Hoan Kiem Lake is located in the heart of Hanoi. Adjacent to the Old Quarter which is developing the first community in the city. figuratively, Hoan Kiem save a very important legend. In the 15th century there was a nobleman named Le Loi who would be king Le Thai To. Le Loi led an army to expel Chinese troops from the Ming Dynasty. According to the Legend, he managed to win due to the help of the sword found in the lake while fishing. After many years in peace, King Le Thai To want to return the sword to the lake. When he reached the middle of the lake suddenly a giant tortoise appears golden. The king returns the sword and the giant tortoises disappear behind the surface of the lake. King Le Thai To change the name of the lake Luc Thuy Hoan Kiem be, which means the return of the sword. The tortoise is an important part of Vietnamese culture, which symbolizes wisdom.
Hoan Kiem Lake Turtle
But do not think giant turtle is just a myth. Hoan Kiem Lake is inhabited by giant turtles though rarely manifest themselves. Reportedly freshwater turtle in Hanoi is the greatest in the world. It is not known how many giant tortoises are still found in Hoan Kiem Lake. As a tribute in the middle of the lake was established pagoda Thap Rua turtles, which became a symbol of Hanoi City. Occurrences last giant tortoise was in 2007. Maybe if you were on the edge of Hoan Kiem Lake, the turtles will come to the surface.