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Visiting Hanoi? Don’t miss Ngoc Son Temple, perched beautifully on Hoan Kiem Lake. Our 2025 guide covers everything you need—entrance fees, opening hours, dress tips, and the intriguing legend of the sacred turtle.
Right in the heart of Hanoi, a striking red bridge stretches across the calm waters of Hoan Kiem Lake, beckoning visitors to step away from the city’s lively streets and enter a serene world steeped in history. This is the gateway to Ngoc Son Temple Hanoi, also known as the "Temple of the Jade Mountain," a charming sanctuary that has captured the hearts of locals and travelers alike.
If you’re planning a visit during the pleasant, mild days of early autumn 2025, this temple is a stop you simply can’t miss. In this guide, we’ll take you through everything you need to know—its fascinating legends, practical details like entrance fees and opening hours, and the highlights waiting for you inside—so you can make the most of your visit to one of Hanoi’s most iconic treasures.
Visiting Ngoc Son Temple Hanoi is about more than simply stepping inside its walls—it’s an experience that begins the moment you approach it. Every element along the way is designed to prepare you for the history, legend, and spirituality that awaits.
One of the most iconic sights in Hanoi, the Huc Bridge immediately catches your eye with its vivid red hue and graceful wooden construction. As you walk across, the bridge feels almost like a passage through time, gently guiding you away from the bustling city and into a quiet, reflective space. It’s more than just a way to get to the temple—it’s a symbolic journey, representing the crossing from the everyday world into a place of sacred beauty and calm. Pause for a moment to admire the reflections in the lake and the view of Hoan Kiem Lake all around—it’s a perfect photo opportunity and a moment to soak in the temple’s serene atmosphere.
Before reaching the bridge, visitors pass through the stone gate complex, crowned by the elegant Pen Tower. This architectural feature is steeped in meaning: the Pen Tower is said to “write on the clear sky,” symbolizing knowledge, wisdom, and the cultural reverence for learning in Vietnamese tradition. Pausing here allows you to reflect on the deeper cultural layers of the temple and sets the tone for the historical and spiritual treasures you are about to discover inside.
Crossing the Huc Bridge and passing under the Pen Tower is not just about arriving—it’s about beginning a journey that combines art, legend, and history, all in one unforgettable approach to Hanoi’s beloved Ngoc Son Temple.
Once you’ve crossed the Huc Bridge and entered through the Pen Tower, it’s time to explore the heart of Ngoc Son Temple Hanoi—a peaceful sanctuary tucked in the middle of Hoan Kiem Lake. Stepping inside feels like entering a living storybook, where every hall, altar, and artifact tells a tale of history, culture, and legend.
The temple’s central halls are a feast for the eyes and the senses. Richly decorated altars are adorned with offerings and surrounded by the warm glow of flickering incense. Here, visitors pay homage to historical figures who shaped Vietnam, like Tran Hung Dao, the revered 13th-century military hero known for defending the nation, and Van Xuong, a scholar celebrated for his wisdom. The serene atmosphere encourages reflection, and even a brief moment of quiet lets you feel connected to centuries of Vietnamese tradition. Every corner of the hall is an invitation to pause, admire, and soak in the spiritual significance of this special place.
No visit is complete without seeing the temple’s most famous resident—the giant soft-shell turtle, preserved in a glass case for all to marvel at. This remarkable creature isn’t just a curiosity; it’s a living link to the legendary Golden Turtle God, who is said to have reclaimed a sacred sword from Hoan Kiem Lake to protect the nation. The turtle’s presence reminds visitors of Hanoi’s rich tapestry of myth and reality, connecting the stories you’ve heard on the lake with tangible history inside the temple. It’s a highlight that fascinates both children and adults alike, offering a perfect photo opportunity and a deeper appreciation of Vietnam’s cultural heritage.
Walking through the temple, from the main halls to the turtle’s display, you experience a place where history, spirituality, and legend converge—a must-see gem that captures the essence of Hanoi itself.
Planning a visit to Ngoc Son Temple Hanoi is easy when you know what to expect. This section gives you all the essential details so you can focus on soaking in the history, culture, and beauty without any surprises.
The temple welcomes visitors daily from around 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Keep in mind, it’s still an active place of worship, so special ceremonies may occasionally affect these hours. To be safe, double-check the schedule on the day of your visit—especially if you’re hoping to see a particular ritual or event.
Buying your ticket is simple: there’s a small booth just before you step onto the iconic red Huc Bridge. As of late 2025, the entrance fee for adults is about 30,000 VND, a very reasonable price for a peek into such a historically and culturally rich site. Prices may change, so check the ticket booth for the most current fee when you arrive.
Ngoc Son Temple is a sacred space, so visitors are expected to dress respectfully. Make sure your shoulders and knees are covered—shorts or sleeveless tops may require you to rent a sarong at the entrance for a small fee. Dressing appropriately not only shows respect but also helps you fully appreciate the temple’s serene and spiritual atmosphere.
With these practical tips in hand, you can confidently step onto the Huc Bridge, knowing you’re ready to enjoy all that Ngoc Son Temple Hanoi has to offer.
Ngoc Son Temple is usually open every day from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Since it’s still an active place of worship, hours may occasionally vary for special ceremonies, so it’s always a good idea to double-check on the day of your visit.
Tickets are available at a small booth just before you step onto the famous red Huc Bridge. As of late 2025, adults pay around 30,000 VND, a small price for exploring such a culturally rich and historic site.
Yes! To show respect for this sacred site, visitors are asked to cover their shoulders and knees. If you’re wearing shorts or a sleeveless top, the temple provides sarongs for a small fee at the entrance. Dressing appropriately makes your visit more comfortable and meaningful.
One of the temple’s most fascinating sights is the preserved body of a giant turtle that once lived in Hoan Kiem Lake. Locals revere it as a symbol of the legendary Golden Turtle God, who is said to have returned a magical sword to the lake—making this turtle a living link to Hanoi’s famous legend.
Absolutely! This is the iconic temple that sits on Jade Island in the heart of Hoan Kiem Lake, often referred to as Hanoi’s Lake Temple. Its picturesque location, history, and legends make it a must-see for anyone exploring the city.
Ngoc Son Temple Hanoi is far more than a scenic spot—it’s a serene escape where history, legend, and local culture intertwine. Standing on Jade Island, surrounded by the calm waters of Hoan Kiem Lake, you can truly feel the soul of Hanoi—a city that balances bustling streets with pockets of timeless tranquility. From the iconic red Huc Bridge to the legendary turtle and sacred halls, every detail tells a story that connects past and present.
To make the most of your visit, consider planning with a knowledgeable guide. Asia Mystika offers tailor-made experiences that let you explore Hanoi’s hidden corners, learn the rich legends of the city, and enjoy the temple with context you might otherwise miss. Take your time to wander, breathe in the incense, and let the gentle rhythm of the lake and stories of the Golden Turtle God leave a lasting impression. Your Hanoi adventure deserves a touch of insight, and a local expert can make it unforgettable.
