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The capital of Vietnam has many beautiful historical and cultural relics aligned with the history of formation and development of ancient Thang Long Capital and Hanoi nowadays, and West Lake is one of them. The West Lake has a romantic, poetic beauty in a colorful picture of the capital, where Hanoi people meet and share their memories. Explore that story with Asia King Travel!
West Lake panorama from above. Source: Reatimes
West Lake is located in northwest Hanoi, about 11 km from the city center in Tay Ho District. The district’s name also means “West Lake” and the lake covers almost the entire area. This is the largest natural lake in the capital with a region of around 500 ha and the road surrounding it is nearly 20 km.
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Some historical documents show that the West Lake was formed thousands of years ago, it was a remaining part of the Red River’s diversion. The Lake has many names related to different historical periods such as Misty Lake (Dam Dam), Golden Buffalo Lake (Kim Nguu), Fox’s Nest… The name “Golden Buffalo” has many mysterious myths, but the common point is about a golden buffalo lying under the lake.
During the Ly Dynasty (1138), the daughter of King Ly Thanh Tong - Princess Tu Hoa left the palace and came to the lakeside area to teach people to grow mulberry and raise silkworms creating a popular region for its silk industry of Thang Long Capital.
To the Ly and Tran dynasties, kings also chose this sector to build palaces for sightseeing. In this day and age, West Lake has become one of the most beautiful tourist destinations attracting many visitors when they come to the capital.
A peaceful afternoon scenery of Tran Quoc Pagoda. Source: Cong thong tin dien tu Quan Tay Ho
West Lake has its romantic scenery in any season, so you can come here most of the time in a year. As for Hanoi, the ideal time is in autumn (from August to October). The weather is cool and relaxing, there is no rain or harsh sunlight so it will be convenient to visit many famous attractions.
Lotus flowers bloom in the summer in West Lake. Source: Saigon Travel
You can take time in the early morning or cool afternoon to walk or ride a bike in relaxing weather and admire the peaceful scenery of West Lake. You can refer to a bicycle rental service to choose a suitable bike.
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Riding bikes around West Lake is a fun activity. Source: Tap chi Du lich
SUP is a sport that attracts many youngsters. When you come to West Lake, you can experience this. If you don’t know how to sail, don’t worry, the coaches will guide you until you can control the boat yourself. Don’t forget to take some photos to capture the moments of this interesting activity.
SUP is a sport attracting the young. Source: MIA.vn
There are many cafe shops in the area surrounding West Lake. Besides outdoor activities, travelers can enjoy a nice cup of coffee with a wide view of the lake. On good weather days, you can go to lakeside cafes, have your coffee, admire the scenery of the West Lake, and chit-chat with your friends or family to feel the rhythm of the capital’s life.
This is one of the most exciting places you should visit if you come here in the summer. It is the biggest and most famous waterpark in Hanoi. There are many fun games here like bungee jumping, carpet sliding, cable car swinging… The waterpark is the best place to relax when you freely soak in cool water.
A corner of the waterpark from above. Source: MIA.vn
There are many attractions surrounding West Lake such as Tran Quoc Pagoda, Tay Ho Palace, and Quan Thanh Temple,... This is a great choice for tourists to learn more about Hanoi's ancient historical and cultural features.
The main gate of Quan Thanh Temple. Source: VinWonders
West Lake shrimp cakes have been an indispensable dish in the abundant cuisine list of Hanoi that you should try. It is made from the main ingredients of fresh shrimp and rice flour, crispy outside and soft inside. This cake gives an unforgettable taste.
Fried shrimp cakes are one of the specialties of West Lake. Source: Xanh SM
The salty sesame balls on Vong Thi Street near the West Lake area are famous for their special crispy crust outside and delicious filling inside with vermicelli, minced pork, and black fungus. This combination makes a unique taste.
Salty sesame balls, a unique flavor. Source: Ngoi sao - VnExpress
This cake is one of the most popular traditional specialties of Hanoi that you should try. It is a perfect combination of a layer of soft rice flour and minced pork mixed with black fungus and traditional spices. The cakes are wrapped in banana leaves shaped like small pyramids.
Pyramid rice dumplings are very popular in Hanoi's food list. Source: MIA.vn
When you look for a restaurant in the West Lake area, don’t miss Lotus Buffet Restaurant - the most famous buffet in Hanoi. It attracts many tourists to the menu of diverse delicious dishes and luxurious Vietnamese space.
Lotus Buffet Restaurant is a famous restaurant with various dishes in a luxury space. Source: Van phong cong chung Nguyen Hue
West Lake is surrounded by Thanh Nien, Thuy Khue, Au Co, Lac Long Quan, and Nghi Tam routes. To get to the lake and surrounding locations, you can choose many types of suitable transport such as:
West Lake - the blue pearl of Hanoi is an ideal destination for those who love peace, a poetic landscape, and diverse outdoor activities. Don’t hesitate! Contact Asia King Travel to discover this place!
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