Chasing the Golden Hour on Tay Ho
West Lake (Tay Ho) is the largest freshwater lake in Hanoi, and its 17km shoreline is the city's favorite playground. But it is during the 'Golden Hour'—just as the sun begins to dip below the horizon—that the lake truly reveals its beauty.
Best Viewpoints for Sunset
1. Tran Quoc Pagoda
The oldest pagoda in Hanoi sits on a small island on the lake. Watching the sun set behind its eleven-story red stupa is one of the most iconic sights in Vietnam.
2. Thanh Nien Road
The 'Road of Love' separates West Lake from the smaller Truc Bach Lake. It's a favorite spot for locals to park their bikes, grab a coconut, and watch the sky change colors.
3. The North Shore Cafes
The northern side of the lake is home to trendy, high-end cafes with unobstructed views. It's the perfect place for a romantic cocktail as the city lights begin to flicker on.
The Sunset Drive Experience
Riding around the lake in an open-air Vintage Jeep is the ultimate way to enjoy the breeze and the view. We time our tours perfectly to reach the best viewpoints just as the sky turns orange and purple.