Explore The Húc Bridge, Hanoi’s iconic red bridge in Hoan Kiem Ward! Discover activities, transport, costs, and Legend Travel Group’s eco-friendly tours. Book your cultural journey now!
Capture the radiant beauty of Hanoi's cultural gem (Source: Internet)The Húc Bridge, a striking red footbridge spanning Hoan Kiem Lake in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, is an iconic landmark drawing over 50,000–100,000 visitors weekly, especially during weekend pedestrian zones. Connecting the lake’s shore to the historic Ngoc Son Temple on Jade Island, this architectural gem, built in 1865, offers a serene gateway to Hanoi’s 1,000-year-old Thang Long heritage. Entry to cross the bridge and visit the temple costs $1.20 (30,000 VND), providing access to a sacred Buddhist site and stunning lake views.
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 bridge’s eco-friendly design, using sustainably sourced wood and solar-powered lighting, aligns with Hanoi’s “Green Capital” initiative. The surrounding pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight) enhances its appeal, creating a car-free haven for cultural immersion. Legend Travel Group’s sustainable tours guide you through this vibrant landmark, ensuring a green, unforgettable experience. 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, with former Hoan Kiem District now Hoan Kiem Ward under Hanoi City’s administration, simplifying navigation to The Húc Bridge 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 experiences. Our tours use low-impact transport like electric cyclos or VinBus, led by English-speaking guides who share bridge 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 The Húc Bridge responsibly!
Dive into the historic charm of Hanoi Travel (Source: Internet)Constructed in 1865 during Emperor Tự Đức’s reign by scholar Nguyễn Văn Siêu, The Húc Bridge (Cầu Thê Húc, meaning “the rising and perching sun”) links Hoan Kiem Lake’s shore to Ngoc Son Temple, a 19th-century Buddhist sanctuary. Named for its poetic connection to morning sunlight, the bridge’s vibrant red wooden structure, modeled after Red River Delta homes, spans 15 arches with a gentle shrimp-like curve. Rebuilt in 1897 and reinforced with cement in 1953 after a 1952 collapse, it retains its traditional aesthetic with golden “Thê Húc” inscriptions. The bridge’s eco-friendly solar lanterns and minimal maintenance preserve its charm, making it a cultural icon near Turtle Tower and the Old Quarter, steps from Hoan Kiem Lake’s 12-hectare expanse. Its historical significance ties to the legend of Emperor Lê Lợi, who returned a magical sword to a golden turtle in the lake, a story celebrated at Ngoc Son Temple.
These eco-friendly activities, costing $0–$1.20, offer cultural and scenic engagement:
Walk the red bridge to Ngoc Son Temple, best at 8:00 AM, for $1.20 (30,000 VND), exploring shrines to Trần Hưng Đạo and Văn Xương Đế Quân.
Cost: $1.20; includes temple entry.
Hours: Daily, 7:00 AM–6:00 PM.
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).
Photograph the bridge’s red arches against Hoan Kiem Lake, best at 7:00 PM when lit, free, for stunning shots.
Cost: Free; tripod $20–$50 (500,000–1,250,000 VND).
Hours: 24/7; best at dusk or dawn.
Eco-Friendly Note: Digital photography minimizes waste; avoid flash in temple areas.
Tip: Shoot from Đinh Tiên Hoàng; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Photography Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Join locals during the weekend pedestrian zone, best at 8:00 PM Friday–Sunday, free, soaking in street performances and lake views.
Cost: Free; snacks $1–$3 (25,000–75,000 VND).
Hours: Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Support local vendors with biodegradable packaging; walk to reduce emissions.
Tip: Explore Hàng Đào; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Night Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Admire Turtle Tower from the bridge’s shore, best at 6:30 AM, free, learning its Lê Lợi legend.
Cost: Free.
Hours: 24/7; best at sunrise.
Eco-Friendly Note: Use digital guides to reduce paper; respect lakefront paths.
Tip: Stand near Ly Thái Tổ Statue; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Lake Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Observe or join morning Tai Chi sessions near the bridge, best at 6:00 AM, free, for a cultural experience.
Cost: Free; donations $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND) appreciated.
Hours: Daily, 5:30–7:00 AM.
Eco-Friendly Note: Minimal impact activity; bring reusable water bottles.
Tip: Watch from Lê Thái Tổ Street; included in Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Cultural Eco-Tour ($50–$80).
Photograph the serene allure of Hanoi's landmark (Source: Internet)Visit from November to April for cool, dry weather (15–28°C or 59–82.4°F), ideal for crossing the bridge and exploring Hoan Kiem Ward. The rainy season (May–October) adds a misty charm but requires rain gear ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND). Early mornings (6:00–8:00 AM) offer tranquility with 500–1,000 visitors, compared to afternoons (5,000–10,000) or the weekend pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight), when crowds peak at 50,000–100,000 for street festivities. Weekdays (Tuesday–Thursday) are quieter than weekends, especially during Tet (January/February), when visitor numbers surge to 100,000+. Avoid rush hours (7:30–9:00 AM, 5:00–7:00 PM) for smoother travel to the bridge, located centrally in Hoan Kiem Ward.
The Húc Bridge, at Đinh Tiên Hoàng Street, Hoan Kiem Ward, is steps from Hoan Kiem Lake, reachable in 5–60 minutes from central Hanoi or Noi Bai Airport:
By Walking: 5–15 minutes within Hoan Kiem Ward (e.g., from Hanoi Opera House to Đinh Tiên Hoàng, 200m). 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, 86 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 (Maps.me); use Turtle Tower as a landmark. Pedestrian zone restricts vehicles Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight.
Eco-Friendly Note: Walking, VinBus, or electric taxis reduce emissions; carpool for private cars.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Hàng Khay; secure valuables. Confirm fares via apps or negotiate upfront.
Experience Hanoi Tours with sustainable exploration (Source: Internet)Pack these essentials for a sustainable experience:
Clothing: Light layers, comfortable shoes for walking; waterproof jacket ($2–$5 or 50,000–125,000 VND) for rainy season.
Sun Protection: SPF 50+ sunscreen, sunglasses, wide-brimmed hat.
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.
Extras: Notebook for cultural notes; cash for tickets and vendors.
Tip: Carry small VND notes for temple entry ($1.20), snacks ($1–$3), or parking ($0.20–$1.20); secure valuables in crowded zones.
Entry and Activity Costs
Húc Bridge & Ngoc Son Temple Entry: $1.20 (30,000 VND).
Donations at Temple: $0.50–$1 (12,500–25,000 VND, optional).
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, souvenirs, guided tour).
Luxury: $50–$80 (taxi, guided tour, premium purchases).
Tip: Budget for temple entry ($1.20), transport ($0.60–$15), and food ($1–$3); carry cash for vendors (apps accept digital payments).
Start your Hanoi Travel with tranquil cultural vibes (Source: Internet)Timing: Visit 6:00–8:00 AM for peace or 7:00–9:00 PM for lit views; November–April for dry weather. Weekdays for fewer crowds (500–1,000 vs. 50,000–100,000 on weekends). Pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight) for vibrant atmosphere; avoid Tet for lighter crowds.
Booking: Purchase temple tickets on-site ($1.20); reserve Legend Travel Group’s tours 24–48 hours ahead. No bridge access fee without temple entry.
Sustainability: Walk or use VinBus to reduce emissions; buy biodegradable snacks from local vendors ($1–$3). Support artisans on Hàng Gai for souvenirs ($1–$5).
Navigation: Save “Đinh Tiên Hoàng, Hoan Kiem Ward” in offline maps; use Ngoc Son Temple as a landmark. Pedestrian zone restricts vehicles Friday–Sunday.
Safety: Watch for pickpockets on Hàng Khay; secure valuables. Confirm transport fares via apps or negotiate; avoid solicitations at lakefront.
Weather: Dry season for comfort; rainy season needs rain gear ($2–$5). Check AccuWeather for conditions.
Cultural Respect: Dress modestly at Ngoc Son Temple (cover shoulders/knees); maintain silence in sacred areas. Greet vendors with “xin chào”; respect Tai Chi groups.
Health: Drink bottled water ($0.50 or 12,500 VND); carry hand sanitizer. Choose busy stalls for fresh food.
Our eco-friendly tours showcase The Húc Bridge and Hanoi’s cultural treasures:
Hanoi Lake Eco-Tour ($50–$80/person, 1 day): Electric cyclo to The Húc Bridge, Ngoc Son Temple, and Old Quarter at 8:00 AM, with street food lunch ($2–$5). Includes guide, transport.
Hanoi Cultural Tour ($100–$150/person, 2 days): Bike to The Húc Bridge, Thang Long Water Puppet Theatre, homestay ($20–$50/night). Includes meals, guide.
Hanoi & Ninh Bình Immersion ($250–$400/person, 3 days): Húc Bridge visit, Ninh Bình’s Trang An, homestays. Includes meals, eco-transfers. Prices include guides, eco-transfers, fees. 15% off for groups of 8+! Book now via links!
The Húc Bridge, a radiant red footbridge connecting Hoan Kiem Lake to Ngoc Son Temple in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward, captivates over 50,000–100,000 visitors weekly with its 1865 architecture and cultural significance. For $1.20 (30,000 VND), cross to explore sacred shrines and lake views, enhanced by eco-friendly solar lighting and the weekend pedestrian zone (Friday–Sunday, 6:00 PM–midnight). Legend Travel Group’s Hanoi Tours guide you through The Húc Bridge, ensuring a sustainable Hanoi Travel experience filled with green, immersive exploration. Whether photographing its iconic arches or joining lakeside Tai Chi, The Húc Bridge promises an unforgettable Hanoi cultural adventure. Don’t miss out—browse our featured tours and book your journey today!
Ready to visit The Húc Bridge in Hanoi’s Hoan Kiem Ward? Reserve your sustainable tour with Legend Travel Group and embark on an unforgettable cultural journey!
Author Bio: Written by Tony Bùi at Legend Travel Group, with over 20 years of experience in the travel industry, personally guiding and organizing tours for over 100,000 travellers across Southeast Asia. This guide draws from firsthand insights, guest feedback from Legend Travel Group surveys.
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