Lake of the Returned Sword

The Lake of the Returned Sword is located in the center of Hanoi, it is also called Hoan Kye and Lake of Green Water. This is due to the fact that the water has a greenish tinge due to algae. The area of the reservoir formed on the site of the old channel of the Red River is 12 hectares. It is a symbol of the capital of Vietnam, a place where history is intertwined with legend.

History

Emperor Le Loy, who became a national hero of Vietnam, led an uprising against the Chinese Ming Dynasty in the 15th century. According to an ancient legend, the golden turtle helped in this difficult task. She gave him the magical sword Thuan Thien, with which he managed to win. After the triumph, Le Loy held a celebration on the lake.

He saw the mysterious turtle again, who said that the sword was sent to slay the enemy. Since the duty was done, she asked for the weapon back. The blade was thrown into the water, the turtle grabbed it and disappeared into the water. After that, the emperor named the reservoir Lake of the Returned Sword.

Description

There is a park around the Lake of the Returned Sword, the lights turn on in the evening, and the place becomes more cozy. Benches are set up on the shore, cafes are open, there are stalls with street food. There are 2 islands on the lake: on the South Island, a Turtle Tower was built in the form of a four-tiered pagoda, created as a monument to the legend, and a picturesque wooden bridge of dawn rays, painted red, leads to the North Island. This is one of the most popular places for meetings and photo shoots in the capital of Vietnam.

The Jade Mountain Temple was built on a small island in the center of the Lake of the Returned Sword. There is no jade in the building, the name is figurative, because in Eastern culture jade is considered a symbol of purity and nobility. To get to this place, you need to cross the red wooden bridge. A religious place is an open attraction, and everyone can visit it regardless of religion, but the rules must be followed. Clothing should cover the shoulders and knees, and shoes should be removed before entering the main hall. Inside, you need to behave calmly and not make noise, do not bring food and drinks with you.

How to get

To see the Lake of the Returned Sword, you need to come to the center of Hanoi, also known as the Old Quarter, and walk 5-10 minutes. Bus No. 86 runs from Noibai International Airport, which goes to the city center and stops next to the reservoir.

Buses are also suitable. №4, 8, 9, 11, 14, 18, 23, 31, 34, 36, 40. If it is inconvenient to travel by public transport, you can get to the Lake of the Returned Sword by rented transport, taxi or motorcycle taxi.