Ho Tay

Ho Tay, the West Lake of Hanoi (3 September 2006)


Ho Tay, or West Lake, is the largest lake in Hanoi. Popularly known as the Lake of Mists, Ho Tay is created wjem Song Hong, the Red River, changed its course. During mediaval times, kings as well as warlords had their palaces built on its banks. In more recent times - the 90's - the lakeside saw the sprouting of villas, hotels and restaurants, often of tactless design.

There is a legend connected to Ho Tay, about a strange beast that terrorised the people in the area. The beast was killed by the Dragon King who unleashed a torrent of water to drown it, and in the process created Ho Tay. I explored the banks of Ho Tay by hiring a taxi from Hanoi. It turned out to be a very expensive exercise - I have a feeling that the taxi driver fleeced me with a dubious meter. So take that as a lesson, should you consider Ho Tay by taxi. I would recommend that you get your hotel to call a taxi for you than to simply hail one from the streets.

Getting there

The most straightforward way to reach Ho Tay is from Ba Dinh Square (where the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum is located). Just head north alontg Hung Vuong, and that will take you to Ho Tay.

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