Exposition on Hồ Gươm

Essay Prompt: Exposition on Hồ Gươm

Exploring the Legend of Ho Guom

Whenever I return to Hanoi, I am drawn to the timeless beauty of Ho Guom. It has stood here for centuries, bearing the dust of time and the flow of history with countless changes. Yet, its surface remains, gleaming like a precious gem, peacefully lying amidst the bustling heart of the city.

Ho Guom, also known as Hoan Kiem Lake, is a natural freshwater lake situated in Hoan Kiem district, Hanoi. Covering an area of approximately 12 hectares, the lake is quite expansive, with an average depth ranging from 1 to 1.4 meters and an estimated lake perimeter of 1750 meters. Geographically, Ho Guom originates from a distributary of the Red River, expanding and settling in the low-lying area of the capital, forming the lake we see today. It serves as a connecting point between the ancient streets of Hang Ngang, Hang Dao, Cau Go, and the colonial-era streets of Bao Khanh, Nha Tho, Hang Bai, Trang Tien, planned by the French colonizers centuries ago.

Ho Guom, known by numerous names, was once called Luc Thuy Lake due to its gem-like green color, breathtakingly beautiful. During the reign of King Le and Lord Trinh, the lake was utilized for military inspections and training, earning names like Water Army Lake, Ta Vong, Huu Vong. The name Hoan Kiem started appearing in the early 15th century, linked to the legend of King Le Loi returning the precious sword to the Holy Turtle. The tale recounts a dragon boat ride on Ho Guom, where a giant Turtle emerged, demanding the king return the sword borrowed to repel the Ming invaders. Le Loi drew the sword, the turtle took it, and then disappeared, giving the lake another name, Ho Hoan Kiem.

On the lake, numerous historical landmarks stand tall. First and foremost is Turtle Tower, an iconic symbol of Ho Guom that every visitor wishes to explore. Turtle Tower sits on a small mound in the lake, built in the French architectural style. Construction started around 1884, and by 1886, it was completed. With its unique design, a four-story tower creates a spectacular scene in the heart of the lake, gracefully covered in moss, proving its enduring existence throughout the years, a valuable witness to history.

Turning our gaze northward, we encounter Ngoc Son Temple, previously named Tuong Nhi but changed during the Tran dynasty. The temple venerates the deities Van Xuong, overseeing the imperial exams, and Tran Hung Dao. Right in front of the temple is the curving The Huc Bridge, adorned in bright red paint under the sun. Built in 1886 by scholar Nguyen Van Sieu, the bridge's name translates to 'where sunlight docks in the early morning.' The unique combination of Ngoc Son Temple and Hoan Kiem Lake creates a harmonious and ancient beauty, blending seamlessly between humans and the stunning nature.

Turning our gaze to the Northeast, we see the Pen Tower standing tall, as if ready to sketch a few strokes on the deep blue sky. The five-story tower's peak resembles a pen pointing to the sky, with the pen's body engraved with the bold characters 'Ta Thanh Thien.' Linked with the Pen Tower is the Ink Slab, both uniquely constructed in 1865, presenting a beauty that harmoniously combines culture and humanism, reflecting the scholarly spirit of the Vietnamese people.

Apart from the mentioned historical architectural structures, Ho Guom is also associated with other architectural wonders like Hoa Phong Tower in the East or Ba Kieu Temple in the Northeast (worshipping three goddesses: Princess Lieu Hanh, Second Jade Maiden, and Third Jade Maiden), Thuy Ta and the temple dedicated to King Le,…

The ecosystem of the lake is nothing extraordinary, but noteworthy is the Ho Guom Turtle, initially with four, all of which have passed away. The last turtle in 2011 was brought up for treatment of wounds, but by early 2016, the 'Grandpa Turtle' also passed away. This is a consequence of some irresponsible citizens dumping garbage into the lake, polluting the water, coupled with the poaching of turtles.

Ho Guom holds immense significance for the capital's residents. It is not just a place to enjoy picturesque scenery but also a relic that has witnessed numerous historical events shaping the nation's destiny. The lake bears an enormous cultural and spiritual value, engraved in the memories of Hanoi's people. Mention Hanoi, and thoughts immediately turn to the tranquil Ho Guom with Turtle Tower and the ancient Ngoc Son Temple. It's no wonder people liken Ho Guom to the beautiful heart of Hanoi. Today, Ho Guom has become a captivating tourist destination in the heart of Hanoi, attracting many visitors. The surrounding lakefront is also an ideal leisure spot for all generations, from the elderly to the young.

Though not the only large lake in the capital, with its distinctive historical features and the classical beauty tinted by time, Hoan Kiem Lake has become an endless source of inspiration in poetry and painting. Ho Guom is both a historical relic and a scenic spot with great value and profound spiritual meaning for every Hanoi resident, providing a serene focal point amidst the bustling capital. If you have the opportunity, visit Hanoi and Ho Guom to personally experience the unique and ancient charm of this place.