Đền Ngọc Sơn
Đền Ngọc Sơn
4
7:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Monday
7:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Tuesday
7:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Wednesday
7:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Thursday
7:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Friday
7:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Saturday
7:00 AM - 7:30 PM
Sunday
7:00 AM - 7:30 PM
About
This temple alongside Lake Hoan Kiem was built in the 19th century, and named after Saint Van Xuong. Confucian scholar Nguyen Van Sieu had a large pen-shaped tower built at the entrance of the temple in 1864, featuring three Chinese characters, Ta Thanh Thien, which literally means "to write on the blue sky is to imply the height of a genuine and righteous person's determination and will."
Duration: 1-2 hours
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- Angeles EchevarriaBilbao, Spain2,149 contributionsIt is an island inside the lake in the center of the ancient cityIt was next to our hotel so we visited it at night and day with the guide. There are two turtles important to the city that lived there in the lake and that symbolize longevity. For centuries there were turtles but now there are no more It is a place of worship for the Vietnamese And above all, a place where young people go to take photos.Visited January 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 4, 2024
- Livsnyderen2014Frederiksvaerk, Denmark638 contributionsAn oasis in the middle of the cityIf you want to get away from the noise and traffic in the surrounding streets, the lake in the middle of the city is the perfect place to take a 'break' in the city tour. On a small island in the middle of the lake is the Ngoc Son Temple, and via the famous red bridge, you are led out to the temple, where the silence and tranquility sinks into your soul. When darkness falls over the city, the bridge is illuminated in red colors, while the temple is illuminated in yellow colors. A beautiful sight in the evening picture. Around the lake there is a lively life from morning to evening with joggers, dancers, exercisers of all kinds and lots of people playing, dancing and enjoying themselves. Fantastic place where cafes and food places are located side by side. If you want a trip to the temple, a ticket costs approx. 1.5 euro or dollar. The amount is used for the maintenance of the temple.Visited November 2023Traveled with friendsWritten March 6, 2024
- InnaNha Trang, Vietnam55 contributionsRed Bridge and Holy PlaceNgoc Son Temple 🛕is located on Ngoc Island in Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi. It is also a special national monument of Vietnam. The temple is dedicated to the warlord Tran Hung Dao (one of Vietnam's 14 national heroes), who repelled two of the three major Mongol invasions in the late 13th century. The island is called Jade Island and is connected to the shore by the red Morning Sunlight Bridge. It was very crowded here, calm music was playing, and the red lighting of the bridge conveyed an unusual atmosphere. Entrance to the temple is paid, but not expensive. I advise you to come here several times - during the day and in the evening. You can take very atmospheric and beautiful photos as a keepsake.Visited January 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten March 25, 2024
- Higuma 2017Australia1,201 contributionsTry to figure that out.This is all about the turtle(s). And worthwhile the visit. A rather average, but reasonably cute temple, displaying two dead turtles, quite massive, to be honest. These poor creatures used to live at the bottom of that lake in the middle of Hanoi. Their kind is gone, forever. Their stories can be found on the wall, available in English. Although Vietnamese scholars like to classify them as a unique local species, they are part of the Yangtze Giant Softshell Turtle species... which does not make the whole survival of the species any more bright, as there are only two known individuals alive in the whole planet - both males. Back to the temple, displayed in each of the two glass boxes, there is an item, quite unrecognisable. Looks like a clawed hand. In one of them there is an explanation that suggests it's the reproductive apparel. Check that and try to figure it out... If those two specimens on display were indeed males and those things are what is suggested, no wonder all the females are dead and the species is functionally extinct.Visited April 2024Traveled soloWritten April 4, 2024
- Shelley MAlbany, New Zealand916 contributionsViews are niceThe bridge is lovely all lit up at night and we couldn't help wanting to cross it and see what the temple was like on the other side. Not a lot there to be fair and the turtles were not there when we visited. Nice to see a different perspective of the lake and it is a nice area of Hanoi but not a lot to see. I would visit just for the views.Visited February 2024Traveled with familyWritten April 15, 2024
- mfilcol2014Lisbon, Portugal2,034 contributionsOnly for locationTemple located in the middle of the lake with access via a highly photogenic bridge. It's worth visiting just for its location. The temple itself is very small and of no great interest Interesting views from the temple to the lake and the city of Hanoi It's not really worth itVisited March 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten April 26, 2024
- Your Travel Buddy SGSingapore, Singapore31,740 contributionsA piece of historyI believe this is one of the most visited tourist spot in Hanoi. Of course, we needed to visit it due to its popularity. One has to pay a fee and cross the bridge which was very scenic to get to the island. There was some legends about how this place was said to have came about. Two real models of the turtles which were previously living in the lake were on display here. Apparently they managed to preserved the bodies after they had passed on. Pretty interesting though.Visited June 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten June 16, 2024
- OHKSOHyogo Prefecture, Japan111,316 contributionsInside Hoan Kiem LakeIt was a temple standing in Hoan Kiem Lake. When I was walking around the perimeter of the lake, I went to the precinct as one of the Things to do. If you cross the Teh Phuc Bridge to the "island", you will find a ticket box where you had to pay VND 50,000. After visiting the shrine, we were surprised at the size of the corner adjacent to the shrine where giant stuffed soft-shelled turtles are on display. Incidentally, kanji characters are written around the shrine, making it possible to recognize that it was once a kanji area.Visited July 2024Traveled as a coupleWritten July 25, 2024
- sweetpearl88Singapore304 contributionsBeauty of Ngoc Son TempleBeautiful Ngoc Son Temple is a famous attraction in Hanoi, which features traditional architecture and the spiritual life of Vietnamese people. It is a serene place to admire the beauty of Hoan Kiem Lake. There are the preserved bodies of 2 big turtles that once lived in Hoan Kiem Lake. They are placed inside glass boxes for preservation and reverence. These turtles hold significant cultural and historical importance in Vietnam, particularly in relation to the legend of the lake's mystical turtle. According to folklore, a magical turtle surfaced from the lake and returned a mythical sword to Emperor Le Loi, who led Vietnamese forces against invaders! Very interesting historical site indeed.Visited October 2024Traveled soloWritten October 27, 2024
- BTS1972Munich, Germany3,743 contributionsNice Temple in the Middle of HanoiA nice temple celebrating a Vietnamese general who fought the Chinese in the Middle Ages. The buildings and figurines are very fine as is the architecture. The temple is surronded by a lake and accesible via a nice bridge. One of the must sees in Hanoi.Visited November 2024Traveled with friendsWritten November 25, 2024
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dennisalexandrov1976
Moscow, Russia4,771 contributions
Dec 2024 • Business
There's a small lake on which there's an island, there's a temple on it, a bridge leads to it, and in the middle of Lake Turtle Tower. What's not a beautiful combination? We took a great walk around the lake, visited the temple, learned the interesting history of turtles, generally touched on the history of Vietnam, the history of Hanoi. I think it's absolutely necessary to visit this place. And it's hard to write a lot, because you have to see it and learn about it yourself.
Automatically translated
Written January 31, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Liliane M
Buger, Spain658 contributions
Jan 2025 • Solo
The temple is located on the island of HOAN KIEM Lake which means restituted sword lake.
Two turtles said to have lived in the lake are depicted. It's a symbol of longevity.
Legend has it that the turtle protects the temple place of worship for the Vietnamese.
The legend of the sword turtle is interesting.
To access the temple, you have to cross the red bridge another symbol of Hanoi city.
I recommend your visit and read your legend.
Two turtles said to have lived in the lake are depicted. It's a symbol of longevity.
Legend has it that the turtle protects the temple place of worship for the Vietnamese.
The legend of the sword turtle is interesting.
To access the temple, you have to cross the red bridge another symbol of Hanoi city.
I recommend your visit and read your legend.
Automatically translated
Written February 4, 2025
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
OneTrip with local
Hanoi, Vietnam270 contributions
Mar 2023 • Solo
The temple has beautiful bonsai trees and a peaceful lake nearby. You can relax and reflect here. There are also old things to see, like a giant turtle that has been in the lake for many years. You can visit until 6 PM every day. A student ticket costs 15,000 VND and an adult ticket costs 30,000 VND. However, it can be very busy with lots of tourists and locals on the weekends.
Written March 13, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dinh Trung-Tin
Toulouse, France635 contributions
Sep 2023 • Family
My visit to Ngoc Son Temple in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi was a memorable experience despite the crowds of tourists. This temple offers a fascinating insight into Vietnamese history and culture, and there are less crowded corners worth exploring.
The temple itself is an architectural gem, with its glazed tile roofs, detailed carvings and elegant pagodas. The view of the lake from the Huc Bridge that leads to the temple is breathtaking, creating an atmosphere of serenity even among the crowds of visitors.
One of the disadvantages of this place is indeed the tourist crowds, especially during peak hours. However, I found that as I explored the back part of the temple, there were fewer people and a more peaceful ambiance. This allowed me to better appreciate the spirituality of the place and take wonderful photos without the crowds.
The history and cultural significance of Ngoc Son Temple is fascinating, and there are informative signs that provide interesting details. I also enjoyed the collection of historical artifacts on display in the temple.
The temple itself is an architectural gem, with its glazed tile roofs, detailed carvings and elegant pagodas. The view of the lake from the Huc Bridge that leads to the temple is breathtaking, creating an atmosphere of serenity even among the crowds of visitors.
One of the disadvantages of this place is indeed the tourist crowds, especially during peak hours. However, I found that as I explored the back part of the temple, there were fewer people and a more peaceful ambiance. This allowed me to better appreciate the spirituality of the place and take wonderful photos without the crowds.
The history and cultural significance of Ngoc Son Temple is fascinating, and there are informative signs that provide interesting details. I also enjoyed the collection of historical artifacts on display in the temple.

Written September 26, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Luv2Go56
Nashville, TN443 contributions
Nov 2022
We were strolling around Hoan Kiem Lake and decided to get off the beaten path to tour the Ngoc Son Temple. There is a small entrance fee, and it is important to be respectful, and dress appropriately as it is an active place of worship.
It is a very quick stroll around the temple. Highlights include the stunning red bridge, the impressive pagoda, and the beautiful varied foliage. It was also fun to see Hanoi Old Town and the lake from this vantage point. Very serene and tranquil.
It is a very quick stroll around the temple. Highlights include the stunning red bridge, the impressive pagoda, and the beautiful varied foliage. It was also fun to see Hanoi Old Town and the lake from this vantage point. Very serene and tranquil.
Written March 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BrakiWorldTraveler
Belgrade, Serbia20,037 contributions
Jan 2024 • Family
Ngoc Son Temple is located on a small island on Hoan Kiem Lake in the very center of Hanoi. It's reachable via a small picturesque bridge paying a small fee.
Temple is quite ordinary, like many others we saw all over Vietnam, however its position on the lake is so beautiful and that's the reason it's so popular.
Come at night as well, when it's beautifully illuminated.
Temple is quite ordinary, like many others we saw all over Vietnam, however its position on the lake is so beautiful and that's the reason it's so popular.
Come at night as well, when it's beautifully illuminated.
Written February 11, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
LSQRD1
Kent, OH898 contributions
Dec 2024 • Friends
This is an interesting and lovely temple on one of the lakes in Hanoi. It has great importance as it relates to the turtle pavilion in the lake and houses the preserved bodies of the last two great turtles that lived here. The story itself is fascinating and to see it in real life was very interesting.
Written December 22, 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
TheLeongOhana
United States7,745 contributions
Jul 2022 • Solo
This was one of the most popular attractions the day I walked around Sword Lake.
Entrance fee was only 30k VND so a bargain.
So many people were taking photos on the bridge that it required a little weaving around. At night the bridge was framed in red lights so a popular photo opportunity.
Once on the other side, I turned left and walked to the edge of the island. It was a popular spot for people to hang out as there was a lot of seating under the pagoda and facing the lake.
Entering the temple on the left side were the famous Ho Guom Turtle models and a little story on their claim for fame. I thought they were the most interesting item inside the temple.
Entrance fee was only 30k VND so a bargain.
So many people were taking photos on the bridge that it required a little weaving around. At night the bridge was framed in red lights so a popular photo opportunity.
Once on the other side, I turned left and walked to the edge of the island. It was a popular spot for people to hang out as there was a lot of seating under the pagoda and facing the lake.
Entering the temple on the left side were the famous Ho Guom Turtle models and a little story on their claim for fame. I thought they were the most interesting item inside the temple.
Written July 13, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
loonylou78
West Sussex, UK330 contributions
Sep 2023 • Couples
This was such a fantastic temple to visit. It was our first Vietnamese temple we visited during our recent travels. Situated on Hoan kiem lake it provided a little bit of peace and quiet away from the craziness of the old quarter! Costing less than £1 to get in ,the place is stunning. Lots of artwork at the entrance and a bridge to walk over. The temple itself is small but so colourful and well maintained, you can take pictures from the outside but not inside, but trust me it's beautiful.
Also inside the grounds is a small room which features 2 lake turtles which are believed to be the last ones ever to come from the lake and they help to keep the story of the lake turtles and the magical sword alive ( the lake which the temple stands is also known as sword lake). Please visit when you're in Hanoi even if for a short while.
Also inside the grounds is a small room which features 2 lake turtles which are believed to be the last ones ever to come from the lake and they help to keep the story of the lake turtles and the magical sword alive ( the lake which the temple stands is also known as sword lake). Please visit when you're in Hanoi even if for a short while.
Written October 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Roger W
Siebnen, Switzerland1,882 contributions
Nov 2023 • Couples
This temple is certainly unique due to its location in Hoan Kiem Lake. It can be reached via a beautiful bridge. There is a typical temple on the island itself. It is certainly worth seeing due to its location, and it is also located in the old town of Hanoi.

Written December 5, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tú Cao
Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
Đền này có thân thiện, lỗi đi cho người khuyết tật không ạ?
Written March 4, 2022
si quiere visitar a hanoi?????, el lago espalda, el mausoleo de Hcm, el templo de la literatura,la pagoda de tran quoc, contame ,yo sé hablar español.yo puedo ayudarte. gratis
Written November 7, 2016
Will be visiting Vietnam next month just going thru the tour itinery to get familiar with the places.
Written March 2, 2015
Hi octapus.
Can you give more details on the cities you will be visiting and maybe our responses can be more helpful and detailed so you will be sure to see all the highlights of the area you will visit?
Written March 2, 2015
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