Hoan Kiem Lake, the heart of Hanoi, is not only a famous scenic spot with ancient and mysterious beauty but also a historical witness, preserving the sacred soul of the country. Amidst the bustling pace of the city, the tranquil lake surface reflects age-old cultural values like a mirror. Instead of admiring Hoan Kiem Lake from the crowded streets, try experiencing paddle boating on Hoan Kiem Lake once, to feel the peaceful beauty and discover unique perspectives that few people know about.
History of Hoan Kiem Lake and Turtle Tower
Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Guom Lake (Sword Lake), is not just a natural lake but also carries fascinating historical stories and legends. The name “Hoan Kiem” is associated with the legend of King Le Thai To returning the precious sword to the Golden Turtle God after defeating the Ming invaders, an event imbued with the meaning of peace and gratitude. In the middle of the lake, Turtle Tower stands tall as a sacred symbol, associated with the image of the Great Turtle and legendary tales. Turtle Tower is not only a unique architectural work but also an inseparable part of Hoan Kiem Lake, creating a harmonious combination of nature and history. In the past, Hoan Kiem Lake was also called Luc Thuy Lake because the lake water was blue all year round. In the 15th century, when King Le Thai To established the capital in Thang Long, the lake was renamed Hoan Kiem Lake. Through many historical ups and downs, Hoan Kiem Lake still retains its ancient beauty and becomes an indispensable part of the cultural and spiritual life of Hanoians.
Cultural Significance of Hoan Kiem Lake to Hanoians
Hoan Kiem Lake is not only a famous tourist destination but also a particularly important cultural space for the people of Hanoi. Hoan Kiem Lake is the venue for many cultural events and traditional festivals, a place where people come to relax, stroll, and enjoy the fresh air. Surrounding the lake are ancient architectural works such as Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, Pen Tower, and Ink Slab, creating a unique historical and cultural relic complex. Each corner of the lake, each building carries its own stories, contributing to the diverse and rich beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake. In the minds of Hanoians, Hoan Kiem Lake is a symbol of peace, a place where the cultural and historical essence of the capital converges. Despite life’s changes, Hoan Kiem Lake is still a familiar destination, a place of homecoming for Hanoians and an unmissable stop for visitors from all over.
Experience Paddle Boating on Hoan Kiem Lake
Paddle boating on Hoan Kiem Lake offers a completely different experience compared to walking or riding an electric car around the lake. From the water, you will have the opportunity to admire the beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake from a new perspective, feeling the tranquility and peace in the heart of the bustling city. Currently, paddle boat services on Hoan Kiem Lake have been developed to serve tourists. You can choose between romantic swan pedal boats or traditional rowing boats to explore the lake in your own way. When paddle boating on Hoan Kiem Lake, you are free to explore every corner of the lake, from the green trees shading the water to the ancient architectural works reflected shimmering in the water. You can stop at any point you like to take pictures, admire the scenery, or simply immerse yourself in the peaceful space of the lake. In particular, the experience of paddle boating on Hoan Kiem Lake in the early morning or late afternoon will bring unforgettable emotions. Sunrise over Hoan Kiem Lake is brilliant with the morning sun shining down on the water, creating a magical scene. As sunset falls, the lake surface is dyed a romantic orange-yellow, Turtle Tower hidden in the evening mist becomes even more ancient and mysterious. 
Tourists paddle boating on Hoan Kiem Lake, discovering its beauty from a unique perspective.
Tips and Notes for Paddle Boating on Hoan Kiem Lake
To have a complete and safe paddle boating experience on Hoan Kiem Lake, you should note a few things: – Choose the right time: Early morning or late afternoon is the best time to paddle boat, when the weather is cool and the light is beautiful. Avoid paddle boating in the hot midday sun or when it rains.
- Choose the right type of boat: If you want to relax and enjoy the scenery, swan pedal boats are an interesting choice. If you want to experience traditional rowing and explore the lake proactively, rowing boats will be more suitable.
- Wear comfortable clothes: You should choose neat, comfortable clothes that are suitable for the weather. Bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen if paddle boating during the day.
- Ensure safety: Always wear a life jacket when paddle boating, especially when going with children. Comply with the safety regulations of the boat management unit.
- Respect the landscape and relics: Do not litter in the lake, and do not make noise that affects the peaceful space of the lake. When visiting Turtle Tower or other architectural works, maintain hygiene and respect the regulations of the relic site.
- Ask for the price and negotiate before renting a boat: You should ask clearly about the boat rental price and rental time before getting on the boat to avoid unnecessary misunderstandings.
Suggested Itinerary for Exploring Hoan Kiem Lake Combined with Paddle Boating
To have a complete trip to explore Hoan Kiem Lake, you can combine the paddle boating experience on Hoan Kiem Lake with visiting famous destinations around the lake: 1. Morning:
- Arrive at Hoan Kiem Lake in the early morning to enjoy the fresh air and watch the sunrise over the lake.
- Paddle boat on Hoan Kiem Lake for about 1-2 hours to explore the beauty of the lake from the water.
- Visit Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, Pen Tower, and Ink Slab to learn about the history and culture of the relic site.
- Noon:
- Enjoy Hanoi cuisine at delicious restaurants and eateries around Hoan Kiem Lake. You can try specialties such as pho, bun cha, bun thang, spring rolls, etc.
- Afternoon:
- Visit Hanoi Old Quarter, explore the small streets, ancient houses, and traditional shops.
- Enjoy egg coffee or iced tea on the sidewalk, watching the bustling life of Hanoi streets.
- If you have more time, you can watch water puppetry, a unique traditional art form of Vietnam.
- Evening:
- Stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake in the evening, watching the lake shimmer in the night lights.
- Enjoy Trang Tien ice cream or famous Hanoi street snacks.
Paddle boating on Hoan Kiem Lake is not only a fun recreational activity but also a great way to discover the beauty and feel the sacred soul of Hoan Kiem Lake. Experience paddle boating on Hoan Kiem Lake once to have memorable memories of Hanoi and love this land of thousands of years of civilization even more.