♦ M.A. Dang Thi Anh Tuyet

thuongHoan Kiem Lake, also known as Gươm Lake, is not only a natural body of water lying at the center of Hanoi, but also a reservoir of profound historical and cultural values that has become an irreplaceable symbol of Viet Nam.

thuongHoan Kiem Lake is located right at the heart of the capital, within Hoan Kiem Ward. Covering approximately 12 hectares with a perimeter of about 1,7 kilometers, Gươm Lake serves as a green lung, providing a source of unpolluted air and a poetic, romantic setting for the dense, narrow Old Quarter. This prime location also connects the thousand-year-old Old Quarter to the French colonial buildings, creating a unique cultural intersection.

thuongBefore the name Hoan Kiem Lake, the lake had undergone several name changes, each closely tied to a specific historical period. Lục Thủy Lake (Green Water) is the earliest name from the feudal era, reflecting the year-round clear emerald green color of the lakewater. Another name, Thủy Quân Lake, appeared in the 18th century, when Trịnh lords utilised a portion of the lake as the practice grounds for naval training. At one point, the lake got divided into two halves by a strip of land, with the North Lake called Tả Vọng and the South Lake called Hữu Vọng; after Hữu Vọng Lake was filled in for urban expansion, the remaining Tả Vọng Lake became today’s Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

thuongThe name Hoan Kiem Lake (Hoàn is return, Kiếm is a sword) was officially formed at the beginning of the 15th century, linked to a national legendary myth. After leading the resistance war against the Ming invaders to victory and ascending the throne, Lê Thái Tổ (Lê Lợi) had a boat trip on Lục Thủy Lake. Suddenly, a huge Sacred Turtle approached the king’s boat and said, “Your Majesty, please return the sword to the Dragon Lord” (the Lord of the Water Realm)! The “Thuận Thiên” (Heaven’s Will) sword, which Lê Lợi used to defeat the invaders, was originally a treasure lent by the Dragon Lord through Lê Thận. Seeing that the mission was complete, the king lifted the sword and returned it to the Sacred Turtle. The Sacred Turtle swiftly took the sword and dove into the lake, disappearing. Ever since, Lục Thủy Lake has been renamed Hoan Kiem Lake, the symbol of Vietnamese gratitude, patriotism, and love of peace. Along the riverbank and on the water lies an architectural and historical complex, creating a harmonious painting that reflects the depths of Hanoian culture.  Rùa Tower is a small yet iconic structure, located on an islet in the middle of the lake. Built in the late 19th century, its architecture is a unique blend of European Gothic style and Vietnamese traditional traits, with three stories, curved roofs, and the figure of the Sacred Turtle at the top.

thuongHoan Kiem Lake, also known as Gươm Lake, is not only a natural body of water lying at the center of Hanoi, but also a reservoir of profound historical and cultural values that has become an irreplaceable symbol of Viet Nam.

thuongHoan Kiem Lake is located right at the heart of the capital, within Hoan Kiem Ward. Covering approximately 12 hectares with a perimeter of about 1,7 kilometers, Gươm Lake serves as a green lung, providing a source of unpolluted air and a poetic, romantic setting for the dense, narrow Old Quarter. This prime location also connects the thousand-year-old Old Quarter to the French colonial buildings, creating a unique cultural intersection.

thuongBefore the name Hoan Kiem Lake, the lake had undergone several name changes, each closely tied to a specific historical period. Lục Thủy Lake (Green Water) is the earliest name from the feudal era, reflecting the year-round clear emerald green color of the lakewater. Another name, Thủy Quân Lake, appeared in the 18th century, when Trịnh lords utilised a portion of the lake as the practice grounds for naval training. At one point, the lake got divided into two halves by a strip of land, with the North Lake called Tả Vọng and the South Lake called Hữu Vọng; after Hữu Vọng Lake was filled in for urban expansion, the remaining Tả Vọng Lake became today’s Hoàn Kiếm Lake.

thuongThe name Hoan Kiem Lake (Hoàn is return, Kiếm is a sword) was officially formed at the beginning of the 15th century, linked to a national legendary myth. After leading the resistance war against the Ming invaders to victory and ascending the throne, Lê Thái Tổ (Lê Lợi) had a boat trip on Lục Thủy Lake. Suddenly, a huge Sacred Turtle approached the king’s boat and said, “Your Majesty, please return the sword to the Dragon Lord” (the Lord of the Water Realm)! The “Thuận Thiên” (Heaven’s Will) sword, which Lê Lợi used to defeat the invaders, was originally a treasure lent by the Dragon Lord through Lê Thận. Seeing that the mission was complete, the king lifted the sword and returned it to the Sacred Turtle. The Sacred Turtle swiftly took the sword and dove into the lake, disappearing. Ever since, Lục Thủy Lake has been renamed Hoan Kiem Lake, the symbol of Vietnamese gratitude, patriotism, and love of peace. Along the riverbank and on the water lies an architectural and historical complex, creating a harmonious painting that reflects the depths of Hanoian culture.  Rùa Tower is a small yet iconic structure, located on an islet in the middle of the lake. Built in the late 19th century, its architecture is a unique blend of European Gothic style and Vietnamese traditional traits, with three stories, curved roofs, and the figure of the Sacred Turtle at the top.

thuongThe presence of Rùa Tower not only adorns the ancient beauty of the quiet lake but also solidifies the authenticity and mystery of the Sword-returning legend. Rùa Tower, glimpsed under the green canopies, reflecting on the emerald surface, creates a scene so captivating that every visitor must admire it. On the Northern shore of the lake, another prominent relic complex makes up the distinct charm of Hoan Kiem Lake: Ngoc Son Temple, The Huc Bridge, But Tower, and Nghien Pavilion. The Huc Bridge (meaning “where morning sunlights rest”) is a curved scarlet wooden bridge, gracefully connecting the shore to the gate of Ngoc Son Temple. The brilliant scarlet stands out against the emerald water and greenery, creating a colorful, poetic highlight. The bridge is built in the traditional style, serving as a path to the cultural and spiritual realm. Ngoc Son Temple is located on Ngọc Island, honoring the Great Prince Hung Đao Tran Quoc Tuan (the national hero) and Văa Xuong Đe Quan (the god of literature and examinations). The temple embodies Vietnamese traditions of studiousness and patriotism. Before entering the temple, visitors have to pass through the Tam Quan Gate and Nghiên Pavilion - Bút Tower. Bút Tower is a five-story structure built on Độc Tôn Mountain, with the tip shaped like a writing brush pointing straight to the sky. The foot of the tower rests on three stone frogs, resembling an ink pad. Both the tower and the pavilion reflect the intellectual ambitions, honoring culture and academics.

thuongHoan Kiem Lake is more than a mere heritage site; it also serves as a lively venue for cultural and entertainment activities and a gathering point for Hanoians. On weekend nights, the areas surrounding Hoan Kiem Lake and nearby streets become the Walking Street. The space becomes full of energy with street arts performed by acoustic music bands, hip-hop dance groups, and traditional arts such as hát xẩm (Xẩm traditional singing) and ca trù (Vietnamese traditional ceremonial singing), folk games, and collective games like rope jumping, ô ăn quan, and tug-of-war, attracting all ages to participate. In terms of cultural exchange, this is an ideal place for international tourists to immerse themselves in the modern yet traditional lifestyle of the Hanoians. Hoan Kiem Walking Street has turned this area into a large performing stage and a live museum, where the public can enjoy various forms of arts and connect with the community.

thuongEvery season, Hoan Kiem Lake puts on a different charm. In spring, the lake is gentle with bright green buds, brilliantly blooming cherry blossoms, and Bauhinian flowers, spreading the festive spirits far and wide. In summer, Gươm Lake becomes an ideal hideout from the heat, with rows of ancient trees casting cooling shadows on the water, and sunlight brightening the scarlet color of Thê Húc Bridge. It is also fair to say that Gươm Lake looks its best in autumn, adorned by soft golden sunlight, fallen golden leaves, and a calm lake surface, all of which evoke a sense of romance and nostalgia. In winter, Gươm Lake is submerged in early-morning mist, creating a quiet beauty. The blurry sight of Rùa Tower in the mist is truly a mystical inkwash painting.

thuongSurrounding Hoan Kiem Lake is typical architectural works from different historical periods, from the ancient structure of Ngoc Son Temple to Hanoi Post Office with classical French style, with the addition of modern shopping centers. This combination expands the purposes of Gươm Lake: not only a sightseeing site, but also a bustling center for shopping, service, and tourism. More than a scenic spot, Hanoi is a valuable heritage, closely linked to the Vietnamese spirit.

thuongFor centuries, Hoan Kiem Lake has been the habitat of Hoàn Kiếm turtle species (also known as giant softshell turtles). The presence of the ancient Turtle is considered the incarnation of the Sacred Turtle in the legend, enhancing the lake's sacredness. Although the last known individual of the ancient Turtle has passed away, the story and the figure of the ancient Turtle will always be an indispensable part of Hanoians' memory and spiritual world, symbolizing the longevity of history.

thuongWith a peaceful charm and profound legendary myth, Hoan Kiem Lake has become an endless source of inspiration for poetry, music, and arts. Numerous literary works and well-known songs have arisen from the emotions stirred by the sight of Gươm Lake, singing its praises and celebrating its historical significance. Gươm Lake is a silent witness to historical ups and downs, from the resistance days to the new eras. Hoan Kiem Lake deserves to be “the heart” of Hanoi, a perfectly harmonious blend of poetic natural beauty and cultural depth. Through the passage of time, Gươm Lake still retains its special attraction, being a rendezvous for love, memories, and peace amidst the bustling city. Coming to Hanoi, it is a must to visit Hoan Kiem Lake and fully take in the thousand-year-old civilization of the Capital./.