling light of dusk. Centrally located in the city, Hoan Kiem Lake serves as a massive home base, and provides endless people-watching and recreational opportunities on the edge of the Old Quarter.

Hoan Kiem Lake is a dynamic daily tableau, from morning walks amid locals doing exercises on the shore, to young couple water-gazing on park benches, to the multiple shopping and sight-seeing opportunities in the vicinity.

The legend says that the Vietnamese emperor returned the sword that helped him banish the Chinese to the golden turtle god here - A rare of turtle enjoys this popular lake almost as much as countless locals and tourists.

Ngoc Son Temple sits on an island in Hoan Kiem Lake. The ramshackle Turtle Tower, on an islet near the southern end, is topped with a red star and is often used as an emblem of Hanoi.