The Turtle Tower - Old Quarter in Hanoi

The Turtle Tower - Old Quarter in Hanoi

Hanoi, Vietnam

The Turtle Tower is rising on a small island in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Walking around this lake is a popular activity among tourists and locals. The lake is surrounded by a small park with benches and vegetation that provides shade to visitors. You will enjoy a beautiful view of the tower and Ngoc Son Temple, particularly at sunset and night when the lights hit the monuments.

It was constructed in 1886, and it has a unique architectural design, with a square base and hexagonal upper levels, resembling a turtle shell. The tower is made of brick and is adorned with decorative details, including dragons and phoenixes, two of the four sacred animals of Vietnam.

According to a popular legend, the Vietnamese emperor Le Loi was given a magical sword by the Golden Turtle God, which he used to defeat Chinese invaders and regain Vietnam’s independence in the 15th century. The legend says that the emperor then returned the blade to the turtle divinity, where the tower stands today.

Apart from the views, you can't get into the tower or reach the island. It's a bustling area, with street markets and local events at night.

If you are around the area, you can’t miss the water puppets shows, it’s next to it!

It's a typical sight in Hanoi, but there isn't much to do.