Hoa Lu Old Town & Ky Lan Lake

A newly built old-style quarter around Ky Lan Lake in Ninh Binh city, at its best in the evening when the towers and lanterns light up.

Ninh Binh
Updated October 2026

About Hoa Lu Old Town

Hoa Lu Old Town is a modern development in the centre of Ninh Binh city, built in the style of an old Vietnamese town around Ky Lan Lake and Mount Ky Lan. It is not a historic site – the ancient capital of Hoa Lu is 12 km away – but it has become the city’s evening meeting place.

After dark the pagoda-style towers, bridges and lanterns are lit and reflected in the lake, small boats take visitors across the water, and there are cafés, food stalls and, on some evenings, music and performances.

What to do at Hoa Lu Old Town

Walk round the lake, take a short boat ride to see the lights from the water, and eat at one of the restaurants around the square. It is an easy add-on if you stay overnight in Ninh Binh city.

Worth it?

Why visit Hoa Lu Old Town & Ky Lan Lake?

Lantern-lit eveningsTowers and bridges reflected in Ky Lan Lake after dark.
Boat on the lakeA short ride to see the lights from the water.
In the cityEasy to reach if you stay in Ninh Binh city.

Make the most of it

3 best things to do in Hoa Lu Old Town & Ky Lan Lake

Walk round Ky Lan Lake
About 30–45 minutes at an easy pace.
Take the evening boat
Short rides on the lake once the lights are on.
Eat goat and burnt rice
Ninh Binh’s local dishes are served in restaurants around the old town.

Map & directions

How to get to Hoa Lu Old Town & Ky Lan Lake

From Ninh Binh city hotelsMost central hotels are within a 5–10 minute taxi ride.
From Tam CocAbout 6 km, 15 minutes by taxi.

Local advice

Tips for visiting Hoa Lu Old Town & Ky Lan Lake

Do

Go after sunset, when the lights are on

Don’t

Do not confuse it with Hoa Lu Ancient Capital, the historic site 12 km away

Good to know