Ngoc Son Temple — Attraction in Hà Nội

Hoan Kiem Lake attracts tourists and locals looking to get away from the noise and frenetic pace of the Hanoi city. Peaceful and quiet, the lake surrounds Ngoc Son Temple, a pagoda sitting in the centre on a small island. The temple attracts many visitors and was built in commemoration of the 13th century military leader Tran Hung Dao who was renowned for his bravery in the battle against the Yuan Dynasty. Homage is also paid to scholar Van Xuong and Confucian master Nguyen Van Sieu. The island on which the temple is built is known as Jade Island and is accessible by the iconic Huc Bridge or Rising Sun Bridge which is a charming scarlet-painted wooden bridge of classical Vietnamese design. The pagoda is also guarded by two towering posts decorated with Chinese writing. The lake and temple are probably the most famous places in Hanoi city in which to rest and enjoy the view and are a great place to sit back and watch the locals. Ngoc Son Temple was built in the 18th century on Jade Island in the centre of the ‘Lake of the Returned Sword’ or Hoan Kiem Lake. Legend describes how an emperor was once given a magical sword which helped him defeat the Chinese Ming Dynasty and in doing so saw the return of the Golden Turtle God to the lake. Today ‘Turtle Tower’ stands close to the lake in memory of this legend. There are also endangered large soft-shell turtles swimming in the lake, and to see one of these gentle giants is considered very auspicious. The name of the temple translates to ‘Temple of the Jade Mountain’ and is predominately dedicated to war hero General Tran Hung Dao who defeated an armed force of 300,000 soldiers sent by Mongolian Emperor Kublai Khan in the 13th century to...

As I crossed the iconic Huc Bridge and approached Ngoc Son Temple, I felt a sense of reverence wash over me. Situated on a small island in the picturesque Hoan Kiem Lake, the temple seemed to exude an aura of tranquility and spirituality.

Stepping through the entrance gate, I was greeted by the sight of ancient trees, serene courtyards, and ornate pagodas. The scent of burning incense lingered in the air, mingling with the soft sound of chanting from nearby worshipers.

Making my way through the temple complex, I marveled at the intricate details of the architecture and the centuries-old artifacts on display. Each corner seemed to hold a piece of history, telling the stories of generations past and the cultural heritage of Vietnam.

Reaching the heart of Ngoc Son Temple, I stood before the altar, offering my respects to the deities and ancestors honored within. The flickering candlelight cast a warm glow over the sacred space, filling me with a sense of peace and reverence.

As I wandered around the temple, I couldn't help but recall the legendary tale of the revered turtles of Hoan Kiem Lake. According to local folklore, the lake was once home to a giant turtle known as "Cu Rua," which was said to be over six centuries old. Cu Rua was considered a symbol of longevity, wisdom, and good fortune for the Vietnamese people.

Leaving the temple grounds, I felt a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to experience such a sacred place and to reflect on the rich history and cultural significance of Ngoc Son Temple and the legendary turtles of...

During my visit to Hanoi in February, I had the pleasure of exploring Ngoc Son Temple, a beautiful gem nestled on a small island in Hoan Kiem Lake. From the moment I stepped onto the iconic red bridge leading to the temple, I was enchanted by its serene and mystical atmosphere. The temple's architecture, with its vibrant colors and intricate details, was a sight to behold. Inside the temple, I discovered stunning altars adorned with statues and offerings. The scent of incense filled the air, creating a sense of tranquility and spirituality. The soft glow of natural light filtering through the windows added to the ethereal ambiance. The temple's location on the lake gave it a unique and picturesque setting. As I looked out from the temple's balcony, I was treated to a breathtaking view of the lake and surrounding area. It was a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. One of the highlights of my visit was learning about the temple's history and legends. The story of the giant turtle and the magical sword was captivating and added to the temple's allure. Visiting Ngoc Son Temple in February was a wonderful experience. The weather was pleasant, and the lack of crowds allowed me to fully appreciate the tranquil beauty of the temple. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or simply seeking a moment of calm, Ngoc Son Temple is a must-visit destination in Hanoi to taste the...