Ly Thai To Statue & Park, Hanoi

Park and Statue in Hanoi

Ly Thai To Statue Park
Ly Thai To Statue Park
CC BY-SA 4.0 / The Hanoian

Ly Thai To Statue & Park sits on the eastern edge of Hoan Kiem Lake, offering a peaceful public space that blends history, daily life, and scenic beauty. Dedicated to Ly Thai To, the founding king of the Ly Dynasty, the park celebrates the ruler who transformed a small settlement into Thang Long-modern-day Hanoi. With its shaded benches, open square, and lakeside views, this is a great place to relax while connecting with the city's storied past.

The statue honours a king remembered for ushering in a peaceful transition of power and a new golden age. The park is a highlight of any walking tour of Hanoi, especially for visitors looking to balance historical insight with calm, open-air surroundings.

History and Significance of Ly Thai To Statue & Park

Ly Thai To, born in 974, rose from modest origins to become a central figure in Vietnamese history. Supported by the influential Buddhist monk Van Hanh, he quickly climbed the political hierarchy during a period when Buddhism shaped both spiritual and political life in Đại Việt. His intelligence, charisma, and strategic alliances positioned him as a trusted military leader.

In 1009, after the sudden death of the reigning king, Ly Thai To ascended to the throne through a remarkably peaceful transfer of power-a rarity in early dynastic history. His reign became synonymous with stability, growth, and cultural flourishing. One of his greatest legacies was the relocation of the capital to Thang Long. While legend tells of a cloud shaped like a flying dragon inspiring his decision, practical factors likely played a stronger role: Hanoi’s central location, access to trade routes, and favourable terrain for economic expansion.

The statue in today's park commemorates this monumental shift in Vietnamese history. Set against the backdrop of Hoan Kiem Lake, it symbolizes both the king's vision and the symbolic birth of modern Hanoi.

Things to See and Do in Ly Thai To Statue & Park

Visitors can admire the imposing bronze statue of Ly Thai To, which depicts the king holding the royal decree that officially established Thang Long as the capital. The beautifully landscaped park surrounding the statue features trees, flowerbeds, and open space, making it ideal for casual strolls, morning exercise, or peaceful afternoon breaks.

The square in front of the statue is a favourite spot for cultural performances, community gatherings, and occasional festivals. Many visitors enjoy watching locals practice tai chi, children playing, or couples taking photographs with the lake shimmering in the background. From this vantage point, you also get a lovely view of Hoan Kiem Lake’s greenery and the nearby Jade Islet.

How to Get to Ly Thai To Statue & Park

The park is located on the eastern side of Hoan Kiem Lake, easily accessible from Dinh Tien Hoang Street. Travellers arriving by air will land at Noi Bai International Airport, about 30 kilometres north of the city centre. For the best deals and a seamless booking experience, check out these flights to Hanoi on Booking.com.
Those arriving by train can reach the park from Hanoi Railway Station with a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk through the French Quarter. Train schedules and bookings can be found on Omio.
By car, the park is straightforward to reach and sits close to major roads around Hoan Kiem Lake. Traffic can be busy, but drop-off areas are located nearby.

Practical Tips on Visiting Ly Thai To Statue & Park

  • Suggested tips: Visit early in the morning to see locals exercising by the lake.
  • Best time to visit: Late afternoon or early evening for gentle light and cooler temperatures.
  • How long to spend: 20-30 minutes, longer if relaxing by the lake.
  • Accessibility: The park is flat with wide paths, suitable for most visitors.
  • Facilities: Seating areas, nearby cafés, and public amenities around Hoan Kiem Lake.
  • Photography tip: Position yourself slightly to the side of the statue to capture both the king and the lake behind him.
  • Guided tours: Included in several Hanoi city and heritage walking tours.
  • Nearby food options: Many cafés, ice cream shops, and restaurants line the lake and nearby streets.

Where to Stay close to Ly Thai To Statue & Park

Staying near Hoan Kiem Lake offers great access to the park and surrounding attractions. For luxury charm, consider Apricot Hotel. A popular mid-range choice nearby is Hanoi Pearl Hotel. Travellers seeking boutique comfort may enjoy La Siesta Classic Hang Thung.

Is Ly Thai To Statue & Park Worth Visiting?

Yes, Ly Thai To Statue & Park is absolutely worth visiting. Its blend of historical symbolism, lakeside scenery, and everyday local life makes it a refreshing and meaningful stop in central Hanoi. Whether you're learning about the first Ly Dynasty king or simply enjoying the open space, the park provides a peaceful and culturally rich experience.

What Other Travellers Say...

Reviews Summary

4.7 (44)

Ly Thai To Garden, on the edge of Hoàn Kiếm Lake in Hanoi's Old Quarter, is a leafy public square with wide open spaces, benches and flower beds centered around the Monument of King Ly Thai To and an octagonal French‑era trumpet house; visitors praise its convenient location for combining a stroll with nearby attractions, its relaxed atmosphere for morning walks, exercise or street performances, and frequent use for festivals and cultural events, though it can get crowded and occasionally noisy on weekends and some areas show wear or need better maintenance with limited nearby parking.

Chinh Nguyen
5 months ago
"Nestled in the heart of Hanoi, Ly Thai To Garden is a peaceful escape just steps away from the busy Old Quarter. With its wide open space, lushtrees, and views overlooking Hoan Kiem Lake, it’s a favorite spot for locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re enjoying a morning stroll, watching street performances, or simply sitting on a bench soaking in the city’s rhythm, this garden offers a calm and charming break from the hustle...."
DORIS ANG
a month ago
"A square for exercise and escape from hectic morning traffic. This place reminds me of sim city statues that raise land value of nearby commercialarea...."
Sinh Sắc Nguyễn
3 months ago
"Dirty"

FAQs for Visiting Ly Thai To Statue & Park

Yes, the park is open to the public at all hours.
Yes, it is a popular place for photography.
It can be busy on weekends, but weekday mornings are calm and pleasant.

Nearby Attractions to Ly Thai To Statue & Park

The Ly Thai To Statue & Park appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Hanoi!

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Planning Your Visit

Address: Ly Thai To Monument Hall, Phố Lê Lai, French Quarter, Trang Tien, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi, Vietnam
Hanoi: 2 km
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