Hoan Kiem Lake is to Hanoi what Central Park is to New York City. It is a focal point for people to meet and what makes the city such a joy to live in. Early mornings is best for a visit as Hanoians come out early to jog, do traditional stretching excercises and play badminton of all things. The name of the lake means "Lake of the Restored Sword" and comes from the legend about such a magical sword given the local Emperor to drive the Chinese out of Vietnam. After the war, a giant golden tortoise snatched the sword from him while he was out fishing and took it to the depths of the beautiful lake. The Tortoise Tower lays scenically on a center island of the Hoan Kiem lake. There are still enormous sized turtles there today, but seen rarely. Link to the story of the Tortoise Tower.
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