Truc Bach Lake: History, Landscapes, and Must-See Spots for Visitors

Located in Ba Dinh District, Truc Bach Lake is a peaceful corner of Hanoi, separated from West Lake by the tree-lined Thanh Nien Street. With a history dating back to 1620, charming colonial villas, bamboo-lined paths, and cultural sites such as Chau Long Pagoda and Quan Thanh Temple, it offers a perfect blend of scenery and heritage. Visitors can walk or cycle around the lake, try iconic dishes like Pho Cuon, or capture sunset views over the broader Hanoi Lake area. Vietpower Travel includes Truc Bach Lake in curated Vietnam Tours, offering guided experiences enriched with local stories.

1. Location of Truc Bach Lake

Truc Bach Lake is located in Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, separated from the larger West Lake by the tree-lined Thanh Nien Street. It sits alongside Truc Bach Street and Tran Vu Street, just minutes from some of the capital’s major landmarks.

• Address: Truc Bach Lake, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Coordinates:
  • Latitude: 21.0412°N / 21°2′44″N (21.04556°N)
  • Longitude: 105.8336°E / 105°50′17″E (105.83806°E)

With calm waters, shaded paths, and a collection of cultural sites, it’s one of the most relaxing stops for visitors exploring Hanoi Lake attractions.

2. History of Truc Bach Lake – From Royal Retreat to Cultural Landmark

Formation in the 17th Century

The origins of Truc Bach Lake trace back to the year 1620, during the rule of the Lê kings and Trịnh lords. To create space for fish farming, residents of Yên Hoa and Yên Quang villages constructed the Cổ Ngư Dike — now known as Thanh Nien Street. This engineering work split the original West Lake into two: the larger western part retained the name West Lake, while the smaller eastern section became Truc Bach Lake.

In those early days, bamboo groves lined the shores, giving the area a peaceful, almost poetic ambiance that still lingers today.

The Silk-Weaving Tradition of Truc Bach

Truc Bach Lake also carries the legacy of a unique silk-weaving craft. Historical accounts tell of concubines from the Trúc Lâm Palace, who, after falling out of favor, were sent here to weave an exceptionally fine silk known as Truc Bach silk. This delicate fabric, admired for its soft texture and intricate patterns, became a highly valued material in Vietnamese culture.

The tradition of craftsmanship extended beyond silk — the nearby Ngũ Xã village developed into a renowned bronze casting community, further enriching the area’s cultural identity.

The Vietnam War & John McCain Memorial

In modern history, Truc Bach Lake gained global attention due to an event during the Vietnam War. On October 26, 1967, U.S. Navy pilot John McCain was shot down during a bombing mission over Hanoi and parachuted into the lake. He was rescued and captured by local residents, marking the beginning of his years as a prisoner of war.

Today, a small memorial stands on Thanh Nien Street to commemorate this moment, serving as a reminder of the lake’s place in both local and international history.

3. Top Things to Do Around Truc Bach Lake

Walk or Cycle Around the Lake

Truc Bach Lake has a 1.8 km loop formed by Truc Bach Street and Tran Vu Street, connected directly to Thanh Nien Street. These roads are shaded by trees and have light traffic, making them perfect for walking or casual cycling. Early morning and late afternoon are the best times, when the air is cooler and the light is softer.

Visit Religious & Cultural Landmarks

• Chau Long Pagoda: A small Buddhist temple near the southeast corner of the lake, featuring a traditional gate and a peaceful courtyard.
• Thuy Trung Tien Temple: Located on a small island connected by a stone bridge decorated with colorful flags. It offers a panoramic view of the lake.
• Quan Thanh Temple: An 11th-century Taoist temple near the southwest corner, famous for its over 3-meter bronze statue of Tran Vu and intricate carvings.

Enjoy Lakeside Coffee & Dining

• Highlands Coffee “yacht” café: Built like a floating boat on the lake, with a second floor overlooking both Truc Bach Lake and West Lake.
• Tranquil Books & Coffee: A quiet café tucked inside an old house, ideal for reading and relaxing.
• Bluebird’s Nest Café: Known for its high balcony with views of local life and the lake.

Try the Iconic Truc Bach Cuisine

• Pho Cuon: Soft rice noodle sheets rolled with stir-fried beef and herbs, served with sweet-sour dipping sauce.
• Pho Chien Phong: Square-cut rice noodles fried until crispy, topped with stir-fried beef and vegetables. Many famous restaurants are on Ngu Xa Street, just steps from the lake.

Duck Pedal Boat Ride

Available near Highlands Coffee, these swan-shaped pedal boats operate from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM. Suitable for couples, families, and small groups, they provide a fun way to view the lake from the water.

4. Best Time to Visit Truc Bach Lake

The most enjoyable time to visit Truc Bach Lake is during autumn (September to November). The weather is cool and dry, making it comfortable for walking or cycling. Along Thanh Nien Street, the leaves turn shades of yellow and orange, creating a warm, romantic setting.

Time of Day: Sunset is particularly beautiful, as golden light reflects off the calm water. The soft glow enhances the view of the surrounding villas, temples, and trees.

Other Seasons:

• Spring (March to April) is vibrant with blossoms such as flamboyant and poinciana flowers, perfect for nature photography.
• Summer can be hot and humid, but early mornings offer a refreshing start to the day.
• Winter is cooler and quieter, suitable for travelers who enjoy a calmer atmosphere.

Festivals & Events: During Tet (Lunar New Year), the Ba Dinh area around the lake becomes livelier with cultural activities. Visitors can combine a walk around the lake with stops at nearby attractions like West Lake, which is part of the hanoi lake area.

Photography Tips:

• Arrive 30–45 minutes before sunset for the best light.
• The middle section of Thanh Nien Street offers the perfect spot to capture both Truc Bach Lake and West Lake in one frame.
• Use the reflection of the temples and trees on the water to add depth to your shots.

5. How to Get to Truc Bach Lake

6. Nearby Attractions to Combine with Truc Bach Lake

7. Conclusion

Whether you come for its history, peaceful landscapes, or unique cuisine, Truc Bach Lake is a must-see in Hanoi. From autumn sunsets to spring blossoms, every season reveals a different charm, with nearby attractions like Tran Quoc Pagoda and Long Bien Bridge just minutes away. Exploring the lake with Vietpower Travel ensures you experience its highlights, local flavors, and cultural depth in one seamless journey. Add Truc Bach Lake to your Hanoi Lake itinerary for a memorable and authentic Vietnam travel experience