Ngoc Son Temple Hanoi: Hoan Kiem Ward Guide & Eco Tours

A Spiritual Jewel in Hanoi’s Cultural Heart

Ngoc Son Temple, perched on Jade Island in the heart of Hoan Kiem Lake, Hoan Kiem Ward, is Hanoi’s most iconic temple, drawing over 100,000 visitors weekly for its serene beauty and rich history. Accessible via the vibrant red Húc Bridge, this 19th-century sanctuary, with an entry fee of $1.20 (30,000 VND), offers a tranquil escape amidst Hanoi’s bustling Old Quarter, embodying the city’s 1,000-year-old Thang Long heritage. Dedicated to General Trần Hưng Đạo, scholar Văn Xương, and physician La Tô, it’s a sacred space where locals and travelers pray for prosperity, wisdom, and health, steeped in Vietnam’s Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist traditions.

Set in a 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 eco-friendly practices, like biodegradable incense and solar-powered lighting, align with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. The weekend pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight) transforms the lakefront into a car-free cultural hub, amplifying its allure. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours guide you through this spiritual landmark, ensuring a green, immersive journey. Book via the links throughout this guide or contact us at WhatsApp: +84825862222 or email: sales@legendtravelgroup.com!

Administrative Update

Vietnam’s administrative restructuring has reclassified Hanoi’s districts as wards, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration, simplifying navigation to Ngoc Son Temple using ward-based maps.

Legend Travel Group excels in sustainable Southeast Asia tourism, offering guided eco-friendly tours in Hanoi, tailored for travelers seeking authentic cultural and spiritual experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric cyclos or VinBus, led by English-speaking guides who share temple legends, cultural insights, and green 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 Ngoc Son Temple responsibly!

Founded in 1841 during the Nguyễn Dynasty, Ngoc Son Temple, or “Temple of the Jade Mountain,” was expanded in 1865 by scholar Nguyễn Văn Siêu, who added the iconic Húc Bridge, Pen Tower, and Trần Ba Pavilion, creating a harmonious architectural complex. Dedicated to General Trần Hưng Đạo, who defeated Mongol invaders in the 13th century, and Văn Xương, the deity of literature, the temple blends Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist elements. Its main hall houses gilded statues, ancient ceramics, and preserved Hoan Kiem Lake turtles, symbolizing the legend of Emperor Lê Lợi returning a magical sword to a golden turtle. Recognized as a National Special Relic in 2013, the temple’s eco-friendly solar lanterns and minimal waste practices preserve its serene islet, just 200 meters from Hanoi’s Old Quarter. Night tours, launched recently, use 3D mapping and traditional music to showcase its history, attracting 60–70 visitors per evening.

These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$1.20, offer spiritual and cultural engagement:

1. Cross The Húc Bridge to the Temple

Walk the iconic red Húc Bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, best at 7:00 AM, for $1.20 (30,000 VND), admiring its sunrise glow and praying at altars.

• Cost: $1.20 (includes temple entry); free for children under 15.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM; night tours (Monday–Thursday, 7:00–8:00 PM) $5 (125,000 VND).

• Eco-Friendly Note: Digital tickets reduce paper; respect sacred spaces.

• Tip: Visit early for fewer crowds; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Temple Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

2. Explore Preserved Turtle Exhibits

View taxidermied Hoan Kiem Lake turtles, best at 9:00 AM, included in $1.20 entry, tied to the Lê Lợi sword legend.

• Cost: Included in entry; donations $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) appreciated.

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Support conservation efforts; avoid touching displays.

• Tip: Read plaques for turtle history; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

3. Photograph Pen Tower and Architecture

Capture the 10-meter Pen Tower and temple’s Taoist gates, best at dusk, included in $1.20 entry, for iconic Hanoi shots.

• Cost: Included; professional photography permit $1 (25,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Digital photography minimizes waste; respect worshippers.

• Tip: Shoot from Đắc Nguyệt Pavilion; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Photography Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

4. Join Nighttime Cultural Tours

Experience 60-minute night tours with 3D mapping and traditional music, best Monday–Thursday at 7:00 PM, for $5 (125,000 VND).

• Cost: $5; limited to 60–70 visitors.

• Hours: Monday–Thursday, 7:00–8:00 PM.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Low-energy lighting; book via local operators.

• Tip: Reserve 24 hours ahead; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Night Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

5. Pray at Lunar Worship Days

Offer incense on the 1st and 15th lunar days, best at 8:00 AM, included in $1.20 entry, joining locals for blessings.

• Cost: Included; incense $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM; extended to 8:00 PM on lunar days.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Use biodegradable incense; follow monk guidance.

• Tip: Check lunar calendar; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Spiritual Eco-Tour ($50–$80).

Visit from November to April for cool, dry weather (15–28°C or 59–82.4°F), ideal for crossing The Húc Bridge and exploring Hoan Kiem Ward. The rainy season (May–October) adds a misty ambiance but requires rain gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Early mornings (7:00–9:00 AM) offer serenity with 1,000–2,000 visitors, compared to afternoons (10,000–20,000) or the pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight), when crowds peak at 50,000–100,000 for street performances. Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are quieter than weekends, with lunar worship days (1st and 15th) drawing 5,000–10,000 devotees. Tet (January/February) surges to 100,000+ visitors for festivals. Avoid rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM, 5:00–7:00 PM) for smoother travel to the temple, 200 meters from Hanoi’s Old Quarter.

Ngoc Son Temple, at Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, is 200 meters from Hoan Kiem Lake’s shore, reachable in 5–60 minutes from central Hanoi or Noi Bai Airport:

• By Walking: 5–10 minutes from Old Quarter via Hàng Gai to Đinh Tiên Hoàng. Free, eco-friendly.

• By Cyclo: From Old Quarter, 5–10 minutes, $2–$4/hour (50,000–100,000 VND) for 1–2 people, offering scenic rides.

• By Motorbike Taxi (Xe Ôm): 1–5 km rides (e.g., Ba Đình to Hoan Kiem), 5–10 minutes, $0.80–$2 (20,000–50,000 VND). Book via Grab/Be/Xanh SM apps; helmets mandatory (fines up to $40 or 1,000,000 VND).

• By Electric Bus (VinBus): Routes 08, 09, 14, 31, 36 to Lý Thái Tổ or Hanoi Post Office stops (200m walk), 5–10 minutes, $0.30–$0.40 (7,000–10,000 VND). Departs every 10–20 minutes, 5:00 AM–10:30 PM. Use Tìm Buýt app.

• By Electric Taxi (Xanh SM): To Đinh Tiên Hoàng, 5–10 minutes from Hoan Kiem Ward, $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND) one-way; round-trip $4–$8. Use Xanh SM app.

• By Bicycle: Rent from Old Quarter shops ($2–$5/day or 50,000–125,000 VND), 5–10 minutes. Eco-friendly; park at Hàng Trống ($0.20–$1.20 or 5,000–30,000 VND).

• By Electric Car: Fixed routes around Hoan Kiem Lake, 15–20 minutes, $1–$2 (25,000–50,000 VND) per ride, starting near Ly Thái Tổ Statue.

• By Private Car (Legend Travel Group): $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND) round-trip for up to 4 people, with parking at Lý Thường Kiệt ($0.80–$1.20 or 20,000–30,000 VND).

• By Air (to Hanoi): Noi Bai Airport (HAN), 28–30 km. Airport Bus No. 86 to Hoan Kiem Ward ($1.40 or 35,000 VND, 50–60 min), then walk; direct taxi/Grab ($10–$15 or 250,000–375,000 VND). 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). Navigation Tip: Save “Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use Turtle Tower as a landmark. Pedestrian zone restricts vehicles Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight.

• Eco-Friendly Note: Walking, VinBus, or Xanh SM taxis reduce emissions; carpool for private cars.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Hàng Khay; secure valuables. Confirm fares via apps or negotiate upfront.

Pack these essentials for a sustainable spiritual experience:

• Clothing: Light layers, closed-toe shoes; modest attire (cover shoulders/knees, no shorts or tank tops) for temple respect; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season.

• Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat (remove in worship areas).

• Travel Essentials: Reusable water bottle, compact umbrella ($2–$5), hand sanitizer ($0.50 or 12,500 VND).

• Tech Gear: Smartphone with Grab/Xanh SM/Tìm Buýt apps, offline maps, portable charger; Vietnamese SIM card ($5–$10 or 125,000–250,000 VND).

• Photography Gear: Camera or smartphone for bridge shots; extra batteries.

• Documents: Passport copy, travel insurance, VND (10,000–50,000 notes).

• Eco-Friendly Items: Reusable tote for souvenirs ($1–$2); biodegradable wipes; local incense ($0.20 or 5,000 VND) for offerings.

• Extras: Notebook for cultural notes; cash for tickets and vendors.
  Tip: Carry small VND notes for entry ($1.20), incense ($0.20), or snacks ($1–$3); secure valuables in crowded zones.

Costs for Visiting Ngoc Son Temple

Entry and Activity Costs

• Temple Entry: $1.20 (30,000 VND); students $0.60 (15,000 VND); free for children under 15.

• Night Tours: $5 (125,000 VND, Monday–Thursday).

• Incense Offerings: $0.20 (5,000 VND).

• Donations: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND, optional).

• Photography Permit (Professional): $1 (25,000 VND).

• Street Food (Nearby Hàng Khay, e.g., Phở): $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).

• Drinks (Bia Hơi, Coffee): $0.30–$1.50 (7,000–37,500 VND).

• Souvenirs (e.g., Handicrafts): $1–$5 (25,000–125,000 VND).

• Guided Eco-Tour: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND/day).

Transportation (Round-Trip, from Hoan Kiem Ward or Airport)

• Walking: Free.

• Cyclo: $2–$4/hour (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Xe Ôm: $1.60–$4 (40,000–100,000 VND) for 1–5 km.

• VinBus: $0.60–$1 (14,000–24,000 VND).

• Xanh SM Taxi: $4–$8 (100,000–200,000 VND).

• Bicycle Rental: $2–$5/day (50,000–125,000 VND).

• Electric Car: $2–$4 (50,000–100,000 VND).

• Private Car: $15–$25 (375,000–625,000 VND).

• Airport Bus No. 86 + Walk/Xe Ôm: $3.70–$6.40 (92,500–160,000 VND).

• Airport Taxi: $10–$15 (250,000–375,000 VND).

• Parking: $0.20–$1.20 (5,000–30,000 VND) for bikes; $0.80–$1.20 (20,000–30,000 VND) for cars.

• SIM Card: $5–$10 (125,000–250,000 VND).

Total Daily Cost (Per Person)

• Budget: $5–$15 (walking, temple entry, street food).

• Mid-range: $20–$35 (cyclo, night tour, souvenirs).

• Luxury: $50–$80 (taxi, guided tour, premium purchases).
  Tip: Budget for entry ($1.20), transport ($0.60–$15), and food ($1–$3); carry cash for vendors (apps accept digital payments).

• Timing: Visit 7:00–9:00 AM for peace or 7:00–8:00 PM for night tours; November–April for dry weather. Weekdays for fewer crowds (1,000–2,000 vs. 50,000–100,000 on weekends). Avoid 1st/15th lunar days for quieter visits; join for cultural rituals.

• Booking: Buy temple tickets ($1.20) at the Húc Bridge booth; reserve night tours ($5) or Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead. Cash only for entry.

• Sustainability: Use biodegradable incense; bring reusable bottles. Support Hàng Gai artisans for souvenirs ($1–$5) or Hàng Khay vendors for snacks ($1–$3).

• Navigation: Save “Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use Hanoi Opera House as a landmark. Pedestrian zone restricts vehicles Friday–Sunday.

• Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Đinh Tiên Hoàng; secure valuables. Respect temple rules (no shorts, silence in shrines); confirm fares via apps.

• Weather: Dry season for comfort; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5). Check AccuWeather for conditions.

• Cultural Respect: Dress modestly (cover shoulders/knees); remove shoes at entry. Greet monks with “xin chào”; avoid loud behavior in worship areas.

• Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); carry hand sanitizer. Choose busy stalls for fresh food.

Our eco-friendly tours showcase Ngoc Son Temple and Hanoi’s cultural treasures:

• Hanoi Temple Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Electric cyclo to Ngoc Son Temple, Bà Đá Pagoda, and Old Quarter at 8:00 AM, with street food lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.

• Hanoi Cultural Night Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Night tour of Ngoc Son Temple, Tạ Hiện’s bia hơi, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.

• Hanoi & Ninh Bình Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Ngoc Son Temple, Ninh Bình’s Bái Đính Pagoda, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!

Ngoc Son Temple, on Jade Island in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, is a 19th-century spiritual haven accessible via the red Húc Bridge, enchanting over 100,000 visitors weekly with its Lê Lợi legend and serene lake views for just $1.20 (30,000 VND). With eco-friendly solar lighting and biodegradable incense, it blends Nguyễn Dynasty architecture with modern sustainability, steps from Hoan Kiem Lake’s vibrant pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight). Legend Travel Group’s sustainable Hanoi Tours guide you through this cultural gem, ensuring a green, immersive adventure. Whether praying at altars or photographing Pen Tower, Ngoc Son Temple promises an unforgettable Hanoi Travel experience. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your cultural journey today!
Ready to visit Ngoc Son Temple in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable spiritual adventure!

Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, guiding 1000+ travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.