As Ha Noi’s largest freshwater lake, West Lake has a circumference of 17km and is home to numerous historical sites of interest, including Tran Quoc pagoda, the oldest pagoda in Viet Nam, and Tran Vu temple, one of the four sacred temples in the ancient capital.

The lake attracts locals and tourists alike who seek respite from the busy city, providing a sanctuary of natural beauty with plenty of quiet spots in the surrounding gardens.

The area boasts a number of architectural highlights, in addition to restaurants, entertainment venues, high-end hotels and craft villages.

The workshop featured dozens of speeches by scientists and managers, giving an in-depth insight into the lake’s natural features, climate and ecosystem. The participants brainstormed ideas for conserving the value of the lake in future, especially with support from members of the public.

Recognition as a national scenic attraction is in line with the socio-economic and cultural development of Ha Noi and Tay Ho district in particular, Prof. Vu Hoan said, adding that a number of policy recommendations for planning and management were also put forward during the event.

The actual creation of West Lake remains a mystery, though according to a legend it was formed after a battle between King Lac Long Quan and a nine-tail fox spirit, which is why the lake was once called “ Dam Xac Cao ” (Fox Corpse Swamp).

Another folktale refers to the lake as “ Ho Trau Vang ” (Golden Buffalo Lake) because it was created by the struggle of a buffalo after the disappearance of her calf.