Turtle Tower

Overview

Nestled serenely on a small islet in the heart of Hoan Kiem Lake, Turtle Tower, known locally as Tháp Rùa, stands as an iconic and enduring symbol of Hanoi, Vietnam. This humble yet historically rich structure captures the essence of the city's spirit, blending natural beauty with profound cultural narratives. While visitors cannot enter the tower itself, its graceful presence is a focal point for locals and travelers alike, offering a glimpse into Vietnam's rich heritage and enduring legends. Surrounded by the calm waters of the 'Lake of the Returned Sword,' the tower embodies peace, resilience, and national pride, making it an indispensable part of any visit to Vietnam's bustling capital.

History & Cultural Background

The history of Turtle Tower is deeply intertwined with one of Vietnam's most cherished legends: that of Emperor Le Loi and the magic sword. In the 15th century, during Vietnam's struggle against Chinese Ming invaders, legend says that Le Loi was given a divine sword, 'Heaven's Will,' by the Golden Turtle God (Kim Quy) to lead his people to victory. After successfully repelling the invaders, Le Loi was boating on what was then called Luc Thuy (Green Water) Lake when the Golden Turtle God emerged, requesting the return of the sacred weapon. Le Loi honored the request, and the lake was henceforth known as Hoan Kiem Lake, meaning 'Lake of the Returned Sword.'

Centuries later, in 1886, during French colonial rule, Turtle Tower was constructed on the islet. It was built by a Vietnamese mandarin named Nguyen Ngoc Kim (also known as Nguyen Huu Kim or Ba Ho Kim). While officially erected to commemorate Emperor Le Loi and express Vietnamese patriotism during a period of foreign occupation, there's also a lesser-known tale. Nguyen Ngoc Kim secretly intended to bury his father's remains on the islet for good feng shui, though this plan was discovered and his father's body removed before it could be fully realized. Despite this personal subplot, the tower quickly became, and remains, a powerful emblem of Vietnamese independence and resilience.

What Makes It Special

What sets Turtle Tower apart is its unique blend of architectural styles and its profound symbolic weight. The tower exhibits a fascinating fusion of traditional Vietnamese design and European influence, a reflection of the period in which it was built. Its lower levels showcase a distinctly Vietnamese aesthetic with a rectangular base and graceful, upward-curving eaves. As one's gaze moves upward, the architectural elements subtly shift, revealing touches of French colonial design.

Beyond its physical form, Turtle Tower is special because it acts as a tangible link to Vietnam's mythological past and its enduring spirit of independence. It stands as a constant reminder of the legend of the returned sword, symbolizing wisdom, peace, and the Vietnamese people's ability to reclaim their sovereignty. The tower's placement in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake, a bustling urban oasis, makes it a serene and striking contrast to the surrounding city, drawing the eye and inviting contemplation.

Stories, Fun Facts & Local Details

• The Golden Turtle God: In Vietnamese culture, the turtle is one of the Four Sacred Animals (alongside the Dragon, Unicorn, and Phoenix), revered for symbolizing longevity, luck, and peace. The mythical Golden Turtle God, Kim Quy, is central to the lake's founding legend.
• Architectural Layers: The tower's three stories gradually narrow towards the top. The top floor once featured a single round window on its eastern face and was inscribed with 'Quy Son Tháp,' meaning 'Turtle Mountain Tower.' The ground and first floors possess three doors on their eastern and western sides, and two doors on their northern and southern sides.
• A Temporary 'Statue of Liberty': In a curious historical footnote, the French briefly placed a miniature replica of the Statue of Liberty atop the tower in 1890. This symbol of Western liberty was removed in 1945 after the Japanese occupation and the subsequent Vietnamese government took control.
• The Real Turtles of Hoan Kiem: While the Golden Turtle is mythical, Hoan Kiem Lake was historically home to giant softshell turtles (Rafetus swinhoei), which were considered sacred manifestations of Kim Quy. A preserved specimen of one of these rare turtles is displayed nearby, further cementing the lake's spiritual connection.

Visitor Perspective

For visitors to Hanoi, Turtle Tower is primarily an external spectacle, a beautiful and poignant landmark to be admired from the shores of Hoan Kiem Lake. It serves as an anchor for the lake's tranquil ambiance, particularly during the early morning hours when locals engage in tai chi or during the evening promenades. The best way to experience the tower is to take a leisurely stroll around the lake, enjoying the picturesque views from various angles. On weekends, the streets surrounding the lake often become a pedestrian-only zone, offering an even more relaxed and immersive experience as you take in the tower's timeless beauty against the backdrop of Hanoi's vibrant life. Photography enthusiasts will find countless opportunities to capture its charm, especially at sunrise or sunset when the light casts a magical glow upon the water and the tower.