Self-Guided Walking Tour of Hanoi’s Hoàn Kiếm Lake

5.0 (3 reviews) 50 min – 1 h 10 min Free cancellation Private tour

out of 5

3 reviews

5.0

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Hanoi’s Hoàn Kiếm Lake — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

Self-Guided Walking Tour of Hanoi’s Hoàn Kiếm Lake, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Experience the magic of GPS playback on this immersive stroll through Hanoi. On this self-guided tour, you'll explore myths and legends surrounding the lake where a giant turtle god lives.

This tour will take you around Hanoi’s Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Tour producer Joshua Zukas has woven the mythological and historical together to help you peel back the layers of the city’s millennium-long history.

On the tour, Joshua will tell you about the dragon that supposedly swooped overhead in approval when the emperor moved the imperial capital here. You’ll hear the legend of the lake reclaiming a divine sabre that repelled northern invaders and learn about the herd of mythical beasts that have made their home close to its waters.

By the end of this tour, you’ll have a deeper appreciation of this layered city. You’ll also have the tools to explore independently after the tour – from identifying which alleyway you want to explore to knowing where to have your next meal or coffee.

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Audio Guides Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours New Product Short term availability

At a glance

Duration: 50 min – 1 h 10 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Audio guide: English
Written guide: English
Operated by: VoiceMap Audio Tours

Ages: Adults (6–97 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Get unlimited, lifetime use of this tour, before your booking date and after it
Included: The virtual playback option, so you can listen to this tour like an audiobook from anywhere
Included: Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata
Included: Flexibility to explore at your own pace with a self-guided GPS tour
Included: Directions to the starting point so that when you’re in the right place, the tour will start

Not included

Not included: Please bring your own smartphone and headphones
Not included: Tickets to any optional attractions and sites en route
Not included: Food and drink
Not included: Smartphones and headphones

Itinerary

Stop 1

Passing by

Begin at this statue commemorating Emperor Lý Thái Tổ, who founded the Lý Dynasty and moved the capital to Hanoi. Hear the tale of the dragon that flew over his court in approval, symbolizing a prosperous future.
Stop 2

Passing by

Stroll along the banks of this iconic lake, the heart of Hanoi. Discover the significance of its name, which means "Lake of the Returned Sword," tied to the legend of Emperor Lê Lợi.
Hoa Phong Tower

Passing by

Pass by the remnants of Hoa Phong Tower, the last standing piece of the once-grand Báo Ân Pagoda, demolished by the French in the 19th century. Reflect on the cultural losses during the colonial era.
Stop 4

Passing by

Take a quick break at this popular spot to sample traditional bún đậu mắm tôm (tofu with fermented shrimp paste). Experience local flavors that are an integral part of Hanoi's culinary heritage.
Stop 5

Passing by

Visit Vu Thach Pagoda, a serene and lesser-known temple. Learn about the role of pagodas in Vietnamese religious and cultural life, distinguishing them from other religious buildings.
Stop 6

Passing by

Walk past T.U.N.G Dining, a modern and innovative restaurant. Understand how contemporary Vietnamese cuisine is evolving, blending traditional flavors with modern techniques.
Stop 7

Passing by

See the National Library of Vietnam, a symbol of knowledge and cultural preservation. Consider the library’s role in educating and shaping modern Vietnamese society.
St. Joseph's Cathedral

Passing by

Marvel at the neo-gothic architecture of St. Joseph Cathedral, built by the French in the late 19th century. Delve into the history of Christianity in Vietnam and its cultural impact.
Stop 9

Passing by

Stop by Bánh Cuốn Bà Hoành for a taste of bánh cuốn, delicate steamed rice rolls filled with savory ingredients. Enjoy another facet of Hanoi’s vibrant food scene.
Dền Ngọc Son

Passing by

Cross the iconic red Welcoming Morning Sunlight Bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, located on a small island in Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Explore the temple dedicated to General Trần Hưng Đạo, who defeated the Mongols, and to the scholars and deities who protect the city.
Stop 11

Passing by

Learn more about the legendary military strategist Trần Hưng Đạo, celebrated for his victories against Kublai Khan’s invasions, and his enduring legacy in Vietnamese history.
Stop 12

Passing by

Take a moment to relax at Cafe Dinh, a cozy spot offering traditional Vietnamese egg coffee. Savor this unique beverage while enjoying views of the bustling city.
Stop 13

Passing by

Walk across this picturesque bridge, a symbol of peace and tranquility. Appreciate its role in connecting visitors to the sacred Ngoc Son Temple.
Stop 14

Passing by

Visit the Tượng Đài Quyết Tử (Martyrs’ Monument), commemorating those who sacrificed their lives for the independence of Vietnam. Reflect on the country's turbulent history and the resilience of its people.
Stop 15

Passing by

Conclude your tour at The Pen Tower, an iconic structure that symbolizes the importance of literature and education in Vietnamese culture. Learn about its historical significance and admire its unique architecture.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

The tour begins at the Lý Thái Tổ Statue, which sits in a park on Hoàn Kiếm Lake. Make sure you're facing the front of the statue when you start the tour with the lake behind you.

End point

The tour ends at The Pen Tower.

Using your ticket

Ticket

VOICEMAP CODE

───

Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

───

1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

3. Create an account

4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE

───

You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

───

For technical support and other queries, please email [email protected]