RUN AROUND THE MYTHICAL WEST LAKE HANOI – 15K

Our run begins at the historic Quan Thanh Temple, a revered place of worship dedicated to the deity who protected the city from invading Northern forces. And who is this deity, you may ask? Along the way, you’ll hear the fascinating story behind this deity and discover how the Western and Eastern cultures are intertwined in unexpected ways.

Our next stop takes us to Truc Bach Lake, where a fateful event took place when an American plane was shot down. You’ll hear the inspiring story of a young pilot who was captured but later returned home to fight for peace. This pilot went on to become a prominent figure in America and was loved by many Vietnamese people.

Next, we’ll take a scenic run along Youth Street, which is surrounded by tranquil lakes on both sides. You’ll learn about the history behind this street and how it got its name. And as we run, we’ll pass by the beautiful Tran Quoc Pagoda (Chua Tran Quoc), where you can admire the epitome of Buddhist architectural elegance.

Then we will visit the Golden Buffalo Temple (Den Kim Nguu), which holds a captivating legend about a baby buffalo who came down from the North in search of its mother. But beyond this intriguing tale lies a deeper history of the thriving bronze casting industry that once made Vietnam proud.

We’ll soon arrive at the West Lake Temple (Phu Tay Ho), which shares its name with the famous lake. This temple has its own unique story to tell, revealing the fascinating way that ancient people used poems as a form of communication. This art form was incredibly popular centuries ago.

A run around West Lake is a journey through history, dotted with temples, pagodas, and other historical landmarks. Some serve as reminders of the past, while others hold stories passed down through generations, each one rich with cultural significance. It’s a run that not only offers fresh air and exercise, but a chance to delve deeper into the cultural heritage of Hanoi.

So come join us on this unique and enlightening run and experience the best of what the city has to offer!