A Gentle Morning at The Note Coffee
After breakfast at The Note Coffee at eight, we stepped back into the street with warm cups and light hearts. The café was small and inviting, its walls covered from floor to ceiling with handwritten notes from visitors around the world. Cozy and calm, it was the perfect way to ease into the day.
Beginning Our Walk Around Hoan Kiem Lake
We crossed the road and began our anticlockwise walk around Hoan Kiem Lake. Hanoi was already fully awake, yet the space beside the water felt softer and slower. The lake rested quietly at the city’s center, like a deep breath in the middle of movement. Morning light shimmered on the surface, and the air was cool and fresh.
Flowers and Care Along the Path
Neatly arranged flower beds lined the walkway, clearly well cared for, with signs showing they were planted by a local bank. Reds, yellows, pinks, and whites stood out against rich green leaves. Some flowers were low and rounded, others tall and delicate. Together, they formed gentle patterns that brightened every step of the walk.
Sounds of a Living Lake
The lake had its own soundtrack. Birds called from the trees, water lapped softly at the edge, and footsteps passed nearby. Quiet conversations drifted through the air. Beyond it all was the low hum of traffic—present, but distant. The atmosphere was calm, yet full of life.
Joyful Movement by the Water
One of the happiest sights was a group of elderly ladies dancing by the lake. They moved together in an open space, following lively Latin music from a small speaker. Their steps were simple but energetic. Some smiled, some laughed, others focused intently on the beat. They came to exercise, to stay fit—but just as clearly, to enjoy companionship and joy. Their music brought warmth and energy to the peaceful morning.
The Legend of the Returned Sword
As we walked, we reflected on the legend behind the lake’s name. Emperor Lê Lợi, according to the story, was given a divine sword that helped him defeat foreign invaders. After peace was restored, a giant golden turtle rose from the lake and asked for the sword’s return. Understanding the message, the emperor handed it back. The turtle vanished beneath the water, and the lake became known as Hoan Kiem—“Returned Sword.” Knowing this story added depth and meaning to the place.
Crossing Thê Húc Bridge to Ngọc Sơn Temple
By the end of our stroll, we reached Ngọc Sơn Temple on Jade Island. We crossed the red Thê Húc Bridge, its bold color striking against the green water and trees. It felt like a quiet transition—from the busy city into a more reflective space.
Inside Ngọc Sơn Temple
We paid the entrance fee of VND50,000 (≈ MYR8/USD2/EUR2) and stepped inside. The air was calm and reverent, scented softly with incense. We moved slowly, reading signs and observing the details. The temple honored scholars, national heroes, and spiritual figures, reflecting Vietnamese values of learning, wisdom, and balance. Weathered wood, curved roofs, and carved characters gave the space a sense of age and dignity. From within, the city felt distant, framed peacefully across the lake.
Pausing to Plan the Rest of the Day
After leaving the temple and completing our circuit of the lake, we stopped by the Hanoi City Tour double decker bus to collect a brochure. We stood there for a moment, reading and considering our next steps. It felt like a natural pause—time to reflect, plan, and decide where the day would lead next.
A Quiet Beginning to the Day
That morning at Hoan Kiem Lake invited us to slow down and truly observe. From warm coffee and handwritten notes to gentle walks, music, legend, and shared moments, everything flowed effortlessly. The lake offered more than scenery—it offered calm, connection, and a sense of place. As we returned to the rhythm of Hanoi, we carried the softness of the morning with us, feeling the day had begun exactly as it should.
Please refer to our previous video of what we were up to next.
Do visit our YouTube Channel Have Perut Will Travel)
📍 Location:
Hoàn Kiếm Lake - https://maps.app.goo.gl/S4FDcqDmq5RuHzU97
Ngoc Son Temple - https://maps.app.goo.gl/aaoacoWAxLnw8AQ3A
No comments:
Post a Comment