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Hoa Phong Tower exudes the characteristic ancient beauty of Hanoi. This place preserves countless moments of historical ups and downs. Have you explored Hoa Phong Tower yet?
Hanoi is beautiful in every season, whether it's spring, summer, autumn, or winter. The serene and ancient beauty of Hanoi always leaves a beautiful impression on everyone. Although the architectural structures in the capital may have aged over time, no longer as magnificent as when they were first built, it is precisely this antiquity that creates its uniqueness. Hoa Phong Tower, covered in moss and ancient, is one of those unique structures.
Let's explore the beauty of Hoa Phong Tower through the lens of Klook Vietnam to understand another landmark of the country. If you want to visit Hoa Phong Tower, remember to book a hotel in Hanoi and airport transfer services to Noi Bai on Klook to get exclusive discount codes!
Where is Hoa Phong Tower?
Hoa Phong Tower is located on Dinh Tien Hoang Street, in Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi. To find it easier, just go to the Central Post Office.
Hoa Phong Tower has endured and left its mark on many generations of Hanoi residents. The presence of Hoa Phong Tower on the street seems to have become familiar. But few know that Hoa Phong Tower does not belong to the Turtle Tower architectural complex but is a remaining part of the Báo Ân Pagoda relic built hundreds of years ago.
How to Get to Hoa Phong Tower
The way to Hoa Phong Tower is extremely simple. If you start from Lý Thái Tổ Street heading south to Trang Thi Street, turn left onto Hang Khay Street. Go about 200 meters then turn left onto Dinh Tien Hoang Street, move about 80 meters, and on the left is Hoa Phong Tower. You can also find Hoa Phong Tower by running around Hoan Kiem Lake to enjoy the scenery.
History of Hoa Phong Tower
According to historical documents, the person in charge of building the pagoda was Governor Hà Ninh - Nguyen Van Giai. He hailed from Phu Chan Village, Quang Binh, born into a prestigious family, and his father was the teacher of King Thieu Tri.
He was a renowned deity with many merits during the reign of King Thieu Tri. In 1846, while serving as Governor Hà Ninh, he raised funds to build the magnificent Báo Ân Pagoda. It can be said that after completion, Báo Ân Pagoda became the most majestic structure in Hanoi at that time. And Hoa Phong Tower is the remaining architectural part of Báo Ân Pagoda.
Based on the original drawings preserved, the temple boasts a unique architecture and was built within a large compound. The path along the lake on the east side leads to Hoa Phong Tower, followed by the temple gate. Crossing the cast bridge will lead to the Hộ Pháp Pavilion with two sets of symmetric three-story towers on either side. In the past, there were many lotus trees inside and around the temple, so it was also known as Lotus Temple.
There are various records of the events that led to the destruction of the temple, but dates are not consistent. Some documents mention that in November 1885, French Resident-General De Lanessan ordered the burning of the thatched houses along the shores of Hoan Kiem Lake. By the night of January 22, 1886, over 300 houses in that area had burned down. On the night of the 28th, another large fire destroyed the entire Cự Lâu village at the time, leaving only ruins of the Báo Ân Pagoda. It was not until 1888 that the French demolished the remaining part of the temple to build a post office, keeping only Hoa Phong Tower at the back of the temple as it is today.
Architecture of Hoa Phong Tower
Hoa Phong Tower has a square shape, consisting of 3 gradually diminishing tiers upwards. The first tier of the tower has an open vaulted passage leading out in 4 directions. Right above the 4 doors are inscriptions named Báo Ân gate, Báo Nghĩa gate, Báo Đức gate, and Báo Phúc gate. The second tier of the tower features four stone carved phoenixes facing eastward. The third tier has a plaque inscribed with “Hòa Phong Tower”, on the top of the tower is a stone lotus bud decoration, the entire structure of the tower is made of terracotta bricks. This type of tower is rarely seen in Buddhist architectural structures.
The Báo Ân temple of the past no longer exists, only a tale and the ancient Hoa Phong Tower remain. The willow trees around Hoan Kiem Lake further enhance the majestic beauty of this solitary tower. The tower still stands there, steadfast through the years, witnessing the passing crowds and becoming a timeless testament to Hanoi's history.
Tourist Activities/Visiting Hoa Phong Tower
Today, Hoa Phong Tower exists as a part of Hanoi's daily life. Both local residents and tourists visiting the capital can freely explore, take photos, and listen to tour guides narrating the tower's history. Due to its status as an ancient relic located by the lake, it's prone to vandalism, so visitors should be careful to preserve it and avoid causing damage!
Nearby Tourist Attractions Around Hoa Phong Tower
Since Hoa Phong Tower is situated in the central area of Hanoi, it's close to many famous attractions. Here are some tourist spots nearby that you can easily include in your day itinerary:
1. Hoan Kiem Lake - Turtle Tower
Hoan Kiem Lake, also known as Hoan Kiem Lake, is adjacent to Hoa Phong Tower. This lake is famous for the legend of the magic sword. Turtle Tower is located in the center of Hoan Kiem Lake and has been there for nearly 150 years. In the past, the tower served as a resting place for the King during lake tours. When visiting Hoa Phong Tower, take a leisurely stroll around Hoan Kiem Lake to enjoy the scenery and take photos!
2. Ngoc Son Temple
Ngoc Son Temple with its vibrant red Huc Bridge stands out as a prominent destination near Hoa Phong Tower. Regardless of your position around Hoan Kiem Lake, you will be able to see the majestic Ngoc Son Temple. Inside the temple, a 250kg precious specimen of the Hoan Kiem Turtle is preserved.
3. Hanoi Opera House
Hanoi Opera House is located right in the heart of the capital, at the intersection of 5 major streets. This opera house, constructed in 1911, took 10 years to complete. The opera house exudes classical and magnificent French architecture, modeled after the Opéra Garnier in Paris.
4. National Museum of Vietnamese History
Within a radius of less than 1km from Hoa Phong Tower is the National Museum of Vietnamese History. Established in 2011, this museum is currently located at 1 Trang Tien Street, Hoan Kiem District. The National Museum of Vietnamese History is a merger of two museums: the Vietnam Revolution Museum and the Vietnamese History Museum. Here, you can learn more about the history of the country through numerous artifacts and stories.
To delve deeper into the history and culture of the capital, you can join the Hanoi City Tour with the Vietnam Museum of Ethnology accompanied by professional and knowledgeable guides.
5. Imperial Citadel of Thang Long
Imperial Citadel of Thang Long is one of the UNESCO-recognized Cultural Heritage sites. It stands out as a favorite destination in Hanoi among domestic and international tourists. Today, the Imperial Citadel of Thang Long still retains some preserved relics open to visitors, such as the Kinh Thien Palace, Archaeological Area, Doan Mon Gate, Flag Tower,...
Book a Water Puppet Show in Hanoi to hear ancient folk tales accompanied by traditional music and watch the graceful puppet manipulation of skilled artisans.
Accommodations Near Hoa Phong Tower
There are many guesthouses and hotels near Hoa Phong Tower for you to choose from. Below are some top-quality lodging options within a 2km radius that you may consider.
1. Capella Hanoi
Capella Hanoi leaves an unforgettable first impression on travelers with its magnificent French-inspired architecture, inspired by the beauty of Hanoi Opera House. It is one of the marvelous creations of the 'Resort King' - Bill Bensley. Capella Hanoi, a luxurious 5-star hotel, elegant and sophisticated, with premium quality services, will provide you with a vacation beyond expectations.
- Address: 11 Le Phung Hieu Street, French Quarter, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City
- Price: From 7,800,000 VND/night
2. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi
Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi can be said to be one of the oldest hotels in the capital. Operating since 1901, this hotel is not only a high-end accommodation but also a historical landmark of Hanoi. Sofitel Legend Metropole Hanoi still retains its classic French architecture, grandeur amidst the increasingly modern city. It is an ideal stopover for tourists and businessmen alike.
- Address: 15 Ngo Quyen Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City
- Price: From 5,000,000 VND/night
3. Hotel de l'Opera Hanoi - Mgallery
Hotel de l'Opera Hanoi - Mgallery stands on Trang Tien Street like a castle amidst the old town. The hotel features 107 rooms decorated in a modern style of the early 21st century. Every detail, every corner of the hotel is meticulously cared for, and the furniture is carefully selected. This promising accommodation ensures an exciting experience for your Hanoi trip.
- Address: 29 Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City
- Price: From 4,000,000 VND/night
4. Silk Path Boutique Hanoi
Silk Path Boutique Hanoi is located on bustling Hang Khay Street, a prime location facing Hoan Kiem Lake. With a delicate blend of classical French design and modern luxury amenities, Silk Path Boutique Hanoi receives high praise from many travelers. Choosing this place as your accommodation, you will enjoy exploring the night market, savoring street food, strolling through the Old Quarter, and easily accessing other attractions.
- Address: 21 Hang Khay Street, Trang Tien, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City
- Price: From 1,600,000 VND/night
5. HanoiOi Hotel
HanoiOi Hotel is situated in the heart of Hanoi, very close to Hoa Phong Tower and Trang Tien Plaza. The hotel offers a variety of rooms and suites to suit every traveler's needs. You can choose from Deluxe, Deluxe Premium, Studio City View, or Grand Suite Lake View rooms at your leisure. HanoiOi's private restaurant serves both Vietnamese and European dishes, premium tea, coffee, and other delicious beverages.
- Address: 30c Ba Trieu Street, Hoan Kiem District, Hanoi City
- Price: From 1,000,000 VND/night
Exploring Hoa Phong Tower will help you better understand the history of the prosperous ancient Hanoi. Plan a perfect Hanoi trip with many exciting day tours on Klook, such as: A Day in Hanoi, Street Food and Sightseeing Tour in Hanoi by Motorbike, Day Tour to Perfume Pagoda Hanoi, Hanoi Classic Jeep Tour,...
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