The Vibrant Colors of West Lake

Stretching over 17 kilometers, the roads around West Lake have long been a favorite destination for Hanoians. These tree-lined streets are not just picturesque and refreshing but are also home to numerous cultural sites, recreational activities, and renowned eateries. In the late afternoons, Thanh Nien, Nguyen Dinh Thi, and Trich Sai streets come alive with people jogging, cycling, swimming, and even rowing. West Lake isn’t just a place to enjoy the breeze; it’s a lively space embedded in the daily rhythm of the city, offering something for everyone year-round.

During the summer, the lake is adorned with the vibrant hues of blooming phoenix flowers, golden shower trees, and flamboyant blossoms. This season also marks the most beautiful sunsets of the year, where fiery skies blend seamlessly with the lake’s shimmering waters. Many locals joke that "going through summer without witnessing a West Lake sunset is a missed experience of a lifetime." This iconic scenery has become a must-visit spot for photographers and social media enthusiasts eager to capture its beauty.

Beyond its mesmerizing sunsets, West Lake exudes charm throughout the day. Early mornings bring a serene, poetic atmosphere, while at night, the shimmering city lights reflect on the vast water surface, creating a magical landscape. Whether at dawn or dusk, a visit to West Lake always offers an unforgettable experience.

Enhancing Tourism with Improved Transportation

West Lake isn’t just beloved by Hanoi residents—it’s also a popular attraction for domestic and international tourists. The scenic lake roads play a crucial role in the city’s tourism development, serving as a hub for cultural and leisure activities. Surrounding the lake are traditional villages such as Nhat Tan Flower Village, Quang Ba Flower Market, and the famous bronze-casting village of Ngu Xa. Additionally, historic sites like Van Nien Pagoda, Tran Quoc Pagoda, Quan Thanh Temple, and Tay Ho Palace draw visitors interested in Hanoi’s rich heritage.

However, despite its cultural significance, many of these heritage sites and craft villages remain underexplored by tourists. The primary challenge lies in transportation. While Hanoi residents can easily navigate the lake area using personal vehicles, tourists—especially international visitors—often struggle due to limited public transport options. As a result, the number of local visitors far exceeds that of foreign tourists.

To address this, Hanoi has been actively developing public transportation around West Lake in recent years. Since 2018, the city introduced double-decker City Tour buses, providing a convenient and informative way to explore Hanoi’s landmarks. Equipped with GPS-based multilingual audio guides, these buses help travelers gain deeper insights into the city’s history and culture. The route includes key attractions like Tran Quoc Pagoda and Thanh Nien Street, offering stunning views of West Lake.

Most recently, on November 18, 2023, Hanoi launched City Tour Route 03, featuring a smaller, open-top bus with 20 seats, designed to navigate the city’s narrow streets. Unlike previous routes, this new tour covers nearly the entire West Lake area, with stops at cultural landmarks such as Tran Quoc Pagoda, Vong Thi Temple, and Tao Sach Pagoda. This addition allows tourists to fully immerse themselves in the lake’s beauty while conveniently exploring its surroundings.

For many visitors, the sight of the bright red City Tour buses weaving through Hanoi’s streets has become a familiar and charming spectacle. These buses have even been dubbed a “tourism specialty” of the capital, offering flexible ticketing options that cater to travelers who wish to hop on and off at various attractions.

Thuy Linh, a 24-year-old from Bac Ninh, shared her experience: “I’ve visited Hanoi multiple times but never had the chance to explore West Lake. It’s vast, and I wasn’t sure where to start. When I heard about the new City Tour, I decided to try it, and it was an incredible experience. Though I took the evening tour and missed out on some attractions, the nighttime view of the lake from the upper deck was breathtaking. The tour even provided traditional conical hats for a fun ‘check-in’ moment. Next time, I’ll go for the 4–5 PM trip to catch the sunset.”

Exploring West Lake by Bicycle

Aside from buses, visitors can also rent public bicycles, an eco-friendly and affordable way to explore the lake. Hanoi has introduced 79 bike stations with 1,000 bicycles across six central districts, including Tay Ho. Cycling around West Lake promises to be a memorable experience, offering a closer connection to nature and a leisurely way to soak in the city’s charm.

Whether by foot, bike, or bus, a visit to West Lake is an essential Hanoi experience. With its natural beauty, rich history, and emerging tourism services, this iconic destination continues to captivate both locals and travelers from around the world.