Explore Ngọc Sơn Temple in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward! Discover its history, updated prices, sustainable tourism tips, and Legend Travel Group’s eco-tours. Book now!
Capture the spiritual beauty of Ngọc Sơn Temple’s sacred haven (Source: Internet)Ngọc Sơn Temple, known as the Temple of the Jade Mountain, is a cultural and spiritual treasure nestled on a tranquil islet in Hanoi’s iconic Hoan Kiem Lake, within the vibrant Hoan Kiem Ward. Accessible via the striking red Húc Bridge, this historic site draws travelers and locals with its ancient architecture, serene ambiance, and legendary tales, offering entry for just $1.20 (30,000 VND) for adults. Dedicated to national hero Trần Hưng Đạo, scholar Văn Xương, and other deities, the temple is a haven of incense-filled reverence, surrounded by lush trees and the lake’s mystical waters, home to rare soft-shell turtles tied to Vietnam’s folklore. Visiting Ngọc Sơn Temple is a must for immersing in Hanoi’s rich heritage and scenic beauty.
Built in the 19th century and renovated in 1865, the temple reflects Vietnam’s blend of Confucian, Taoist, and Buddhist traditions, standing as a National Special Relic since 2013. Vendors and guides promote eco-friendly practices, such as reusable water bottles and low-impact transport, aligning with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. Ideal for Hanoi’s tropical monsoon climate (dry season: November–April, 15–28°C or 59–82.4°F; rainy season: May–October, 22–32°C or 71.6–89.6°F), the temple’s shaded grounds offer respite. Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours guide travelers to Ngọc Sơn Temple sustainably, ensuring a memorable cultural journey. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!
Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards or communes, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration. This simplifies navigation to Ngọc Sơn Temple using ward-based maps.
Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly cultural tours across Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like cyclos, led by English-speaking guides who share the temple’s history, legends, and sustainable practices, ensuring a safe, enriching journey. Supporting local communities, we align with Hanoi’s green initiatives. With transparent pricing, free cancellations up to 48 hours before departure, and 24/7 support, we make planning effortless. Book our eco-tours via the links on this page and explore Ngọc Sơn Temple responsibly!
Photograph the historic allure of Ngọc Sơn Temple’s heritage (Source: Internet)Ngọc Sơn Temple, constructed in 1841 during the Nguyễn Dynasty, is a spiritual and historical landmark on Jade Island in Hoan Kiem Lake. Dedicated to Trần Hưng Đạo, who defeated Mongol invaders in the 13th century, Văn Xương (God of Literature), and Lã Tổ (patron saint of physicians), it embodies Vietnam’s Confucian, Taoist, and folk beliefs. Renovated in 1865 by scholar Nguyễn Văn Siêu, the temple gained iconic features like the Húc Bridge, Pen Tower (Tháp Bút), and Trần Ba Pavilion. Its name, meaning “Temple of the Jade Mountain,” reflects its serene setting.
The temple’s architecture harmonizes with the lake’s natural beauty, showcasing the Nghi Môn Gate, Đắc Nguyệt Pavilion, and preserved Hoan Kiem turtles in glass cases, linked to the legend of Emperor Lê Lợi’s magical sword returned to the Golden Turtle God. Recognized as a National Special Relic in 2013, it attracts visitors praying for prosperity and scholars seeking academic success. Eco-friendly initiatives, like waste reduction and sustainable transport, enhance its appeal as a cultural gem in Hanoi’s bustling heart.
Ngọc Sơn Temple offers a rich cultural experience with these eco-friendly activities, priced at $1.20 (30,000 VND) for adult entry:
Walk the vibrant red Húc Bridge, meaning “Morning Sunlight,” to enter the temple, capturing stunning photos of Hoan Kiem Lake. The bridge’s arched design is a Hanoi symbol.
Cost: Included in temple entry ($1.20 or 30,000 VND).
Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM daily.
Eco-Friendly Note: Walk to reduce emissions; avoid littering.
Tip: Visit early morning for fewer crowds.
Admire the Nghi Môn Gate, Pen Tower with its “Ta Thanh Thien” inscription, and Trần Ba Pavilion, blending Vietnamese and Chinese styles.
Cost: Included in entry.
Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Respect sacred spaces; avoid plastic offerings.
Tip: Light incense ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) respectfully.
See preserved soft-shell turtles in glass cases, linked to the lake’s legend, symbolizing longevity and protection.
Cost: Included in entry.
Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support conservation efforts; avoid touching displays.
Tip: Learn the Lê Lợi sword legend from guides.
Offer prayers at altars for Trần Hưng Đạo and Văn Xương, seeking prosperity or academic success, in the incense-filled sanctuary.
Cost: Included in entry; incense $0.20 (5,000 VND).
Hours: 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use minimal incense to reduce smoke.
Tip: Follow local customs; remove hats and shoes.
Experience the temple’s evening program with light projections and storytelling, highlighting its history.
Cost: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) per person.
Hours: Select evenings, 7:00 PM–9:00 PM (check with vendors).
Eco-Friendly Note: Low-energy lighting; group tours reduce impact.
Tip: Book via Legend Travel Group for a guided experience.
To immerse in the temple’s spiritual ambiance authentically, follow these practices:
Respect Sacred Spaces: Remove hats, wear modest clothing (no tank tops or shorts), and speak softly to honor the temple’s sanctity.
Light Incense Mindfully: Offer one or two incense sticks ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) at the bronze brazier, praying for blessings.
Embrace the Lake’s Serenity: Stroll Hoan Kiem Lake’s shores post-visit, reflecting on the turtle legend and city life.
Support Local Artisans: Buy eco-friendly souvenirs like bamboo bookmarks ($0.50 or 12,500 VND) from nearby stalls.
Eco-Friendly Tip: Use reusable water bottles and walk or cycle to the temple to minimize your carbon footprint.
Experience Hanoi Tours with sustainable adventures (Source: Internet)Enhance your temple visit with these sustainable activities in Hoan Kiem Ward:
Explore the car-free Hoan Kiem Walking Street (200 m from the temple) on weekends at 7:00 PM, enjoying street performances.
Cost: Free; snacks $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND).
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 7:00 PM–12:00 AM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Pedestrian-only; supports local vendors.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Watch a traditional water puppet show at 57B Đinh Tiên Hoàng (100 m away) at 5:00 PM, celebrating Vietnamese folklore.
Cost: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND) per ticket.
Hours: Daily, 3:00 PM–8:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Local artisans; minimal waste.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($100–$150).
Browse eco-friendly crafts at Đồng Xuân Market (500 m away) at 10:00 AM, supporting local vendors.
Cost: Free entry; purchases $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 6:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Reusable bags; local sourcing.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Visit the neo-Gothic St. Joseph’s Cathedral (300 m away) at 9:00 AM, admiring its architecture.
Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND).
Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM–6:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Walkable; supports preservation.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Shop for sustainable souvenirs at the Weekend Night Market (400 m away) at 8:00 PM, enjoying festive vibes.
Cost: Free entry; purchases $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–11:00 PM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Supports artisans; walkable.
Tip: Included in our Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($100–$150).
Ngọc Sơn Temple, located at Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward, is accessible in 5–20 minutes from central Hanoi:
By Bus: Routes 08, 14, 31, or 36 to Hoan Kiem Lake (5–10 min, $0.30–$0.50 or 7,000–12,000 VND). Walk 5 minutes. Every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–9:00 PM.
By Cyclo or Electric Cart: From central Hanoi (5–15 min, $2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
By Bicycle or Walking: Bicycle rental ($1–$3/day or 25,000–75,000 VND); walk 5–10 minutes in Hoan Kiem Ward.
By Electric Taxi (XANH SM): To Đinh Tiên Hoàng, $2–$6 (50,000–150,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$12 (100,000–300,000 VND). Eco-friendly VinFast electric cars.
By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND round-trip for up to 4 people).
By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 25 km. Flights: Ho Chi Minh City ($80–$150 or 2,000,000–3,750,000 VND), Da Nang ($60–$120 or 1,500,000–3,000,000 VND), Bangkok ($200–$600). Airport Bus No. 86 ($1.40 or 35,000 VND); taxi/Grab ($12–$15 or 300,000–375,000 VND).
Navigation Tip: Use offline maps (Maps.me) with the address “Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward”.
Pack these essentials for a sustainable Hanoi visit:
Clothing: Modest attire (long pants, covered shoulders); comfortable shoes for walking. Waterproof jackets for rainy season.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.
Travel Essentials: Mosquito repellent, reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND).
Tech Gear: Smartphone with offline maps (Maps.me), portable charger.
Documents: Passport, travel insurance, tour confirmations, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).
Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote bag, water bottle to minimize waste.
Extras: Notebook for temple notes; cash for entry and offerings.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for entry ($1.20 or 30,000 VND); avoid plastic bags.
Start your Hanoi Travel with tranquil vistas (Source: Internet)Entry and Activity Fees
Temple Entry: $1.20 (30,000 VND) for adults; $0.60 (15,000 VND) for students (with ID); free for children under 15.
Incense Offering: $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND).
“Ngọc Sơn – Mysterious Night” Tour: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Guided Cultural Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).
Market Purchases (souvenirs): $0.50–$3 (12,500–75,000 VND).
Water Puppet Show: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).
Transportation (Round-Trip, from Central Hanoi)
Bus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).
Cyclo/Electric Cart: $4–$10 (100,000–250,000 VND).
Bicycle: $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Walking: Free (Hoan Kiem Ward).
Electric Taxi: $4–$12 (100,000–300,000 VND).
Private Car: $30–$50 (750,000–1,250,000 VND).
Airport Bus No. 86 + Taxi: $20–$30 (500,000–750,000 VND).
Accommodation (Per Night, Double Occupancy)
Homestays: $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Hotels: $30–$80 (750,000–2,000,000 VND).
Total Daily Cost (Per Person)
Budget: $10–$25 (bus, temple entry, homestay).
Mid-range: $35–$55 (cyclo, guided tour, hotel).
Luxury: $75–$110 (private car, premium hotel).
Tip: Budget for temple entry and a nearby activity like a puppet show; carry cash as credit cards aren’t accepted.
Timing: Visit early (8:00–10:00 AM) for fewer crowds; evenings for the “Mysterious Night” tour (7:00–9:00 PM). Avoid lunar 1st and 15th days for quieter visits.
Booking: Reserve tours 3–5 weeks ahead for peak seasons; buy temple tickets on-site at Đắc Nguyệt Pavilion.
Sustainability: Walk or use electric taxis ($2–$6 or 50,000–150,000 VND); bring reusable water bottles to reduce plastic waste.
Navigation: Use offline maps with “Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward”; note weekend pedestrian-only zones around Hoan Kiem Lake.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets in crowded areas; secure valuables. Carry a first-aid kit.
Weather: Dry season for pleasant visits; rainy season needs waterproof gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Check AccuWeather.
Cultural Respect: Say “cảm ơn”; tip vendors $0.20–$0.50 (5,000–12,500 VND). Follow dress codes and silence phones.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); apply mosquito repellent.
Our sustainable tours showcase Ngọc Sơn Temple and Hanoi’s heritage:
Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Cyclo ride to Ngọc Sơn Temple at 8:00 AM, visiting Đồng Xuân Market and Hoan Kiem Lake. Includes guide, cyclo.
Hanoi Cultural Festival Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Temple visit, Thăng Long Water Puppet Show, Old Quarter Night Market, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Binh Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Ngọc Sơn Temple, Trang An Grottoes, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers.
Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
Ngọc Sơn Temple, a cultural jewel in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, offers a serene escape on Hoan Kiem Lake, with entry at $1.20 and eco-friendly practices like low-impact transport. From crossing the iconic Húc Bridge to praying at Trần Hưng Đạo’s altar, the temple’s history and turtle legend captivate, set against Hanoi’s vibrant backdrop. Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you to this sacred site, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience blending Ngọc Sơn Temple’s cultural immersion, sustainable travel, and festive energy. Whether admiring the Pen Tower or joining a water puppet show, Ngọc Sơn Temple promises an unforgettable Hanoi adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your cultural journey today!
Ready to explore Ngọc Sơn Temple’s iconic charm? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable adventure!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 100,000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
Source: By Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group
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