Hoan Kiem Lake is a hub of activity near the old quarter and functions both as a symbolic and geographic heart of Hanoi.
At the northern end of the lake the Huc Bridge is a well known landmark. It crosses to Jade Island, containing the small but atmospheric Temple of the Jade Mountain.
Temple of the Jade Mountain.
Temple of the Jade Mountain.
The lake, just 700 metres long, is a great safety valve right in the centre of Hanoi to escape the frenetic traffic and pace of life.
However, it has its own quite intense activity level, especially early morning as people exercise, dance, play badminton, walk, jog, fish ... Here, dancing to the Beatles' Obladi Oblada, which at one time would have been seen as a symbol of western decadence. Times change.
More early morning dancing.
And still more. People bring portable speakers and there's quite a lot of noise in some areas by the lake.
Early morning stretch.
Keeping the gardens beautiful.
I am reasonably confident I didn't transgress any of the Point 4s in the Should Nots. And I promise I didn't release any dangerous animals.
There's a complex legend behind the lake going back to the 15th century, to do with a tortoise and a sword used to fight off Chinese invaders. Hoan Kiem Lake means Lake of the Returned Sword. The small island here is Turtle Island with its Turtle Tower. I still say they're tortoises.
Activities continue into the night. I find it striking how little inhibition is shown around the lake.
I think if I lived in Hanoi I'd be a morning regular on this park bench.
#10 - last point should become an international law!