(NADS) - Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Sword Lake, is located in the heart of the city. It is one of the historical landmarks and scenic spots of the capital that cannot be missed.
Previously, the lake had several other names such as Luc Thuy Lake or Thuy Quan Lake. In the 15th century, the lake was renamed Hoan Kiem Lake, associated with the legend of King Le Thai To returning the precious sword to the golden turtle. Legend says that when King Le Thai To drove out the invading Ming army, he found a sword named Thuan Thien. This was the divine sword that the Dragon King had lent to the king to fight the enemy.
After defeating the Ming invaders and ascending to the throne in 1428, while strolling on Ta Vong Lake, the Golden Turtle surfaced and demanded that the king return the magic sword to the Dragon King. The king returned the sword, and the Golden Turtle slowly disappeared. From then on, the king decided to rename the lake Hoan Kiem Lake, or Sword Lake, the name we still use today.
Due to its prime location, connecting the Old Quarter (streets like Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Cau Go, Luong Van Can, etc.) with the Western Quarter (streets like Nha Tho, Trang Thi, Hang Bai, Trang Tien, Hang Khay, etc.), Hoan Kiem Lake attracts many domestic and international tourists to visit and explore .
Hoan Kiem Lake is a gathering place, an ideal meeting point in all four seasons: vibrant with peach blossoms and traditional festivals in spring; refreshing breezes dispelling the oppressive heat of summer; enchanting with weeping willow branches in the mystical mist of autumn; and magnificent in the shower of golden leaves and the gentle drizzle of winter.
This place is also deeply connected to the spiritual and historical traditions of the capital. Hoan Kiem Lake has two islands: Ngoc Island, located in the north of the lake, is connected to the curved The Huc Bridge, which houses Ngoc Son Temple with its unique architecture and a harmonious blend of Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist elements. In the middle of the lake is the smaller Turtle Island, topped by the ancient, century-old Turtle Tower, standing silently amidst the shimmering waters.
On the three weekend days, the streets around Hoan Kiem Lake will become pedestrian zones with many attractive activities such as street music , folk games, etc., attracting a large number of tourists.
Despite being situated amidst the opulent, modern, and bustling capital city, Hoan Kiem Lake has retained its ancient and tranquil beauty over time. This tranquility and antiquity create an invisible barrier separating Hoan Kiem Lake from the vibrant Hanoi in the distance. This unique characteristic makes it a must-see for anyone visiting Hanoi.
Admire beautiful photos of Ho Guom Lake through the eyes of photographers and artists, featuring the best works from various photography competitions.
Source: https://nhiepanhdoisong.vn/nhung-hinh-anh-dep-ve-ho-guom-bieu-tuong-van-hoa-lich-su-cua-thu-do-14902.html
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